Where To Get Free Food On Veterans Day: A Comprehensive Guide

Looking for Where To Get Free Food On Veterans Day? foods.edu.vn has compiled a definitive guide to Veterans Day dining deals, offering complimentary meals and discounts for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Discover the best dining options and learn about veteran appreciation initiatives. This guide also provides insights into military appreciation, free meals for veterans, and restaurant discounts for military personnel, offering a delightful experience for those who served.

1. Understanding Veterans Day and Its Significance

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a day dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a time to express gratitude for their sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to protecting our nation’s freedoms. Unlike Memorial Day, which commemorates those who died in service, Veterans Day honors all veterans, living or deceased.

1.1. A Brief History of Veterans Day

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was first celebrated in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I, which officially ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all American veterans of all wars.

1.2. Why Businesses Offer Free Meals on Veterans Day

Offering free meals and discounts on Veterans Day is a way for businesses to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifice of veterans. It’s a gesture of goodwill and a way to give back to the community. Many restaurants and establishments see it as a way to connect with veterans and their families, creating a sense of camaraderie and support. This practice is widely recognized as a meaningful way to honor veterans.

2. Navigating Veterans Day Free Meal Offers

While the generosity of businesses offering free meals on Veterans Day is commendable, it’s important to approach these offers with a bit of planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

2.1. Verifying Participation

It’s important to verify if a restaurant near you is participating. Contact your nearest establishment to make sure they are participating in their national chain’s Veterans Day programs.

2.2. Proof of Service Requirements

Most businesses require proof of military service to redeem Veterans Day offers. Common forms of identification include:

  • Military ID Card: A valid military ID card is the most straightforward form of identification.
  • DD Form 214: This document, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is issued to veterans upon separation from service.
  • Veteran ID Card: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issues Veteran ID Cards to eligible veterans.
  • State-Issued Driver’s License or ID Card with Veteran Designation: Many states offer driver’s licenses or ID cards with a veteran designation.
  • Wearing a Military Uniform: Some establishments may accept veterans in uniform as proof of service.

2.3. Understanding Menu Restrictions

Many restaurants offer a select menu for Veterans Day free meals. Be sure to inquire about the specific menu items included in the offer to avoid disappointment.

2.4. Considering Time Constraints

Some restaurants may limit the hours during which the Veterans Day offer is valid. Check the specific time frame to ensure you arrive within the designated period.

3. Restaurant Chains Offering Free Meals on Veterans Day

Here’s a comprehensive list of restaurant chains offering free meals or beverages to veterans and active-duty military personnel on or around Veterans Day, November 11:

3.1. National Chains

Restaurant Offer Date Notes
110 Grill Complimentary lunch from a select menu November 11 Valid military ID required; 11:30am to 4:00pm
Another Broken Egg Cafe Free Patriot French Toast and Barista House Blend Coffee November 11 Dine-in only, valid ID required
Applebee’s Free meal from a select menu November 11 Participating locations, dine-in only
Aroma Joe’s Free 24oz. hot/iced drink November 11 Show military ID
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar Free 5 oz. BD’s All American Burger with cheese and choice of side November 11 Valid military ID required; 11am to 3pm
Bagger Dave’s Free Great American Cheeseburger and fries November 11 Valid at all Bagger Dave’s locations, dine-in only
Bakers Square Free 2-2-2 Breakfast November 11 Valid ID required, dine-in, to go, and online ordering
Bandana’s BBQ Free pulled pork sandwich with choice of one side November 11 Military ID or proof of service required, dine-in only
Bar Louie Free burger (excludes the Big Louie) Nov 10-11 Upgrade to Impossible Burger for $4; military ID required, dine-in only
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Free BYOB and Fries November 11 Participating locations
BIBIBOP Asian Grill Free Bowl in-store November 11 Valid ID required, in-store only; premium toppings and additional items not included
Biggby Coffee Free 16oz latte hot/iced/frozen November 11 Military ID required
Bill Gray’s Free World’s Greatest Cheeseburger, Regular Fries, and Soda November 11
Billy Sims Barbecue Free pulled pork sandwich, one regular side and a regular drink November 11 Dine-in only, mention special and show military/veteran’s card or apparel
Biscuit Belly Choice of Bacon Egg & Cheese, Sausage Egg & Cheese, or Chicken Biscuit Sandwich and a hot drip coffee or fountain drink November 11 All locations, dine-in only, 7:30am – 2:00pm
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse Free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie November 11 Dine-in only, no minimum purchase; bounce back coupon for free appetizer valid Nov 12 – Dec 31, 2024
Black Rifle Coffee Company Free 16-ounce coffee November 11 Black Rifle Coffee Company Outposts; 25% off retail merchandise
Bob Evans Free meal from a select menu November 11 Dine-in only
Bombshells Restaurant and Bar Free entree November 11 Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio locations; other items 20% off for veterans; restrictions apply
Bonefish Grill Complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage November 11 Valid ID required
Brass Tap Free Pub Burger and Fries November 11 Valid ID required
Bruegger’s Bagels Free hot or iced coffee (any size) with a purchase November 11 In-store only
Buffalo Wild Wings 10 free boneless wings and fries November 11 Valid ID required, dine-in or walk-in at Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations
Calhoun’s Free meal November 11 Participating locations, dine-in only, valid military ID required
California Fish Grill Complimentary taco and soft drink November 11 Unique redemption code via email registration and proof of service or uniform, in-restaurant orders only
California Pizza Kitchen Complimentary meal from a select menu November 11 BOGO offer for future visit between November 12-25, 2024
Cantina Laredo Complimentary entrée (limit $25) November 11 Participating locations
Carolina Ale House Free half rack rib platter November 11 NC, FL, and TN locations only, in-store only
Carrabba’s Complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a free nonalcoholic beverage November 11 Show service ID; restrictions apply
Casey’s General Stores Free any size coffee or fountain drink November 11
Cattlemens Complimentary sirloin steak dinner November 11 Sign up on or before November 11 to receive steak certificate; valid 11/12 – 11/22/24; CA locations only
Champps Kitchen + Bar Free meal (up to $15, pre-tax & gratuity) November 11 11am to 4pm
Charleys Cheesesteaks Free regular-sized Gourmet Fry November 11 Military ID or proof of service required, no purchase necessary
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Complimentary appetizer or dessert November 11
Chevys Fresh Mex Complimentary 2-Item Combo November 11 Dine-in only, show uniformed service ID, Promo Code: VET 2-ITEM
Chicken Salad Chick Free meal November 11 All locations
Chili’s Free meal from a select menu November 11 Participating restaurants, in-restaurant only, military ID required
Cicis Pizza Eat free November 11
City Barbecue Free sandwich, one side, and a drink November 11 In-store only for dine-in or carryout
Claim Jumper Complimentary meal from a select menu November 11 Any location
Cody’s Original Roadhouse Free 8oz. Top Sirloin or 8oz. Chicken Breast with choice of side, Bottomless Salad, and fresh rolls November 11 Offer may vary by location, proper ID required, drinks and alcohol not included
Colton’s Steak House & Grill Free entrée November 11 Dine-in from a select menu, valid military ID required, hours and participation may vary
Cotton Patch Cafe Complimentary Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken November 11 Dine-in only, present a valid military ID, cannot be combined with other promotions
Cracker Barrel Complimentary Sunrise Pancake Special November 11 Dine-in only; 25% off military-themed apparel in-store and online from November 1-11
Crooked Pint Ale House Free meal: Classic Lucy, Bourbon Cranberry Salad, Chicken Pot Pie, or Hog Heaven November 11
Cumberland Farms Free coffee November 11
Davanni’s Pizza and Hot Hoagies Free solo 1-item pizza and a soda November 11 Dine-in or takeout
Dave & Buster’s Free entree (up to $20) and a free $10 Power Card November 11 Valid veterans ID card required
Denny’s Free Original Grand Slam November 11 5am to 12pm, must show valid Military ID or DD214
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Buy One Get One free for any sandwich November 11 In-store pick-up when ordering through the Dickey’s app or at Dickeys.com; Code: VETFREE
Duffy’s Sports Grill Free meal November 11 11am to 4pm, dine-in only with ID, limit of one free meal per veteran, maximum value $15
Dunkin’ Free donut November 11 Limit one per guest while supplies last, offer available in-store only
East Coast Wings + Grill Free meal from a select menu November 11 Dine-in only
Eddie Merlot’s Eddie’s Prime Cheeseburger with Fries November 11 Dine-in only, while supplies last, show proof of military service
Einstein Bros. Bagels Free hot or iced coffee (any size) with a purchase November 11 In-store only
El Chico Free entrée (limit $25) November 11 Participating locations, proof of service required
El Fenix Complimentary taco or enchilada meal November 11 Military ID required, dine-in only
Emmet’s Social Table Complimentary meal (up to $15 value) November 11 11:30am to 9pm, proof of military ID required
Eureka! Complimentary Burger (any burger) November 11
Famous Dave’s Free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich and choice of side November 11 Dine-In, To Go and Online Ordering, limit one per veteran with valid ID
Farmer Boys Free Big Cheese burger November 11 Participating locations, dine-in only, proof of service required, limited to one per service member
Fazoli’s Free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce November 11 Participating locations, proof of service required when dining in or via online code, Vet24
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Veteran’s lunch or dinner is free November 11 Dine with a veteran or active-duty service member
Firehouse Subs Free medium sub with the purchase of a medium or large sub, chips, and a drink November 11 Must show military ID
Food City One free hot bar meal November 11 Military ID card or proof of service with ValuCard required
Freddy’s Frozen Custard Meal card valid for a free combo meal of their choice November 11 Participating locations, cards may be redeemed through December 31, 2024
Fricker’s 10 free Boneless Frickin’ Chicken Wings November 11 Dine-in only with ID
Friendly’s Free All American Burger with cheese and a beverage November 11 In-restaurant only from 11am to 5pm, must show military ID or honorable discharge document
Frisch’s Big Boy Free Big Boy, fries, and drink November 11 Dine-in only
Gold Star Chili Complimentary meal (up to $12 off) November 11 Proof of service required, dine-in, carry out or drive-thru
Golden Corral Free “thank you” meal November 11 4pm to close, dine-in only
Good Times Burgers Free Deluxe Cheeseburger Combo November 11 Valid military ID required, 11am to 3pm, dine-in only
Granite City Food & Brewery Free lunch from a special menu November 11 11am to 4pm, use code ‘VETERANS24’ for online orders, proof of service required
Green Mill Restaurant and Bar Free 2-Topping Personal Pizza, Desert Fire Pasta, Western Mill Burger, or Cobb Salad with Chicken November 11
Greene Turtle Free meal up to $15 November 11 Valid ID required, participating locations, dine-in only, cannot be combined with other offers
Grillsmith Complimentary entrée November 11 Dine-in only
Hacienda Mexican Restaurant Free Large Wet Burrito November 11 Dine-in OR carryout
Hamburger Stand Free Hamburger, Regular Fries and Small soda November 11 Participating locations
Happy Joe’s Free lunch smorgasbord, including a drink, or enjoy a free small 2-topping pizza November 11 Select locations only
Hard Rock Cafe Complimentary Legendary Burger November 11 15% military discount for friends and family; earn points with Unity by Hard Rock loyalty program
Hawaiian Bros Free classic plate lunch November 11 Valid ID required, dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru, not valid on online or delivery orders
Hickory Tavern Free meal of equal or lesser value with purchase of another meal November 11 Open to close, dine-in only, limit of one free meal per U.S military service member, proof of service required
Hof’s Hut Free Hofburger + 1 side or Pancakes Combo November 11 One $10 bonus card for each veteran
Hooters Free meal from the Hooters Veterans Day Menu November 11 Proof of service or military ID required, purchase of a beverage required, dine-in only, participating locations
Hopdoddy Burger Bar Free classic burger November 11 Dine-in only
Hoss’s Steak and Sea House Free soup, salad, bread, nacho, and dessert bar and iced tea November 11 Dine-in only, no other discounts apply; $10 off $40 voucher for future visit in November
Huddle House Free MVP Breakfast Platter November 11 Participating locations, dine-in only
Huey Magoo’s Free 3-Piece Tender Meal with the purchase of a beverage November 11 Military or Veteran ID or 00-214 form required, one-time use only for in-store orders, participating locations
Hurricane Grill and Wings Complimentary entree from a select menu November 11 Valid ID required or wear a military uniform, participating locations, dine-in only
Hy-Vee Free breakfast November 11 6 to 10am at all stores
IHOP Free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo November 11 7am to 7pm, dine-in only, at participating restaurants
In-N-Out Burger Complimentary meal, including any burger, fries, and beverage November 11 Present proof of military service
Insomnia Cookies Free Deluxe cookie in-store with $5 purchase November 9-11 Show military ID
Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant Complimentary burger or sandwich along with a non-alcoholic beverage November 11 Proof of service required, dine-in only
J. Christopher’s Free meal November 11 Valid ID required, participating locations
Jefferson’s Restaurant Free entree of their choice (max value $15.99) November 11 Select locations, dine-in only
Johnny Rockets Free Single Burger with the purchase of any drink or shake November 11 Valid ID required or wear a military uniform, participating locations, dine-in only
Kings Family Restaurant Free meal November 11
Kolache Factory One free kolache (any kind) and one cup of freshly brewed Katz coffee (any size) November 11 6am to 2pm, valid ID required, excludes croissants, Polish varieties, and espresso drinks
Krispy Kreme Free doughnut and coffee November 11 In shop only at participating U.S. retail locations, limit 1 per guest per visit in shop and drive-thru only
Krystal Free Breakfast Sandwich November 11 Opening to 11am, show proof of service (military ID) and choose from select breakfast sandwiches
Kwik Fill Free coffee November 11 Select Kwik Fill locations
LaMar’s Donuts Free 12 oz coffee and donut November 11
Lazy Dog Restaurants Free entrée November 11 Active-duty military, discharged, retired or reserve; extended Weekend Brunch hours
Lion’s Choice Free original roast beef sandwich November 11 Request free sandwich at check-out by stating they are a veteran or showing a valid ID
Little Caesars Complimentary Lunch Combo: four slices of Little Caesars signature Detroit-style Deep Dish pizza and a 20-ounce beverage November 11 11:00am to 2:00pm
Logan’s Roadhouse Complimentary meal from a special menu November 11 11am to 3pm at participating locations
Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ Complimentary Pulled Pork Sandwich or personal-sized Fried Chicken Plate November 11 Dine-in only; $10 bonus card redeemable from 11/29/24 – 12/8/24
Luna Grill Free entrée reward (up to $19.99) in the Luna Grill app November 11 In-restaurant redemption at all locations with valid military ID
Main Event Free double cheeseburger and 30 minute Fun Card November 11 Active-duty military and veterans with ID
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant 50% off your entree November 11 Participating locations
Marzoni’s Brick Oven & Brewing Co. Free 12 oz draft or soft drink November 11 One drink per veteran, no purchase required; $10 off $40 Voucher for next visit in November
McGrath’s Fish House Free meal from a select menu November 11 Show military ID or other proof of service
Menchie’s First 6 oz of froyo free November 11 Valid ID required
Mimi’s Cafe Free meal (up to a $20 value) November 11 Dine-in only with ID
Mission BBQ Free sandwich November 11
MOD Pizza Free Mega Cookie with purchase of a pizza or salad November 11
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes Free Freedom Rings Burger November 11 Purchase of fries or a drink required, show military ID
Mr Gatti’s Pizza Free buffet and drink November 11 Participating locations, show military ID
Native Grill & Wings Free meal: ½ lb Stripper Combo, a ½ lb Boneless Combo or, a #MyNative Burger with fries November 11 Valid ID required or wear a military uniform, participating locations, dine-in only
Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub Free lunch from the Veterans Day menu with purchase of any entree November 11 Opening to 5pm
O’Charley’s Free meal from a select menu or a $10 Louisiana sirloin November 11 11am to 4pm, dine-in only
Old Chicago Complimentary entrée from an exclusive menu November 11 Proof of service required, non-water beverage purchase required
Olive Garden Complimentary entrée from a special menu November 11 Dine-in only
On the Border Free Choose 2 Combo Meal November 11 Dine in with a military ID or proof of military service, valid at participating locations
Original Rainbow Cone Free classic sundae November 11 Valid ID required, in-store only at participating locations
Outback Steakhouse Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree November 11 In-restaurant
Paisano’s Pizza Free medium cheese pizza November 11
Parry’s Pizza Free full-size entrée and fountain drink from a special menu November 11 11am to 4pm, show a valid military ID or proof of service, dine-in only
Peet’s Coffee One free drip coffee or tea of any size November 11 Valid only at participating Peet’s retail coffeebar locations, excludes online purchases
Perkins Free Great American Trio Meal November 11 Participating locations, valid military ID required
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille Free Dinner-Cut Pork Chop when accompanied by a guest purchasing one dinner entree November 11 Military Menu available 4pm to close, must have military ID or proof of service, not available for group dining
Piada Italian Street Food Free entrée November 11 Valid form of ID at all locations
Pilot Flying J Free meal up to $12 November 11 ID.me verified active, retired, or veteran service members and their families through Pilot’s myRewards Plus app
Playa Bowls Free bowl November 11 Valid military ID required, in-shop only at select locations
Pluckers Free meal (entrée, side, and non alcoholic beverage up to $16 value) November 11 Valid ID required, dine in only, not good with other offers
Polly’s Pies Free slice of pie, no purchase necessary November 10-11 Military ID required, in-store only
Primanti Bros Free classic Primanti Bros. sandwiches November 11
RA Sushi Complimentary shareable and 15% off November 11 Dine-in only
Red Lobster Free Veteran’s Shrimp & Chip November 11 Valid military ID or proof of service required, dine-in only
Red Robin Complimentary Red’s Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Side November 11 Dining in at participating restaurants
Rock and Brews Complimentary “We Salute You” Pulled Pork Sandwich or Strawberry Fields Salads November 11
Ruby Tuesday Free Garden Bar entrée, American Smashed Burger, or Ruby’s Cheeseburger November 11 Military ID required, Code HERO24
Scooter’s Coffee Free Medium Drink of your choice November 11 Military ID required, valid in-store only
Seven Doors Kitchen & Cocktails Complimentary meal November 11
Shane’s Rib Shack Free Slow-Smoked BBQ Pork or Chopped BBQ Chicken Plate November 11 In-store only, one free meal per veteran, must show proof of service
Shoney’s Free All-American Burger or a free Legendary Breakfast Bar November 11 Items may vary by location, proof of U.S. military service required, dine-in only
Shrimp Basket One free full size popcorn shrimp basket November 11 Valid military ID required
Sizzler Free lunch: Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, Malibu Chicken, or 6oz Tri-Tip Steak entree November 11 Participating locations, until 4:00m
Smashburger Free All-American Smash November 11 Participating locations, in-store purchases during regular business hours, show military or veteran ID
Smokey Bones Free Create Your Own 1 (one protein, one side, not valid on brisket or baby back ribs) November 11 Valid military ID required
Smokey Mo’s Free breakfast tacos November 11 Veterans and active-duty military with an ID
Snarf’s Sandwiches Complimentary 7’’regular sandwich November 11 Must present proof of military service, one per person, in store offer only
Sonny’s BBQ Free Pork Big Deal November 11 Verify military status and get coupon on their registration page
Starbucks Free tall (12-ounce) brewed coffee (hot or iced) November 11 Participating U.S. stores and licensed locations
Sullivan’s Steakhouse Sullivan’s Signature Angus Burger with Fries November 11 Dine-in only, show proof of military service
Sweet Buzz Bean & Bistro Complimentary meal November 11 Show your ID and receive a 20oz Sweet Buzz refillable tumbler for $15 each
Tap House Grill Free meal November 11 Participating locations, dine-in only
Taziki’s Complimentary Grilled Chicken Gyro meal, which includes chips and a choice of a side November 11 Participating locations, dine in
TCBY First 6 oz. of frozen yogurt for free November 11 Participating locations, must show a valid ID
Texas Corral Free meal from a limited menu November 11 Dine-in only
Texas Roadhouse Dine in or receive a meal voucher November 11 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with military ID, voucher good until May 30, 2025
TGI Fridays Free meal from a select menu November 11 11am to 3pm
Tijuana Flats Free entree (up to $11.19) with a purchase of a beverage November 11 Valid in store only, must have valid ID to redeem, use code HEROMEAL
Tim Hortons Free classic donut November 11 Guests in any US military uniform or present a valid veteran’s ID
Torchy’s Tacos Free taco and drink November 11 Offer available in-store only, must present military ID or proof of service
TravelCenters of America Free meal at participating restaurants November 11 Bring proof of service and enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at TA, Petro, or TA Express travel centers
Tucanos Brazilian Grill Free Churrasco meal with the purchase of another Churrasco meal Nov 11-12 Proof of service required
Tumble 22 Complimentary lunch November 11 11am to 3pm, dine-in-only offer
Twin Peaks Free lunch from a select menu November 11 11am to 3pm, participation may vary
TXB Free large coffee or fountain drink November 11
Uno Pizzeria & Grill Free entree November 11 Show your military or veteran ID, offer valid for dine-in only
Village Inn Free 2-2-2 Breakfast November 11 At participating locations, valid ID required for Dine-In, To Go and Online Ordering
Wendy’s Free Breakfast Combo, no purchase required November 11 During breakfast hours at participating locations, cannot be combined with other offers or discounts
Whataburger Free 16-ounce Hot or Iced Coffee November 11 Valid in-store only at participating locations
White Castle Free individual combo meal or a breakfast combo meal November 11 Dining at a participating restaurant
Wienerschnitzel Free Chili Dog, Small Fries and a small soda November 11 Participating locations, present military ID or wear your uniform
WingHouse Bar & Grill 5 free wings November 11 All day long, must show proof of service, restrictions apply
Wings and Rings Free lunch November 11 11am-2pm, dine-in only
WOB Bar & Kitchen Free order of Crispy Chicken Sliders Nov 8-11 Presenting a military ID, VA card or proof of service, also serving pup cups to retired and current service animals

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