Christmas Day is very romanticized as a fairy-tale holiday with a cozy, greeting-card-perfect ambiance. But in reality, not everyone has the mental or emotional energy to host a holiday dinner and face the mountain of dishes afterward. This year, many might feel like ’tis the season for someone else to cook.
If that sounds like you, here are the restaurant chains that will be open on Christmas Day — and a few that will be turning off their Christmas lights for the holiday.
Note: We recommend calling ahead to confirm that your nearest location will be open as hours can vary.
1. Denny’s
If your holiday plans crash like Tim Allen’s turkey in The Santa Clause (1994), head to your local Denny’s — the chain will keep its 24/7 hours throughout the holiday season.
2. Waffle House
Waffle House will keep the Christmas lights on for anyone who’d rather have a waffle than a roasted ham. The chain stays open 24/7 year-round, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
3. IHOP
Most IHOP locations are typically open 24/7, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. However, hours can vary by location, especially during holidays, so check with your local IHOP.
4. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
You can have your holiday cheer served medium rare at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, as the steakhouse chain would stay open during Christmas Eve and Christmas. Hours vary by location, so check with your local restaurant. Reservations are recommended for a smooth holiday dining experience.
5. Wendy’s
Wendy’s locations are generally open on Christmas Day, but some locations may operate with limited hours, while others may be closed. It’s best to check with your local Wendy’s for specific holiday hours.
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6. Benihana
Many Benihana locations are open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day — because nothing says festive like a tableside hibachi show. Check with your local Benihana and make sure to reserve ahead of time.
7. Buca di Beppo
Buca di Beppo is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, typically from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., serving their signature family-style Italian dishes. However, hours can vary by location, so it’s best to check with your local restaurant.
8. Applebee’s
Most Applebee’s will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but hours may be reduced, so make sure to check with your local store.
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9. Fogo de Chão
Most locations of the Brazilian steakhouse will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
10. McDonald’s
Though hours vary, many McDonald’s locations stay open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Check with your local spot before heading out for those holiday fries.
11. Hooters
Hooters will be open on Christmas Day, with most locations operating from 4 p.m. to midnight. However, hours can vary by location, so it’s best to check with your local restaurant for exact times.
12. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Morton’s The Steakhouse will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, offering a special three-course dinner menu. Specific hours may vary by location; it’s best to check with your local restaurant for exact times.
Restaurants That Will Be Closed on Christmas Day
- Cracker Barrel: Closed on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: until 2 p.m.).
- Texas Roadhouse: Closed on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: until 6 p.m.).
- Whataburger: Closed on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: varies by location).
- Chili’s: Closed on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: typically until 8 p.m..
- Burger King: Closed at most locations on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: until 10 PM, varies).
- Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr.: Closed on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: usually until 8 p.m.).
- Subway: Closed at many locations on Christmas Day (Christmas Eve hours: varies by franchise).
- Chick-fil-A: Closed on Christmas Day. (Christmas Eve hours vary by location; typically open until 6 p.m.)
- Chipotle: Closed on Christmas Day. (Christmas Eve hours vary; many locations close early, around 3 p.m.)
- Olive Garden: Closed on Christmas Day. (Christmas Eve hours vary; many locations close early, around 8 p.m.)
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