While many families enjoy a traditional holiday meal at home, others prefer a relaxed Christmas Day without the stress of cooking or cleaning. For travelers, essential workers, or anyone craving a warm meal out, several national restaurants keep their doors open, offering comfort food, festive dining, and a cozy atmosphere on December 25.
Because hours vary by location and franchise ownership, it’s always best to call ahead before heading out.
Below is a helpful guide to popular restaurants that commonly remain open on Christmas Day across the United States.
Restaurants Commonly Open on Christmas Day
Denny’s
Famous for being open 24/7 year-round, Denny’s is one of the most reliable places to get breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Christmas Day.
Waffle House
A true holiday standby, Waffle House rarely closes. Most locations operate normally on Christmas Day, offering hot waffles and diner classics.
IHOP
Many IHOP restaurants remain open on Christmas Day, though hours can vary. It’s a popular choice for pancakes, omelets, and late-day brunch.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
An upscale option for Christmas dining, many Ruth’s Chris locations accept Christmas Day reservations for a festive steakhouse dinner.
Benihana
Known for hibachi-style cooking, Benihana often welcomes guests on Christmas Day. Reservations are strongly recommended due to high demand.
Fogo de Chão
This Brazilian steakhouse chain frequently stays open on Christmas Day, offering a warm, celebratory dining experience with endless cuts of meat.
Starbucks
Many Starbucks stores open on Christmas Day, especially those inside busy plazas, airports, or travel centers, providing coffee and light bites.
Dunkin’
Dunkin’ locations inside gas stations and high-traffic areas often operate on Christmas Day, though hours differ by franchise.
Macaroni Grill
Many Romano’s Macaroni Grill restaurants open on Christmas Day and even offer special holiday menus at some locations.
Boston Market
Select Boston Market restaurants stay open and serve homestyle Christmas Day meals, with some offering dine-in or heat-and-serve bundles.
McDonald’s
While not universal, many McDonald’s locations open on Christmas Day depending on franchise owners. Availability varies widely.
Jack in the Box
Known for extended hours, many Jack in the Box restaurants remain open on Christmas Day.
Domino’s
Some Domino’s stores operate on Christmas Day, particularly in busy metro areas, though many locations close. Hours depend on local management.
Wendy’s
A smaller number of Wendy’s restaurants open on Christmas Day but availability depends heavily on the owner of each franchise.
Burger King
Certain Burger King locations open for limited hours on Christmas Day, especially in travel-heavy regions.
Chili’s
While most locations close, select Chili’s restaurants may operate on Christmas Day in specific markets.
Panda Express
Many Panda Express locations inside malls or airports are open on Christmas Day, though standalone stores may close.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
Some Fleming’s locations open for Christmas Day dining, typically featuring special holiday menu offerings.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Several Perkins locations remain open on Christmas Day, offering breakfast favorites and bakery desserts.
Huddle House
Known for 24/7 operations, many Huddle House restaurants remain open throughout Christmas Day.
Why Dining Out on Christmas Day Works
Cozy restaurants offer a stress-free holiday option for families wanting to relax, travelers passing through unfamiliar cities, or anyone choosing a non-traditional celebration. Whether you want festive steakhouse dining, all-day breakfast, or coffee on the go, these national chains help make Christmas Day warm, simple, and delicious.
Just remember: always confirm hours with your local restaurant, as openings vary widely by region and ownership.
