Don’t Want Dishes on Turkey Day? These Restaurants Are Open on Thanksgiving
As much as everyone loves a home-cooked Thanksgiving menu, we can all agree that preparing one takes a lot of time and effort. Ree Drummond firmly believes that the holiday is "supposed to be about spending time with family and friends," not stressing over the meal. And she's right—that would just defeat the purpose of the whole day! It's perfectly okay if you just want to go out instead. After all, coming up with the ultimate Thanksgiving shopping list is hard work! Or, perhaps you are cooking up a storm and simply need someone else to cover lunch. Whatever the case, you'll need to know if there are local restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day.
Well, we've got some good news: If you're thinking of taking a break from the kitchen this year, there are dozens of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in 2023 that will do all the cooking for you. Now, that's something to be grateful for! While there are some grocery stores open on Thanksgiving to pick up anything you might forget, doesn't it sound so much easier to just skip the giant grocery list altogether? Plus, many of the establishments we're sharing offer catering and delivery options, so you can still enjoy a family feast at home of either a classic or a non-traditional Thanksgiving menu. Your choice!
A word to the wise, though: Before heading to one of these restaurants open on Thanksgiving, it's always safe to call your local franchise, confirm their hours, and make reservations if needed.
Applebee's
You can eat good in the neighborhood this Thanksgiving by stopping at your closest Applebee's. Choose from dine-in and carryout options, but make sure to call ahead for hours—they vary by location, according to an Applebee's representative.
Bob Evans
Bob Evans is known for its delicious Thanksgiving feast every year, and 2023 is no different. It's not surprising either—they offer a slow-roasted turkey every day as it is! You can have your entire dinner catered by Bob Evans by calling ahead of time and choosing from their delicious pies and sides, in addition to the bird.
Boston Market
Even though they're known for their rotisserie chickens, Boston Market is here to cater your Thanksgiving dinner too! Either stop by the restaurant or order carryout for a delicious turkey feast, complete with sides and dessert. Menu and hours vary by location.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Craving wings this Thanksgiving instead of turkey? You might be able to head to your nearest Buffalo Wild Wings, but hours will vary by location.
Buca di Beppo
There's nothing wrong with a little Italiano this Thanksgiving Day. Lucky for you, Buca di Beppo will be serving a turkey dinner that you can take home to heat and serve for your family.
Chart House
Chart House is always a great choice for a holiday dinner because of their delicious menu offerings that include steaks, seafood, and more. Check with your local restaurant for their exact hours and to make a reservation.
Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel is known for its home-cooked comfort food—and Thanksgiving is no exception. This popular chain has a few options to choose from for your Turkey Day feast. You can have a full meal catered to bring home and serve, or you could pick up a few key items like one of their delicious pies. Your family can also dine-in and enjoy a delicious turkey dinner!
Del Frisco's Grille
Looking for a classy evening? Enjoy dinner at Del Frisco's Grille this Thanksgiving. The restaurant offers a three-course traditional turkey dinner.
Denny's
Denny's is a popular spot for Thanksgiving, whether you want to do dine-in or take-out. In previous years, the diner chain offered a carryout "Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Pack." It includes everything you need for a delicious family of four Thanksgiving dinner—you just need to heat and serve.
Domino's
A personal-sized pizza might hit the spot before heading out for your Black Friday shopping. Domino's franchises are independently owned, so they may be open on Thanksgiving, but hours will vary by location.
Dunkin'
America runs on Dunkin'... even on Thanksgiving! Start your morning with coffee and donuts before the big feast. Some locations will have limited hours, so be sure to check before making the trip.
Fogo de Chão
Just like every year, Fogo de Chão will be open for Thanksgiving. The Brazilian steakhouse will be serving a special Turkey Day menu in addition to their usual fare.
Golden Corral
You can head to Golden Corral's popular buffet this year to enjoy your favorite Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. They also offer a heat-and-serve option to bring home if that's what you're after.
IHOP
If you want to completely overhaul the usual Thanksgiving fare, a trip to IHOP sounds like a sweet option. You can satisfy your flapjack cravings, sincee the International House of Pancakes will be open for Turkey Day, according to a representative. Just double check with your local restaurant about their holiday hours.
Kona Grill
Most Kona Grill locations will be open and serving up their fantastic seafood, steak, and chops entrees. Don't forget to grab a tasty cocktail!
Maggiano's Little Italy
Craving your turkey dinner with an Italian twist? Then head to Maggiano's this Thanksgiving. The restaurant offers three Turkey Day options, including catering, carryout, and dine-in.
McDonald's
Feel free to feast on a Big Mac and fries this Thanksgiving because most McDonald's should be open. However, you'll want to check with your closest branch as hours may vary by location.
Metro Diner
Head over to Metro Diner for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, whether you want to dine in or take out! If you're getting their feast for Thanksgiving day, you'll need to order in advance, so be sure to check the pre-order deadline.
Popeyes
Not only can you get your go-to meal from Popeyes Louisiana kitchen come Thanksgiving, but you can also grab their fan favorite Cajun-style turkey for delivery or pick-up. Then, all you have to do is reheat and serve!
Red Lobster
Got a craving for seafood? You can head to Red Lobster to get your fill of fish... plus those delectable biscuits. Most locations will be open for dine-in and t0-go service but be sure to check with your local restaurant.
Romano's Macaroni Grill
This popular Italian restaurant offers a three-course Thanksgiving dinner, and a carryout option so you could serve up a big feast at home. Call up your local Romano's Macaroni Grill and see what their hours will be this year and whether you can order a precooked meal in advance.
Ruby Tuesday
Burgers, seafood, steaks, pasta—you name it, you can get it at Ruby Tuesday! Please even the pickiest eaters by heading here for the holiday. Most locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day for both dine-in and to-go orders.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
There are several ways to enjoy Ruth's Chris Steak House this Thanksgiving. You can have a take-home feast that includes every delicious part of the Thanksgiving menu ready for you to heat and serve. Or, you can choose to dine-in and enjoy a delicious three-course turkey dinner.
Seasons 52
The fresh grill and wine bar is open every day except for Christmas! Seasons 52 offers a traditional holiday dinner on Thanksgiving day. Call ahead to check your local restaurant's hours.
Starbucks
It's a no-brainer that you'll need a good caffeine fix come Thanksgiving morning. How else will you power through putting all those sides together?! You can fill your Starbucks order this Thanksgiving as stores will be open—just call ahead to your local branch to see about their hours.
Subway
Subway makes it easy to serve up some sandwiches on November 23! Just be sure to call your local store before heading out. Many locations will be open, but not all of them.
T.G.I. Fridays
Most T.G.I. Fridays locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day—just call ahead and make sure the one near you is! Enjoying a plate of potato skins sounds pretty darn good on Turkey Day.
STK Steakhouse
Every one of the chic STK steakhouse locations will be open nationwide on Thanksgiving. If you don't plan on stopping by for a hearty dinner, at least grab a drink at the lounge.
Waffle House
As many know, Waffle House stays open 365 days a year. That means you can get your favorite breakfast dishes on Turkey Day, whether it's before or after you feast.
Wendy's
Craving a Frosty before you dig in to your array of Thanksgiving desserts? Wendy's will be open for all your snack or burger needs. You might want to call ahead though to check the hours of your nearest branch.
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