The Ultimate Guide to Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Whether you're craving a festive feast or a familiar bite, discover which chains and local gems keep their doors open on Christmas Day (and Christmas Eve) for your holiday dining.
For some, Christmas Day is spent gathered around the kitchen table, indulging in home-cooked traditions. For others—whether traveling, seeking a break from the stove, or simply in search of something different—dining out is the order of the day. Fortunately, a wide selection of restaurants and fast-food chains step up each year to offer warm hospitality, holiday specials, and classic comfort fare. This comprehensive guide covers the most popular national chains and select local favorites open on Christmas Day (and Christmas Eve), plus tips on making your festive meal memorable outside the home.
From iconic diners and sushi spots to steakhouses and pizzerias, here’s where you can find a delicious meal on December 24th and 25th.
Fast Food Chains and Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
While not every restaurant is guaranteed to be open on December 25th, many well-known chains reliably serve customers every holiday season. Always call ahead to check local hours, as some franchises or locations may close early or operate on modified schedules.
- Waffle House: Renowned for its 24/7 service, most Waffle House locations remain open throughout Christmas. Grab a breakfast platter, hashbrowns your way, or a comforting waffle any time of day. Reduced hours may apply at some branches.
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Many Dunkin’ locations keep their doors open on both Christmas Eve and Day. Stop in for a Holiday Cookie Signature latte, peppermint mocha, festive doughnuts, or a quick savory snack. Confirm specific hours at your nearest store.
- Denny’s: A classic choice for traditional, American-style comfort food. Almost all Denny’s stay open Christmas Day, serving turkey and dressing, Christmas-themed pancakes, and their perennial favorites around the clock.
- IHOP: Satisfy breakfast cravings with seasonal pancake stacks, fluffy omelets, and family feasts at many IHOP locations (both Christmas Eve and Day).
- Del Taco: If you’re seeking a quick bite, Del Taco often opens on Christmas, featuring exclusive in-app deals and the usual tacos, fries, and burritos. Participation varies—call beforehand.
- Domino’s Pizza: Pizza on Christmas? Domino’s delivers! Many locations are open, but not universally, so it’s crucial to phone ahead. Some branches offer special seasonal pies and sides, from savory “Festive One” pizzas topped with turkey and sausage to decadent chocolate-Oreo desserts.
Chain Restaurants Offering Full-Service Christmas Dining
If you prefer to sit down for a more leisurely meal or a festive banquet, several family-style and fine dining chains present special menus and polished service on December 25th:
- Benihana: This teppanyaki staple is open both Christmas Eve and Day (hours may vary). Treat your group to dinner and a show, with chefs preparing steak, seafood, and vegetables right at your table.
- Buca Di Beppo: Feast on Italian classics with loved ones—many locations offer either dine-in or catering for crowd-pleasing pasta, family-style entrées, and sweet treats. Confirm Christmas Day availability at your local branch.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Most B-Dubs locations stay open on Christmas Eve (and some on Christmas Day) with limited hours, perfect for sports fans or anyone craving wings and beer during the holidays.
- Fogo de Chão: For a special-occasion meal, this Brazilian steakhouse offers a celebratory churrasco experience. Most locations are open both Christmas Eve and Day—expect continuous tableside service of signature meats and festive side dishes.
- Kona Grill: Blending American and global flavors, Kona Grill offers special holiday menus—think prime rib, surf-and-turf, and artfully crafted cocktails—plus a spirited ambiance for festive gatherings.
- Del Frisco’s Grille: This upscale option is open on Christmas Day, featuring chef-curated steaks, seafood, and decadent desserts. Their distinctive holiday cocktails, such as “Santa’s Sleigh Ride,” round out the experience.
Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve Only (with Takeaway Options)
Some favorite chains are closed on Christmas Day but provide festive meals and robust takeaway options right up to the holiday:
- Bob Evans: Closed Christmas Day, but open on Christmas Eve until 7 p.m. Take home the “Farmhouse Feasts” or “Holiday Hot Family Meal To Go” for a hassle-free celebration.
- Chipotle: Not open on Christmas, but offering their popular menu until 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve for burrito fans on the move.
- Cracker Barrel: Closed on December 25th, but visit until 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve or order “heat ‘n serve” meals for pickup between December 21st and 28th—Southern comfort classics without the stress of cooking.
Notable Local and Upscale Restaurants for Christmas Dining
In major cities, especially New York, an array of upscale and themed restaurants stay open, serving holiday menus that range from traditional feasts to inventive global cuisine:
- Feste (NYC): Includes a traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, and a la carte brunch with delights like red wine braised octopus and bananas foster buttermilk waffles on Christmas Day.
- Malibu Farm: Offers a three-course holiday menu, emphasizing fresh and local ingredients for a seasonal California dining experience.
- The Golden Swan: A West Village townhouse featuring a prix-fixe, French-inspired dinner on Christmas Eve, including beef Wellington and bûche de Noël with eggnog ice cream.
- Mari: Midtown Korean hand roll specialists serve cozy holiday fare—perfect for non-traditional celebrations.
- Le Coin: Prix-fixe meal both Christmas Eve and Day, with a complimentary glass of champagne to toast the season.
- The Ellington: Offers classic Christmas Eve comfort food—from grilled pork chops to braised short ribs.
- Le Jardinier: Michelin-starred establishment with a decadent five-course menu on Christmas Eve, including luxurious touches like cured hiramasa with caviar.
Tips for Christmas Dining Out
- Call Ahead: Always confirm hours and make reservations, as holiday schedules and openings can change year to year and location to location.
- Consider Takeout: Pre-ordered feasts and family meals are often available up until the 24th—ideal if you want to gather at home without the work.
- Expect Special Menus: Many restaurants introduce exclusive holiday dishes, festive cocktails, or prix-fixe menus to elevate your experience.
- Be Flexible: Staff shortages, limited seating, or varying hours may require adaptability and some patience. Consider dining at off-peak times for best service.
Popular Menu Highlights on Christmas Day
| Restaurant | Signature Holiday Item | Service Type |
|---|---|---|
| Denny’s | Holiday turkey & dressing dinner, Rudolph pancake breakfast | 24/7 Dine-in |
| Fogo de Chão | Churrasco (Brazilian steakhouse banquet) | Dine-in |
| Kona Grill | Prime rib surf & turf, roasted turkey with miso mashed potatoes | Dine-in |
| Buca Di Beppo | Italian family feast, catering options | Dine-in, Takeaway |
| Domino’s Pizza | The Festive One pizza, loaded fries, Twisted dough balls (chocolate & Oreo) | Takeout/Delivery |
| Dunkin’ Donuts | Holiday Cookie Signature latte, specialty doughnuts | Dine-in, Takeaway |
| Benihana | Teppanyaki steak and seafood holiday specials | Dine-in |
| IHOP | Seasonal pancake stacks, breakfast feast | Dine-in, Takeaway |
Family-Friendly, Global, and Comfort Dining Options
Whether you seek all-American classics, family-style Italian, or contemporary Asian fusion, there’s a diversity of spirit among restaurants open for the holidays:
- Family-friendly chains: Denny’s, IHOP, Cracker Barrel (Christmas Eve), and Bob Evans (Christmas Eve) for reliable favorites and kid-friendly menus.
- Global flavors: Benihana (Japanese-American), Fogo de Chão (Brazilian), Mari (Korean), and Buca Di Beppo (Italian), offering a change from turkey and ham dinners.
- Comfort options: Domino’s, Dunkin’, and Del Taco, ideal for a quick, cozy, no-fuss meal—perfect if you’re traveling, on the go, or simply want something different.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are all chain restaurant locations open on Christmas Day?
Not necessarily. While many chains like Waffle House, Denny’s, and IHOP have a tradition of staying open, individual franchises may vary their hours or close altogether. It’s essential to call your local branch ahead of Christmas Day for confirmation.
Do restaurants require reservations for Christmas dining?
Most sit-down and fine-dining establishments strongly recommend reservations, as Christmas is a popular day for dining out, and capacity may be limited due to staffing or special fixed menus.
What types of food can I expect at restaurants open on Christmas?
Expect a mix of regular menu favorites and holiday-themed specials, from turkey dinners with all the trimmings at Denny’s to global flavors at sushi, Italian, or Brazilian steakhouses. Many fast-food outlets stick with their classic offerings but may add seasonal treats or drinks.
Can I order holiday meals to-go if I prefer to eat at home?
Yes—many chains like Bob Evans, Buca Di Beppo, and Cracker Barrel (Christmas Eve) offer takeout family meals or catering packages. Some pizza and fast-food places, like Domino’s and Del Taco, also provide easy pickup or delivery.
Are there vegetarian or allergy-conscious options on Christmas menus?
Most large chains and many upscale restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free choices year-round, but it’s wise to check menus online or inquire in advance, as special holiday offerings may be more limited.
Essential Holiday Dining Tips
- Check restaurant websites or call ahead for the most current information on hours, reservations, and menu offerings.
- Arrive early or consider off-peak dining times to avoid crowds and long waits.
- If you prefer takeout, order well in advance—many restaurants may cut off pre-orders a few days before the holiday.
- For a festive touch, ask about holiday drinks, desserts, and chef’s specials—many are available only once a year!
- Show appreciation to staff working through the holidays with extra kindness or gratuity.
Whether you’re craving classic comfort, global flavors, or a last-minute bite, these restaurants and chains help ensure your Christmas is celebrated with great food—and zero cleanup. Wherever you dine, cheers to a stress-free and delicious holiday!
