25 Food Places Open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve 2026

Christmas dinner doesn’t always go according to plan. Maybe the oven stops working, your family wants something different, or you simply prefer celebrating without cooking. Fortunately, several restaurant chains may offer dining or takeout during the holidays.

This article explores 25 potential food places open on Christmas, covering everything from breakfast favorites to special-occasion dinners, along with practical tips for checking availability before heading out.

1. 25 Food Places Open on Christmas

Wondering what food places are open on Christmas Eve? These 25 restaurant chains are worth checking.

Important: The restaurants below have offered holiday service at some locations in previous years, but their 2026 schedules are not yet confirmed across all locations. Opening hours, menus, and availability may vary.

Denny’s

A reliable holiday option awaits early risers and night owls looking for warm stacks of pancakes and bacon.

Operating around the clock across many cities, this diner chain traditionally keeps its doors open right through Christmas morning.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The $5.99 Everyday Value Slam provides two pancakes, one egg, and two bacon strips or sausage links, while buying a $25 holiday gift card yields an extra $5 bonus card.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Combine the $5 bonus card with your $5.99 Everyday Value Slam order on a separate ticket to virtually get a free breakfast platter during your next visit.

Waffle House

If you find yourself traveling late on Christmas night, 24-hour service makes this diner a dependable pit stop.

Generous plates of hash browns and waffles yield an iconic diner feature for hungry families on the road.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The signature All-Star Special stays priced under $12 without any holiday surcharges, offering waffles, two eggs, hash browns, toast, and choice of breakfast meat.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Ask to double your hash brown base for less than a dollar, then load it with all toppings (“scattered, smothered, and covered”) to turn a standard platter into two full meals for a tiny upgrade fee.

IHOP

Ordering French toast and fluffy pancake platters creates a festive breakfast favorite without adding any kitchen cleanup.

Select locations even feature seasonal gingerbread or cranberry pancakes throughout December.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Limited-time Stuffed French Toast BreakFEAST ($17.29) runs alongside a 20% discount on your entire first-time order placed through the mobile app.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Create a new account on the IHOP app right before ordering to instantly apply the 20% off promo code to high-ticket holiday platters like the BreakFEAST.

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery

For travelers searching for food places open on Christmas, this casual bakery offers a relaxed holiday meal with fresh fruit pies and savory omelets.

Warm baked goods and homestyle entrées make it ideal for family gatherings.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The Butterball Turkey & Dressing dinner is priced around $13.29 ($11.29 on the 55+ Senior Menu), and joining their free eClub unlocks an immediate 20% coupon code.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Sign up for the free MyPerkins eClub on your phone while sitting at the table to receive the 20% off coupon code instantly in your inbox before paying the bill.

Black Bear Diner

Select locations serve generous portions of homestyle comfort food alongside a special Christmas menu.

Slow-cooked pot roast and thick-cut steaks satisfy hungry holiday diners.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Multi-course Christmas Day specials feature slow-roasted Prime Rib ($26.99) or Roasted Turkey ($21.99), complete with soup or salad, corn bread, and pumpkin pie slices.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Order the complete multi-course holiday special for takeout, as the included soup, salad, corn bread, and pie slice make it easy to stretch one meal into two separate servings.

McDonald’s

A quick stop for hot coffee and breakfast sandwiches turns this drive-thru into a handy travel stop during long highway trips.

Golden fries and classic burgers provide quick fuel between family visits.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Daily app-exclusive promotions feature $1 Large Fries and Buy-One-Get-One for $1 Egg McMuffin deals running through the MyMcDonald’s Rewards app.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Link your payment card inside the app before ordering so you automatically collect reward points while stacking the $1 Large Fry deal on top of your drive-thru order.

Burger King

Located primarily near major commercial hubs, certain stores serve flame-grilled burgers to customers throughout Christmas Day.

Satisfying fast-food cravings becomes effortless with quick Whoppers and crispy onion rings.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The Royal Perks app features exclusive $6 Whopper Meal bundles and 2-for-$7 Mix and Match breakfast sandwiches.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Redeem your Royal Perks daily digital rewards spin inside the app before placing your order to score bonus crown points that can be redeemed for free soft-serve or small fries immediately.

Wendy’s

Hungry road-trippers often rely on these local drive-thrus for quick hot burgers and baked potatoes.

Fresh beef patties and signature frosty drinks make for a comforting pit stop.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Mobile app users can claim a free 6-piece Nugget with any $1 purchase or take $2 off any premium combo meal.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Buy a cheap item like a $1.19 small drink or Frosty to instantly trigger the free 6-piece Nugget deal, turning a quick snack into a full micro-meal for under $2.

Arby’s

Slow-roasted beef sandwiches and curly fries offer a hearty fast-food alternative to standard holiday cooking.

Piled-high meats and savory horsey sauce keep road trips flavorful.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The 2 for $6 Classic Roast Beef Sandwiches promo runs alongside a 25% discount on total mobile orders for new Arby’s Rewards sign-ups.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Combine the 2 for $6 mix-and-match menu with the 25% new member mobile sign-up discount to get two roast beef sandwiches for just $4.50 total.

Subway

Customizable wraps and fresh subs provide a refreshing meal alternative for diners seeking a lighter option on Christmas Day.

Build-your-own salads and toasted footlongs cater easily to individual tastes.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Using active app promo codes like FLBOGO unlocks a Buy-One-Get-One 50% off offer on all footlong sub varieties.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Pair two high-value specialty footlong subs (like the Monster or Supreme Meats) under the BOGO 50% off promo code to maximize your total dollar savings per sub.

Starbucks

This chain is a popular choice among food places open on Christmas, serving seasonal lattes for travelers grabbing a morning coffee.

Peppermint mochas, eggnog lattes, and festive pastries add instant holiday cheer.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Purchasing seasonal handcrafted beverages via the mobile app earns members 50 Bonus Stars.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Order two short-sized seasonal drinks in a single order to trigger the 50 Bonus Stars threshold while spending less total cash than buying one Venti size.

Dunkin’

Many travelers start their Christmas morning by visiting a convenient doughnut shop for quick coffee and snacks.

Boxed coffee travelers and dozens of frosted doughnuts easily feed visiting relatives.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Dunkin’ Rewards members score $2 Medium Iced Coffees or $3 Holiday Lattes directly inside the app offer tab.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Activate the $2 Medium Iced Coffee offer inside your Dunkin’ app rewards tab before scanning your loyalty barcode at the register to ensure the discount applies.

Sonic Drive-In

Pulling into a drive-in stall offers fun carside dining with milkshakes, burgers, and tots for families on the go.

Retro carhop service brings extra charm to a casual holiday drive.

• Deal on Christmas Day: All drinks and slushes are half-price all day long strictly when ordered through the Sonic mobile app.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Order your drinks and route snacks through the app while parked in the stall to get 50% off Route 44 size drinks instead of paying full price at the red button speaker.

Del Taco

Craving fast Mexican-style dishes makes this chain a casual holiday option for last-minute meals.

Stuffed quesadilla tacos and loaded crinkle-cut fries satisfy late-night hunger.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Del Yeah! Rewards members receive two free Del Tacos with any $3 purchase on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Add a $3.19 Crinkle Cut Fry or medium drink to your cart to cross the $3 spending threshold and automatically unlock the two free Del Tacos.

Panda Express

Ordering orange chicken and fried rice provides a flavorful takeout choice when you want to skip traditional cooking.

Crispy Beijing beef and savory chow mein make feeding a family effortless.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The online Family Feast bundle (3 large entrées, 2 large sides) drops by $5 when applying holiday checkout promo codes.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Choose premium entrées like Honey Walnut Shrimp or Black Pepper Steak within your Family Feast deal to maximize the overall value of the $5 off promo code.

Benihana

Chefs prepare interactive teppanyaki meals right at guest tables, providing an exciting dining alternative for family gatherings.

Flashing knives, hibachi flames, and tender filet mignon create a memorable celebration.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Purchasing $50 in holiday gift cards online yields a complimentary $10 promotional bonus card.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Buy your $50 gift card bundle online a day prior so you can immediately use the $10 promo bonus card toward appetizers or drinks during your Christmas dinner.

Buca di Beppo

Generous family-style portions of pasta and pizza create an ideal Italian feast for larger groups celebrating together.

Giant meatballs and baked ziti bring rich comfort to the holiday table.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Celebration Packages start at $12.99 per person for pasta, salad, and bread, or $20.99 per person for a full pasta and chicken entrée package.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Book the $12.99 per person package for catering or dine-in, as their massive family-style pasta portions easily leave enough leftovers for lunch the next day.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

Comforting pasta dishes and warm bread support a relaxed sit-down dinner during the holiday weekend.

Penne rustica and rosemary peasant bread make every holiday meal feel cozy.

• Deal on Christmas Day: A 3-course Christmas Prix-Fixe Menu is offered at around $34.99 per adult, including starter, signature pasta or steak, and dessert.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Select high-tier main choices like the Grilled Ribeye or Porcini Crusted Tenderloin on the $34.99 prix-fixe menu to get nearly double the value compared to ordering à la carte.

Domino’s

Checking the mobile ordering app allows pizza fans to secure convenient delivery options when home plans fall through.

Hot cheesy pizzas and oven-baked wings offer easy holiday comfort.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The classic $7.99 Carryout Deal gives you any 3-topping pizza or 8-piece wings when ordered online for carryout.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Choose the carryout option for maximum savings, and select premium toppings like chicken, bacon, and extra cheese that usually cost significantly more à la carte.

Applebee’s

Neighborhood grills can be reliable food places open on Christmas, offering casual meals centered on burgers and steaks.

Riblets, sirloins, and festive neighborhood cocktails highlight the menu.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Seasonal $5 Mucho Cocktails (like Sleigh Bell Sips) run alongside the 2 for $25 Entrée Value Bundles.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Pair the 2 for $25 deal with two $5 Mucho Cocktails to get a full two-person dinner with alcoholic drinks for just $35 total.

Morton’s The Steakhouse

Booking a table at this upscale venue provides an elegant steakhouse dinner featuring prime cuts and fresh seafood.

Succulent lobster tails and center-cut filet mignon elevate any holiday gathering.

• Deal on Christmas Day: The multi-course Chateaubriand Holiday Feast package starts around $179 for two people, complete with a 36oz center-cut tenderloin roast and sides.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Reserve the $179 Chateaubriand package for two instead of ordering individual 8oz filets, saving over $40 while enjoying a much larger 36oz prime cut.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Sizzling butter-topped steaks and high-end sides offer a luxurious holiday celebration for families dining out.

Creamed spinach and USDA Prime steaks guarantee a memorable meal.

• Deal on Christmas Day: A seasonal 3-course Prix Fixe menu ranges from $60–$79 per person, featuring a starter, 6oz Filet with shrimp, side, and dessert.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Order the 3-course Prix Fixe menu to get the starter, entree, side, and dessert bundled for roughly the same price as buying just a standalone steak à la carte.

Chart House

Waterfront views paired with prime rib deliver a scenic holiday experience at select nationwide destinations.

Fresh local catches and lava cakes make for an unforgettable evening.

• Deal on Christmas Day: A specialized 3-Course Christmas Day Menu ($49–$65 per person) features slow-roasted Prime Rib, Citrus Salmon, and their signature Hot Lava Cake.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Select the Prime Rib option on the 3-course holiday menu to ensure your meal automatically includes the complimentary Hot Lava Cake dessert, which normally costs $14 on its own.

Hard Rock Cafe

Tourists visiting major city centers often rely on this venue for lively festive dining surrounded by rock memorabilia.

Legendary steak burgers and handcrafted cocktails bring upbeat energy to Christmas Day.

• Deal on Christmas Day: A limited-edition Holiday Dinner Menu ($32.95 per person) includes traditional slow-roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Show your AAA membership card or military ID at checkout to score an extra 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverage purchases, including the holiday menu.

Joe’s Crab Shack

For those searching for food places open on Christmas, seafood restaurants offer a casual alternative to traditional roast dinners, with buckets of steamed crab legs and shrimp.

Messy seafood boils and garlic bread bring fun to the holiday table.

• Deal on Christmas Day: Steampot Specials priced around $38.99 feature loaded snow crab, smoked sausage, corn, and potatoes cooked in garlic butter.
• Pro Tip to Maximize Deal: Join the Landry’s Select Club before dining to get a $25 welcome reward that can be applied directly to lower the cost of your Christmas Steampot Special.

2. Christmas Takeout vs. Dine-In? Which to Choose? 

Christmas dining can look different for every family, from picking up a ready-made feast to enjoying a full meal at a restaurant.

When comparing food places open on Christmas, consider your schedule, budget, group size, and how much convenience or holiday atmosphere matters to you.

Factor	Christmas Takeout	Christmas Dine-In
Convenience	Enjoy meals at home without cooking	No cooking or cleanup required
Atmosphere	Comfortable, private family setting	Restaurant ambiance and holiday decorations
Cost	May avoid certain dine-in expenses	May involve higher spending, especially at upscale restaurants
Waiting time	Pickup or delivery delays are possible	Waiting may occur without reservations
Menu options	Some dishes may be unavailable for takeout	Potential access to special holiday menus
Food quality	Certain dishes may cool during transportation	Meals are generally served immediately
Reservations	Usually unnecessary, but advance ordering may help	Often recommended or required
Best for	Families celebrating at home or travelers seeking convenience	Couples, groups, and families wanting a special outing

Takeout works well when you want a flexible meal without interrupting holiday activities.

Dine-in is often better for celebrating a special occasion, enjoying freshly prepared dishes, or avoiding cleanup altogether.

>>> Read More: Fast Food Open on Thanksgiving: 10 Reliable Places to Check

3. How Do You Confirm Holiday Restaurant Hours Before Ordering?

Holiday restaurant schedules can change even when a location normally operates seven days a week.

Before visiting any food places open on Christmas, follow these steps to avoid unexpected closures, unavailable menu items, or canceled delivery plans.

• Check the Restaurant’s Official Website: Use the official website or location finder to check holiday announcements and branch-specific hours, which may differ from regular schedules.
• Review the Restaurant’s Mobile App: Check the restaurant’s app or Google Maps listing for special holiday hours, but treat online information as a reference rather than a guarantee.
• Call the Restaurant Directly: Confirm opening hours, available dining services, special menus, and whether reservations are required.
• Check Delivery and Pickup Availability: Review separate service hours and confirm that the restaurant accepts orders for your address before placing an order.
• Confirm Again Before Leaving: Recheck operating hours shortly before your visit and keep an alternative restaurant in mind in case of unexpected closures.

4. Quick Questions about Food Places Open on Christmas

Finding somewhere to eat during Christmas can be more complicated than choosing a restaurant on an ordinary day.

These answers address common questions about holiday delivery, late-night dining, reduced hours, and locating nearby restaurants.

Can you order food delivery on Christmas?

Yes, food delivery may be available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day through participating restaurants and delivery services.

Delivery apps can also help you see which food places open on Christmas are accepting orders nearby, although restaurant availability, driver coverage, delivery fees, and waiting times can vary significantly by location.

Are restaurants open late on Christmas Eve?

Some restaurants remain open late on Christmas Eve, particularly certain diners, fast-food locations, and restaurants in busy travel areas.

Others close earlier than usual, so confirm the specific location’s holiday schedule before planning a late meal.

Do restaurants have shorter hours on Christmas?

Yes, many restaurants that remain open during Christmas operate reduced hours or offer limited menus.

Some locations may close entirely on Christmas Day, even when other branches of the same chain continue serving customers.

How can I find food places open near me on Christmas?

Search online maps or restaurant location finders for nearby restaurants and check their holiday hours.

Call the restaurant directly before visiting, since online listings may not always reflect last-minute schedule changes.

5. Final Thoughts

Christmas dining does not have to become complicated when cooking at home is not part of the plan. Food places open on Christmas can range from casual breakfast spots and takeout counters to restaurants offering a full holiday meal, but schedules often vary by location.

Confirm hours, menus, and reservation requirements before heading out. TAG Mobile also offers connectivity options that can make checking restaurant details, directions, and last-minute dining plans easier from your phone.