As Thanksgiving Day 2025 approaches, many Americans will gather around kitchen tables to savor home-cooked family meals, while others may seek the ease, comfort, and convenience of dining out instead. Fortunately, a broad selection of national chain restaurants and popular fast-food establishments will once again open their doors to guests who prefer not to cook—or who simply crave a familiar bite amid the holiday bustle. From family-style diners to upscale steakhouses, and from pancake houses to drive-thru classics, numerous eateries plan to offer traditional Thanksgiving dishes, alongside their beloved signature menus.
For those yearning for a warm, homestyle holiday experience, restaurants like Bob Evans and Cracker Barrel continue their long-standing tradition of presenting special Thanksgiving menus. Diners can expect comforting spreads featuring slow-roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory gravy, freshly baked dinner rolls, and, of course, the seasonal favorite—pumpkin pie. Both brands emphasize the importance of checking local hours, as opening and closing times may vary across regions.
Major fast-food giants such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s are also expected to keep many locations open on November 27. While they may not serve turkey dinners, their availability ensures that travelers, late-shift workers, or anyone seeking a quick alternative can grab burgers, fries, and other classics without disruption to their plans. This flexibility highlights the fast-food industry’s role in accommodating customers even on national holidays.
Business Insider reviewed a wide range of chain restaurants to identify those confirmed or anticipated to operate during Thanksgiving 2025. Some eateries will feature curated holiday menus that blend seasonal favorites with their customary selections, while others will stick to their standard offerings, catering to loyal guests who appreciate consistency. Still, customers are strongly advised to verify local participation, reserve tables in advance where possible, or confirm operating hours to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Applebee’s, for instance, may open select locations, offering everything from staple appetizers and burgers to more festive, Thanksgiving-inspired plates. Guests are encouraged to call ahead before arriving with family in tow. Similarly, Bravo! Italian Kitchen and Brio Italian Grille plan to welcome patrons with both dine-in and takeout options, serving meals that combine Italian culinary flair with traditional American holiday flavors—think roasted turkey, savory gravies, and sausage stuffing infused with herbs.
At Buca di Beppo, Thanksgiving will include a dedicated holiday meal, available either in the restaurant’s convivial family-style dining environment or through preorder for home enjoyment. For many, this Italian-inspired twist on Thanksgiving provides both abundance and variety, appealing to groups who value generous portions and lively hospitality.
Buffalo Wild Wings, a favorite for sports enthusiasts, expects to keep many of its restaurants open, allowing guests to enjoy their signature wings while tuning in to Thanksgiving football games. Burger King, ever the reliable fast-food option, reminds customers to check location-specific hours before pulling into the drive-thru.
For those seeking a more refined holiday outing, The Capital Grille will offer a prix fixe Thanksgiving menu—thoughtfully composed to include tender roasted turkey, delicate brioche stuffing, mashed potatoes, and buttery green beans with almonds, complemented by seasonal desserts such as sweet potatoes and pumpkin cheesecake. Similarly, high-end steakhouses like Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, and STK Steakhouse will open doors for guests eager to blend elegance with tradition. Their multi-course meals often feature roasted turkey, prime cuts, and side dishes reimagined with gourmet craftsmanship.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, synonymous with homestyle cooking, will once again invite diners to enjoy comforting plates of turkey, cornbread dressing, and sweet potato casserole enriched with pecans, concluding with a slice of pumpkin pie. Guests preferring a quiet meal at home can choose the chain’s heat-and-serve Thanksgiving feast, pre-prepared yet ready for easy finishing touches in the kitchen.
Casual dining staples like Denny’s and IHOP will also operate on Thanksgiving Day, perfect for early risers or late-night diners looking to enjoy stacks of pancakes or hearty turkey bundles without the pressure of cooking. Denny’s allows preorder options for take-home turkey meals, while IHOP continues to serve its beloved breakfast classics, reminding patrons to confirm hours beforehand.
Coffee enthusiasts need not skip their morning ritual—many Starbucks and Dunkin’ locations will remain open, albeit sometimes with reduced hours. For those craving dessert instead, Krispy Kreme will satisfy sweet-tooth traditions before closing early in the afternoon.
Seafood lovers aren’t left out either. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood and Fogo de Chão will each blend their brand’s signature gourmet approach with Thanksgiving-inspired dishes. Whether it’s a slow-roasted turkey adorned with elegant sides or flame-grilled meats accompanied by sweet potato casseroles, both promise festive dining in upscale settings. Golden Corral, the buffet favorite, provides guests the freedom to craft their perfect plate, whether dining in or ordering a full family feast to go.
Even around-the-clock establishments such as Waffle House and Whataburger stay true to their 24-hour tradition, offering guests reliable comfort meals throughout the day and night. From crispy waffles to thick burgers, these spots fulfill the Thanksgiving cravings of night owls and early travelers alike.
On the other end of the spectrum, certain restaurants—like Red Lobster—will close for the day, with the exception of the brand’s flagship in Times Square, providing one iconic New York venue for those in the city.
In short, whether you choose the nostalgic familiarity of homestyle dining, the excitement of modern casual fare, or the simple ease of fast food, Thanksgiving 2025 will present an extensive array of choices. From upscale dining rooms to quick-service counters, these restaurants ensure that gratitude and good food can be celebrated in whatever way best fits your holiday rhythm. Still, as every location operates under distinct guidelines and schedules, checking local hours or placing reservations remains the wisest course to guarantee a calm, satisfying, and delicious Thanksgiving experience.
Sourse: https://www.businessinsider.com/chain-fast-food-restaurants-open-thanksgiving-2025-11
