With the holiday season in full swing, the question of “What Food Is Open On Christmas” often arises. Instead of spending hours slaving away in the kitchen, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a festive meal at a restaurant? Whether you’re seeking a lavish three-course dinner or a quick bite, knowing what restaurants are open on Christmas Day can be a lifesaver.
Let’s explore the diverse culinary landscape that remains open during the holiday season, ensuring a merry and stress-free Christmas for everyone.
Navigating Christmas Day Dining
When considering what food is open on Christmas Day, the options are surprisingly diverse. Some establishments offer special Christmas menus, while others maintain their regular offerings. From cozy, sit-down restaurants to fast-food chains, there’s something for every palate and preference.
Before venturing out, it’s advisable to double-check the holiday hours of your chosen restaurant, as some may operate on a reduced schedule. Confirming that the location near you is open is crucial. Moreover, if you’re planning a special Christmas dinner, making a reservation is highly recommended. Nobody wants to be greeted by locked doors and an empty stomach on Christmas!
A beautifully decorated Christmas table setting, perfect for a festive family meal.
Fast Food Options on Christmas Day
If you’re looking for convenience, many fast-food restaurants are open on Christmas Day. Chains like Waffle House, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Burger King often keep their doors open, offering comfort food favorites. Some even feature holiday-themed treats. Keep an eye out for McDonald’s holiday pie or Dunkin’ Donuts’ peppermint mocha latte and festive donuts. Starbucks also typically joins the holiday cheer with its peppermint mocha and cranberry bliss bar.
The Chinese Restaurant Tradition
For many, the tradition of eating at Chinese restaurants on Christmas Day is a cherished one. The growing popularity of this practice means that many Chinese restaurants are open on Christmas Day, providing a delicious alternative to traditional holiday fare. You can often find your favorite dishes, from General Tso’s chicken to dim sum, readily available.
Denny’s: A Christmas Staple
Yes, Denny’s remains open on Christmas Day. Known for its classic diner fare and holiday-themed meals, Denny’s offers a comforting option for those seeking a traditional Christmas dinner without the hassle of cooking. Consider making a reservation, as restaurants open on Christmas Day tend to be busy.
A Comprehensive List: Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Here’s a list of popular restaurants that are often open on Christmas Day, offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences:
1. Applebee’s
Applebee’s provides a festive dining experience with holiday combos featuring dishes like honey barbecue chicken breast and blackened Cajun salmon. Don’t forget to try their holiday cocktails, such as the Tipsy Reindeer or Berry Merry Colada.
A selection of festive holiday cocktails at Applebee’s, perfect for a Christmas celebration.
2. Benihana
Enjoy an interactive dining experience at Benihana, where teppanyaki chefs prepare hibachi-style dishes right at your table. Remember to make reservations through OpenTable.
3. Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill offers fresh seafood in a warm atmosphere. Enjoy favorites like bang bang shrimp and wood-grilled fish, along with seasonal specials.
4. Boston Market
For a hearty holiday feast, Boston Market offers rotisserie chicken, turkey, and ham, along with seasonal sides and desserts.
5. Buffalo Wild Wings
If you’re craving a casual spot, Buffalo Wild Wings offers signature wings, burgers, and beer, often with holiday sauces and drink specials.
6. Burger King
Burger King offers a quick and familiar option for those craving a Whopper or other fast-food favorites. Check for limited hours at your local branch.
7. Brio Italian Grille
Brio Italian Grille serves Tuscan-inspired cuisine, including pasta, flatbreads, and holiday specials like chicken marsala and grilled salmon.
A bowl of Mediterranean pasta from Brio Italian Grille, offering a taste of Italy on Christmas Day.
8. Chart House
Chart House offers breathtaking waterfront views and exceptional seafood, with a festive three-course prix-fixe holiday menu.
9. P.F. Chang’s
P.F. Chang’s provides bold, Asian-inspired flavors with a limited-time menu featuring dishes like flaming filet mignon wontons and chile crab fried rice.
10. Cracker Barrel (Christmas Eve)
While closed on Christmas Day, Cracker Barrel serves up Southern comfort food on Christmas Eve, with holiday dishes like country-fried turkey.
11. Del Frisco’s Grille
Del Frisco’s Grille offers chef-inspired dishes and a festive atmosphere, with premium offerings like wagyu chateaubriand and festive cocktails.
12. Del Taco
Del Taco provides a convenient fast-food option, with tacos, crinkle-cut fries, and exclusive deals through the Del App.
13. Denny’s
Denny’s, as mentioned earlier, is a reliable choice for comfort food and traditional holiday meals.
14. Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s Pizza is perfect for satisfying cheesy cravings, with classic and seasonal pizza options, as well as festive treats.
15. Dunkin’ Donuts
Dunkin’ Donuts offers festive treats like the Holiday Cookie Signature latte and seasonal foods, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
A vibrant display of doughnuts from Dunkin’ Donuts, providing a sweet treat on Christmas Day.
16. STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouse offers an elevated holiday meal with signature prime rib, turkey, dry-aged steaks, and truffle fries.
17. Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão provides a unique dining experience with fire-roasted meats carved tableside and an expansive market table.
18. Hardee’s (Christmas Eve)
While closed on Christmas Day, Hardee’s offers hearty meals that can be enjoyed on Christmas Eve, including cinnamon and raisin biscuits and candied bacon.
19. IHOP
IHOP offers fluffy pancakes and festive holiday treats, serving breakfast and family feast options on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
20. Kona Grill
Kona Grill features a creative blend of American and global flavors, with holiday specials like prime rib surf and turf and roasted turkey with miso mashed potatoes.
21. Legal Sea Foods
Legal Sea Foods offers fresh, high-quality seafood classics and holiday specials, varying by location.
22. McDonald’s
McDonald’s provides a familiar fast-food option, often with a holiday menu including items like the double Big Mac and Celebrations McFlurry.
23. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Morton’s The Steakhouse offers a luxurious holiday dining experience, with its chateaubriand holiday dinner for two.
A delicious steak from Morton’s The Steakhouse, offering a luxurious dining experience on Christmas Day.
24. Olive Garden (Christmas Eve)
While closed on Christmas Day, Olive Garden is perfect for those craving Italian comfort classics like fettuccine Alfredo and lasagna on Christmas Eve.
25. Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse offers bold steaks, seafood, and iconic dishes, with a Steakmas Season menu featuring bone-in ribeye and chocolate tower cake.
26. Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock Café provides an upbeat dining experience with customizable holiday meals and a Breakfast with Santa event.
27. Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Romano’s Macaroni Grill serves scratch-made Italian cuisine, with signature dishes like chicken scallopini and Mom’s ricotta meatballs and spaghetti.
A vibrant pasta dish from Romano’s Macaroni Grill, providing a taste of Italy on Christmas Day.
28. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers a luxurious feast with signature sizzling steaks, seafood, and classic sides.
29. Shoney’s
Shoney’s provides a comforting meal with its all-you-can-eat buffets, featuring traditional holiday favorites like carved ham and turkey.
30. Waffle House
Waffle House is open 24 hours a day, offering fluffy waffles, savory hash browns, and other breakfast staples.
31. Wendy’s
Wendy’s sticks to its regular menu with fresh beef burgers and crispy chicken sandwiches, alongside limited-time holiday treats.
A row of classic burgers from Wendy’s, offering a familiar fast-food option on Christmas Day.
32. Bob Evans
Bob Evans offers a special Farmhouse Feast with holiday classics like slow-roasted turkey or hickory-smoked ham, available for dine-in or takeout.
33. Arby’s (Christmas Eve)
While closed on Christmas Day, Arby’s serves up its signature roast beef sandwiches and value menu until Christmas Eve.
34. Buca di Beppo
Buca di Beppo serves Italian classics family-style, with festive options for large gatherings.
35. Chipotle (Christmas Eve)
While closed on Christmas Day, Chipotle offers your favorite Mexican dishes on Christmas Eve, with no special holiday additions.
36. Bar Louie
Bar Louie embellishes its menu with Steakmas-inspired holiday specials, including indulgent dishes and festive drinks.
37. El Torito
El Torito offers festive Mexican flavors with a Christmas Day fixed-price menu and signature margaritas with a holiday twist.
Conclusion: A Stress-Free Christmas Dining Experience
Knowing what food is open on Christmas Day ensures that your holiday celebration is both stress-free and delicious. Whether you prefer a traditional feast or something more unique, there are plenty of options to suit your Christmas cravings. By letting someone else handle the cooking, you can focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones. From fine dining establishments to casual fast-food spots, there’s no shortage of choices to make this Christmas a memorable one.
