29 Restaurants That Are Open on Thanksgiving 2023, in Case You Want to Go Out
Don't want to cook this year? We don't blame you. You can still eat well.
There are two types of people: Those who love hosting Thanksgiving dinner, and those who volunteer to pick up ice on the way over. If your family cook is ready for a break this year, or maybe you just want to switch things up and go out to eat, pile up the crew and take them to one of these restaurants open on Thanksgiving. After all, you've planned the perfect Thanksgiving outfit, you might as well show it off! Think of all of the time and stress you'll save with someone else doing the planning, shopping, cooking, and cleaning. All you have to do is show up and eat! We have casual favorites (like Golden Corral) on this list, as well as some more upscale choices.
Want to enjoy Thanksgiving in your PJs? Then Thanksgiving takeout might be the way to go. If you're dining in or ordering carryout, be sure to plan ahead. Restaurants stay very busy on Thanksgiving, so reservations are recommended if possible. stores open on Thanksgiving and fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving.
Open: Golden Corral
Not only is Golden Corral open, but each year they put together a full Thanksgiving spread with turkey, pie, and all the trimmings, which you can also get to go.
Open: Waffle House
Waffles? On Thanksgiving? It may sound too good to be true, but that's exactly what Waffle House will be serving up. The chain is open 365 days a year.
Open: T.G.I. Friday's
Well, T.G. for this news! Most T.G.I. Friday's will be open on Turkey Day—but check ahead to make sure.
Open: Tony Roma's
In the mood for ribs instead of turkey? While you should still check your local Tony Roma's holiday hours, most of the chain's restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving Day, serving up their signature dishes.
Open: Fogo de Chão
For those who prefer steak over turkey on Thanksgiving, you're in luck. The Brazilian steakhouse will be open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. with new and traditional offerings like roasted turkey au jus, sweet potato casserole, Brazilian sausage, and apple dressing. Don't miss the new winter hummus topped with roasted butternut squash, pomegranate, and feta. Be sure to make a reservation in advance (kids 6 and under eat free!).
Open: Ruby Tuesday
Downing mozzarella sticks and devouring spinach artichoke dip sounds like an excellent way to spend Thanksgiving. At Ruby Tuesday, you can make it happen; most locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day for both dine-in and to-go orders. Be sure to call ahead and/or make reservations if you can!
Open: The Capital Grille
Place an order or make a reservation for a special chef-prepared dinner of Turkey with Brioche stuffing, French green beans with Marcona almonds, cranberry-pear chutney and mashed potatoes. Don't forget the Pumpkin Cheesecake!
Open: Popeyes
If you've tried their legendary chicken sandwich, you're aware this New Orleans-based chain knows their way around a bird. And if you're a fan, then not only can you eat there on Thanksgiving, but you can get a whole cajun-flavored turkey as well! It's pre-cooked, but you'll need to heat it up again in your own oven. Just give your nearest location a call ahead of time (or order online to have one shipped) to place the order—but don't wait. They do sell out.
Open: Subway
No, they won't have your traditional Thanksgiving fare...but you can snag some sliced turkey in your sub, at least! Be sure to check your local store; not all Subways will be open on Thanksgiving, but some will be.
Open: Buffalo Wild Wings
Many—but not all—Buffalo Wild Wings locations around the country will be open on Thanksgiving Day. You'll want to check with the closest one near you to confirm their particular hours. You'll be able to tune in to the big game while you're there!
Open: Metro Diner
Metro Diner has you covered whether you want to dine in or take it to go. Choose from specials like the Stuffing Waffle with Turkey, the Sausage & Gravy Chicken Tenders Waffle, or a more traditional holiday dinner. Locations are open until 2:30 on Thanksgiving Day.
Open: Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses
Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses have locations throughout the U.S., and their buffets will be open with roasted turkey, baked ham, fried chicken, meatloaf, shrimp, mac-and-cheese, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, fresh baked rolls, and dessert. They also offer to-go platters starting at $12. Check the restaurant locator to find hours and locations.
Open: Del Frisco's
If you're looking for a very fine wine-and-steak experience, Del Frisco's can deliver. Check their site—indoor dining is only available in certain locations. Then make your reservations, get your suit dry cleaned, and get ready for a culinary experience.
Open: Buca di Beppo
The celebrity-friendly Italian restaurant will have a special Thanksgiving menu. Make reservations on their website ahead of time.
Open: Marie Callender's
Hoping to enjoy all your Thanksgiving favorites without so much as lifting a finger—let alone turning on the oven? Head to Marie Callender's in Nevada or California, where you can pre-order and pick up a "Thanksgiving feast" complete with mains, sides, and dessert.
Open: STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouses nationwide will be open on Thanksgiving, delighting guests with their steaks, hearty sides, and more. Now, how to score a reservation?
Open: Applebee's
Select Applebee's restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving and will serve a special holiday menu. Others will have limited hours. You should call ahead to your local restaurant to be absolutely certain that they're open on the day-of!
Open: Ruth's Chris Steakhouse
Check locations to find which are open, but the famous steak house will have a special holiday feast on offer, along with their traditional menu.
Open: Sonic
Need a quick bite to eat? You can head over to Sonic and grab a burger and fries on your way to Grandma's. Just check your local location for their specific hours.
Open: IHOP
If you have a craving for pancakes on Thanksgiving morning, you might just be in luck. Treat yourself to one of the new holiday menu items, like cranberry-vanilla pancakes or a frozen hot chocolate milkshake. According to a spokesperson for IHOP, franchises will be open, but customers should call their local store to check its hours first.
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