These Restaurants Will Be Open on New Year's Day, So You Can Start 2021 off Right
If there's one thing that's essential for kicking off the new year, it's some good food (and lots of champagne, of course). That's why you might be looking to start 2021 by getting delivery or eating out at the best spots — and lucky for you, we've rounded up all of the restaurants open on New Year's Day 2021. Whether you're craving a delicious New Year's brunch in the morning or need a quick pick-me-up to get started on those New Year's resolutions, these family-friendly restaurants and fast food chains are definitely worth it on January 1.
This year, you should keep in mind that holiday hours may look a little different due to COVID-19. This means that some restaurants may be curbside or delivery only, while others may have limited dine-in options. Since COVID restrictions and holiday hours vary from place to place, it's best — as always — to check your local restaurant's hours before heading out. And if you're looking to get some shopping done after some good bites (and some fun New Year's traditions), be sure to check out our list of all the stores open on New Year's, too.
Applebee's
Sip on Applebee's Neighborhood Drink of the Month to celebrate the first day of the year — select Applebee's restaurants will stay open for New Year's Day, though hours may be reduced and may vary by location.
Buca di Beppo
There's nothing like some good Italian food to kick-start your New Year's. Thankfully, Buca di Beppo locations will be open at 11 a.m. on New Year's Day (and will also be open until 10 p.m. on New Year's Eve). If you're planning on dining in, be sure to reserve your table here.
Carl's Jr.
If your mouth is watering for a plate of onion rings or maybe some "crisscut" fries, Carl's Jr. locations will be open on January 1, though holiday hours will vary by location.
Chick-Fil-A
Good news if you're craving a Deluxe chicken sandwich: Most Chick-Fil-A locations will be open for both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day! Restaurants will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m on January 1, but since hours vary by location, it's best to check with your closest Chick-Fil-A.
Chili's
Get your chips and salsa fix at Chili's — most locations should be open on New Year's Day, though hours may vary depending on location (so make sure to call ahead!). What pairs well with salsa? Their Margarita of the Month, of course.
Cracker Barrel
After the Christmas craziness passes, Cracker Barrel resumes normal operating hours, which means you can cure your champagne blues with biscuits and gravy.
Denny's
Looking to feast on a satisfying New Year's brunch? You can count on Denny's to deliver a Grand Slam after plenty of celebrations on New Year's Eve. The chain is open 24/7, 365 days a year.
Domino's
If you believe that your first meal of 2021 should be an indulgent one, then order a pizza from your local Domino's and call it a day. Opt for delivery if you're feeling too lazy to drive.
Dunkin' Donuts
The best way to start 2021 is with coffee — and lots of it. Most Dunkin' Donuts locations will be open on New Year's Day, so stop by for your morning brew and Munchkins. Hours may vary depending on location, though, so be sure to check ahead before going on your local Dunkin' run.
Fogo De Chão
Because why wouldn't you want to start off the new year with the full churrasco experience? Most Fogo De Chão locations will be open on January 1 (and are even offering to-go options).
Hardee's
This popular fast food chain should be open for New Year's, but be sure to check before you go for a biscuit in the morning — since holiday hours are decided upon by the franchise owners.
IHOP
Celebrate all that the new year brings with a massive stack of fresh pancakes, since most IHOP locations will be open on the first day of 2021. Psst, if you sign up to for the restaurant's MYHOP membership, you can start the year with free pancakes!
KFC
Want to start 2020 off by finally trying out the new fried chicken sandwich? Head to KFC for some finger lickin' good food on New Year's. The majority of KFC locations generally stay open for the first of January — but reduced hours may apply for the holiday, so be sure to check your local listings.
Maggiano's
Whether you prefer spaghetti or meatballs (or both!), visit this Italian-American restaurant for lunch or dinner, as most locations should be open for New Year's. Hours may vary depending on location, so be sure to check with your local restaurant.
McDonald's
First comes New Year's Eve parties. Then comes the post-party McFlurry. Most McDonald's locations across the U.S. keep their doors open on New Years Day, but hours will vary by location, so make sure to give your local chain a call before you hop in the car.
Morton's Steakhouse
Cheers to the new year with a glass of bubbly and decadent steak dinner at Morton's Steakhouse. This popular steak spot is open on New Year's Day — and reservations can be made at select locations that are open for dine-in.
Olive Garden
Let the family time continue at Olive Garden, where you can fill up on unlimited salad and breadsticks. Our favorite Italian spot will be open for regular hours on New Year's Day. Plus, if you sign up for the e-club, you can score a free appetizer or dessert when you buy two entrees.
Panda Express
Chinese food on New Year's Day? Sounds like a plan. Make a trip to your nearest Panda Express, which operates on normal restaurant hours, to fill up on fried rice, lo mein and all your other favorite Chinese dishes.
Panera Bread
Craving a warm and cozy bread bowl to kick off the new year? You're in luck: Many Panera Bread locations will be open on New Year's Day (but be sure to check your local restaurant's hours).
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Ruth's Chris Steak House will be open for regular hours on both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day — because nothing should stand in the way between you and your steak. You can reserve your table here, or place a take-home order online.
Sonic
This drive-in restaurant should have many of its locations open for January 1. Many locations are franchised and do not have a set holiday schedule, however, so be sure to check your local drive-in before you swing by for a hot dog.
Starbucks
Peppermint mocha season only lasts so long. You know what that means: It's time to head to Starbucks for your caffeine fix. The coffee chain’s hours will vary by location, though, so be sure to check your local store's hours.
Subway
If you're looking for a tasty sandwich on January 1, you should know that Subway's hours will vary on New Year's, as all Subway restaurants are independently owned and operated. You can check your local Subway's hours via the Subway App or with the website's store locator.
Taco Bell
Tacos are an essential in the new year, obviously! Luckily, most Taco Bell locations will be open on January 1, though hours may be limited — which means you should call ahead to your nearest location before heading out to satisfy your taco cravings.
The Cheesecake Factory
If you're pining for a slice of Vanilla Bean (or maybe an Ultimate Red Velvet) to start off 2021, good news — Cheesecake Factory locations will be open on New Year's Day.
Waffle House
Wondering if Waffle House is open on New Year's this year? A large majority of the restaurant's locations are still open 24/7 (including on holidays) as per tradition, but some locations will have limited hours or may offer only to-go services — so it's best to check your local Waffle House's hours.
Wahlburgers
This restaurant will be open for New Year's Day, so you can start your year off on the right foot, aka with a delicious gourmet burger in your mouth. Plus, you can snag some free tots when you join the Wahlburgers rewards program.
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