25 Restaurants Open on Christmas 2024: Holiday Dining Guide

Christmas is a time for togetherness, celebration, and making lasting memories. For many, though, the idea of cooking an elaborate meal after weeks of holiday preparation can be more than a little overwhelming. Fortunately, dozens of popular restaurant chains remain open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in 2024, serving up comforting classics, festive treats, and convenient takeout meals, so you can enjoy the holiday on your terms. Whether you’re seeking a lavish Christmas dinner, a casual breakfast out, or simply want to skip the kitchen entirely, this guide covers 25 of the best national restaurants open this holiday season. Make sure to check local hours, as holiday openings can vary by location.

Why Dine Out on Christmas?

Whether you celebrate with family, friends, or prefer a quiet holiday, dining out on Christmas can simplify the festivities. Many restaurants offer special menus featuring seasonal favorites, stress-free service, and even takeout for at-home feasts. If you need a break from the oven, want to accommodate travelers, or just crave your favorite chain’s comfort food, exploring these dining options can make your day more enjoyable.

Which Chains Are Open on Christmas 2024?

Below you’ll find details on the top 25 national and regional restaurant chains with Christmas Eve and Day hours, plus what you can expect from their holiday offerings and service styles.

Restaurant Open/Closed Table

Spotlight on Popular Christmas Dining Chains

1. IHOP

If pancakes for Christmas breakfast are your tradition—or if you simply want to indulge—IHOP is here to serve. All locations plan to be open Christmas Eve and Day in 2024, although regional hours can vary. Try their Family Feasts for takeout, which include options such as pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Don’t forget a mug of hot chocolate to start your festivities. Always check your local hours before heading out.

2. Red Lobster

Red Lobster’s coastal-inspired menu makes for a unique Christmas treat. Most restaurants are open Christmas Eve and select locations will be open on Christmas Day—perfect for a seafood feast or takeout.

3. Applebee’s

Whether you’re after a festive lunch or a laid-back dinner, Applebee’s will keep doors open in many locations this Christmas. As a franchise, hours and openings can differ widely, so verify with your nearest Applebee’s before planning your meal.

4. Benihana

Add some excitement to your holiday meal with hibachi cooking, sushi rolls, and Japanese steakhouse flair at Benihana. Many locations stay open on both Christmas Eve and Day, though advance booking is highly encouraged due to holiday crowds.

5. Bonefish Grill

This popular seafood grill is closed on Christmas Day but open on Christmas Eve, offering an upscale yet relaxed holiday meal. Reservations are recommended.

6. Boston Market

Boston Market is a Christmas dining favorite thanks to its heat-and-serve options. These pre-prepared feasts can be ordered ahead of time and picked up for your at-home celebration, in addition to in-restaurant dining at select open locations.

7. Burger King

For those who crave a classic burger or a quick breakfast en route to holiday festivities, many Burger King locations will open on Christmas. Confirm with individual restaurants as franchise hours may change on holidays.

8. Chart House

Large groups will enjoy Chart House’s scenic settings and impressive selection of seafood and steakhouse favorites. Most locations are open Christmas Day with special menus or to-go options.

9. Cracker Barrel

While Cracker Barrel won’t serve on Christmas Day, you can pick up their heat-and-serve feast on Christmas Eve or enjoy their down-home cooking until 2pm. Simply heat at home and gather around the table for an easy, comforting meal.

10. Denny’s

A classic any time of year, Denny’s is famed for its 24/7/365 schedule. Whether you’re craving pancakes at dawn, turkey dinners at midday, or pie at midnight, odds are your local Denny’s will be open and ready for you.

11. Waffle House

Waffle House is legendary for never closing, serving hearty Southern breakfasts, burgers, and grits around the clock—including Christmas Day. It’s an especially popular choice for late-night diners and early risers alike.

Other Noteworthy Chains with Holiday Hours

• Del Taco: Open on Christmas Eve for Tex-Mex cravings, closed on Christmas Day.
• Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Perfect for a festive Christmas Eve Italian meal but closed Christmas Day.
• Chili’s: Open Christmas Eve for a spicy holiday dinner; closed on Christmas Day.
• Domino’s: Some locations serving up pizza, but confirm local hours for Christmas Day.
• Dunkin’: Grab a donut or seasonal coffee at participating locations open Christmas Day.
• Golden Corral: Some buffet locations open, featuring roast meats and holiday menu items.
• Huddle House: Many are open 24/7, including Christmas Day—great for a classic, casual meal.
• Macaroni Grill: Serving Italian classics on both Christmas Eve and Day (call for specific hours).
• Panda Express: Several locations, especially in metropolitan areas, open for quick Asian-inspired meals.
• Popeyes: Serving up fried chicken in select locations; always call ahead on holidays.
• Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Offers upscale dining and holiday menus—reservations strongly recommended.
• Shoney’s: Buffet and Southern classics in many areas are open Christmas Day.
• Starbucks: Many locations open for coffee and pastries; perfect for early risers or post-present caffeine fixes.
• IKEA Restaurant: Not open on Christmas Day but offers special treats Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve vs. Christmas Day Hours

Some restaurants opt to close on Christmas Day but provide meals or special services on Christmas Eve, with limited or shortened hours. Popular options include Italian, Tex-Mex, and breakfast-focused chains. Advance online orders, heat-and-serve meals for takeout, and curbside options are plentiful—ideal if you want to easily warm up a holiday dinner at home without hassle.

Tips for Dining Out or Ordering on Christmas

• Call ahead to confirm holiday hours; websites may not reflect special closures.
• Reserve early for restaurants that accept bookings, as tables fill quickly over the holidays.
• Consider takeout or heat-and-serve meals for at-home gatherings—these options are widely available from chains specializing in family platters and holiday-themed offerings.
• Check for special menus. Holiday offerings can include festive entrees, desserts, and limited-edition drinks.
• Be flexible with timing. Many restaurants operate reduced hours on Christmas Eve and Day.
• Be kind to staff, as restaurant workers are making your holiday brighter by working while many others are home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Christmas Dining

Is anywhere really open on Christmas Day?

Yes! Many chain restaurants like Denny’s, IHOP, Waffle House, Boston Market, and major hotels’ restaurants stay open for Christmas Day. Hours and services can vary, so check locally.

Are fast food options available on Christmas?

Some fast food chains—like Burger King, McDonald’s (at select locations), and Dunkin’—keep limited hours. Most franchises set their own schedules.

How do I order a holiday meal for takeout?

Several chains, such as Boston Market, Cracker Barrel, and Macaroni Grill, offer full heat-and-serve Christmas feasts available for pre-order and convenient pickup. Be sure to order several days in advance due to high demand.

Do I need a reservation to dine in on Christmas?

For full-service restaurants, especially upscale venues like Ruth’s Chris or Benihana, a reservation is recommended due to high holiday interest. For diners and fast food, walk-in seating is usually available.

Are any local restaurants open on Christmas?

Many independently owned restaurants close for the holiday, but you might find some open—especially Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern eateries in larger cities. Local tourism bureaus or restaurant guide websites may offer up-to-date listings.

Celebrate Stress-Free: Christmas Dining, Your Way

Whether your ideal Christmas meal is an extravagant steak dinner, a big family brunch, or simply a box of warm donuts and coffee, the nation’s chains offer plenty of options for a memorable, fuss-free holiday. Remember to check local hours, make reservations if possible, and enjoy more time with those you love by letting the professionals handle the cooking this year.

From comfort food classics to global cuisine and grab-and-go options, these 25 restaurants help ensure your stove—and you—get a well-deserved break this Christmas 2024.