Veterans Day Free Meals: Where Veterans and Active Duty Service Members Can Dine for Free in 2025

Disclaimer: The offers listed below are based on past Veterans Day discounts and may not be finalized for 2025. We’ll update this article as restaurants confirm their 2025 offers closer to November 11.

Each year, restaurants across the country show appreciation for those who served by offering free meals and special discounts on Veterans Day. While offers vary by location and verification requirements, the following sit-down restaurants have consistently participated in these programs and are likely to continue doing so in 2025.

Applebee’s has served millions of free meals to Veterans and active duty military members over the years. They typically offer a free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu with proof of service. It’s one of the longest-running national programs, dating back to 2008.

Bob Evans often celebrates Veterans Day by offering a selection of homestyle breakfast options free of charge. Their long-standing commitment to the military community also includes year-round discounts and support of Veteran-related charities.

Chili’s is known for its family-friendly dining and Veterans Day menu, which includes classics such as chicken crispers, burgers, and fajitas. The company has a consistent track record of participating nationwide, making it one of the most reliable stops for free meals each year.

Olive Garden typically offers a complimentary entrée from a select menu to all Veterans and active-duty service members. Many locations also offer a 10% military discount throughout the year, demonstrating their ongoing support beyond Veterans Day.

Red Robin has offered free gourmet burgers to Veterans in past years, an especially popular deal that often draws large turnouts. The brand also participates in community initiatives supporting Veterans and first responders.

TGI Friday’s often celebrates Veterans Day with free entrées and appetizers for those who served. Some locations also offer bonus discounts for families dining together, promoting togetherness on a day of national gratitude.

Texas Roadhouse frequently honors Veterans by hosting a free lunch on November 11. Many locations even open early to serve meals, with staff volunteering their time to show appreciation for service members.

54th Street has built a reputation in the Midwest for generous Veterans Day deals, typically offering a free entrée up to a specific value. The chain also extends year-round military appreciation discounts at select locations.

Golden Corral hosts its famous “Military Appreciation Night” every Veterans Day, offering complimentary dinner buffets to Veterans and active-duty military personnel. Since the tradition began in 2001, the chain has served more than six million free meals.

Denny’s has made its “Build Your Own Grand Slam” breakfast free for Veterans for several years, served during morning hours on Veterans Day. It’s one of the most recognized and accessible promotions nationwide.

For many service members and their families, Veterans Day isn’t just a chance to grab a free meal; it’s a reminder of the bond that connects those who serve. Dining out at these restaurants often becomes a small but meaningful celebration of shared service and sacrifice.

At AHRN, we see those moments as part of a much bigger story. Whether you’re transitioning to civilian life, preparing for your next PCS move, or exploring the benefits of a VA home loan, these national gestures of gratitude reflect the same spirit of support that drives our mission, helping military families find housing, stability, and connection wherever duty takes them.

We’ll refresh this article as soon as each restaurant confirms its 2025 Veterans Day promotions.