Who has the patience to cook a big meal on New Year’s Day? Certainly not you, if you did New Year’s Eve right. If you want to leave the kitchen work to somebody else, we get it. Here are 15 restaurant chains that will be open on New Year’s Day.
Because these restaurants are so nationally spread, it’s possible your local outpost may be operating under different hours. Hours and participation will vary, so be sure to double check before you get in the car.
1. McDonald’s
America’s burger tends to stay open on holidays, so there’s no reason not to french fry it up on the first day of the year.
2. Denny’s
There are three things that are certain: Death, taxes, and the fact that Denny’s never closes.
3. Applebee’s
You can eat well in the neighborhood at most Applebee’s locations on Jan. 1, but as always, be sure to check your local hours.
4. IHOP
Many IHOPs are open 24/7/365, and New Year’s Day is just another day at the diner.
5. Capital Grille
If you want to quadruple your McDonald’s prices, consider Capital Grille. You can make reservations at many locations, so that should help indicate just when you can get in.
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6. Chili’s
With burgers that often look better, taste better, and cost less than a drive-thru, Chili’s has some serious bang-for-your buck.
7. Wendy’s
If Saucy Nuggs are what you want to start the year with, Wendy’s is there for you.
8. Cracker Barrel
Everybody’s favorite country store will be open on New Year’s Day for all the gigantic portions you can handle.
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9. Olive Garden
Is there a better kickstart to saving money in 2025 than having unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks on the first day? Doubt it.
10. Yardhouse
We’re not here to say you should drink a yard of beer on Jan. 1, but if you partied hard enough on December 31, you may need one to get through the rest of the day.
11. Texas Roadhouse
Texas decor, steaks, and ribs are a big way to kick off the year, but right now, that may just be what the doctor ordered.
12. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maybe guaranteed leftovers are what you want to begin your year with; Maggiano’s is the place to go for that.
13. The Cheesecake Factory
Was one of your New Year’s Resolutions to read more? You can start with the 800-page novel that is the Cheesecake Factory menu.
14. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Ruth’s Chris is always reliable, and best of all, they take reservations. Take the hassle out of it, and lock in your table.
15. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Cheddar’s will be open, but the place is extremely family friendly, so take caution you may be walking into a realm full of children if you’re here on New Year’s Day.
