We get it – the holidays are busy, and while a big home-cooked dinner is often what comes to mind when one thinks of Thanksgiving, it can take days of planning, grocery trips, and food prep.
When you already have too much on your plate (or maybe you just don’t want all the cleanup), it’s helpful to have additional options for Turkey Day. After all, the most important thing is being able to spend time with friends and family, regardless of who is doing the cooking.
We have compiled a list of 30 restaurant options that will be open this Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024. Whether you want to dine in or take out, have a turkey dinner, or are craving another type of fare, there are plenty of alternatives to give you a break from the kitchen this year.
A helpful reminder: Before heading to one of these restaurants, we recommend calling your local franchise to confirm their hours and make reservations if necessary.
Restaurant-Style Thanksgiving Feasts
Bob Evans
According to the Bob Evans website, the hearty family-style restaurant will be open from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. for breakfast or a special homestyle Thanksgiving holiday meal.
Boston Market
Famous for its rotisserie chicken, Boston Market offers catering, dine-in, and take-out options for Thanksgiving.
Buca di Beppo
“Don’t let cooking gobble up your time,” says Buca di Beppo. Enjoy their Italian twist on a Thanksgiving Feast, where the only thing you lift is your fork.
Chart House
Chart House offers a three-course menu featuring both their regular favorites and classic Thanksgiving dishes.
Cracker Barrel
Serving up southern favorites, including country-fried turkey, Cracker Barrel is sure to please the whole family.
Del Frisco’s Grille
At Del Frisco’s Grille, you can indulge in the classic tastes of the season with a delicious Thanksgiving dish or a curated prix fixe menu.
Denny’s
Denny’s offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between… Including a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
Fogo De Chão
The Brazilian steakhouse will serve a special Turkey Day menu in addition to its usual fare. Note that dinner pricing is in effect all day on holidays at Fogo De Chão.
Golden Corral
Feast on Thanksgiving favorites at Golden Corral Buffet and Grill. They also offer heat-and-serve options that you can take home.
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s restaurant offers a chef-curated selection of classic Thanksgiving flavors to make the holiday a memorable one.
Metro Diner
This year you can build your own Thanksgiving plate – Metro Diner style. Be sure to try their Stuff ’N Waffles! Note: All locations will be closing at 2:30 pm Thanksgiving Day (11/28).
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Keep things classic with a three-course traditional turkey dinner at Romano’s Macaroni Grill.
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
In addition to their famous steaks, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is offering a three-course Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings.
Season’s 52
If you are looking for a healthier alternative, Seasons 52 is the spot with calorie-conscious Thanksgiving options.
STK Steakhouse
Is one day of Thanksgiving not enough? STK Steakhouse is offering their Signature Turkey with all the trimmings all weekend long!
TGI Fridays
Thank God it’s… someone else doing the cooking. TGI Fridays are serving the “ultimate holiday spread” on November 28th and 29th.
Dine-In Alternatives
Applebee’s
Applebee’s welcomes you to the “neighborhood” with an extensive menu and holiday combo options.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Craving chicken wings instead of turkey this year? Buffalo Wild Wings has you covered. Note: not all locations will be open Thanksgivng Day. Call your local restaurant.
IHOP
Sometimes, breakfast for dinner just hits the spot. Visit IHOP for a sweet alternative on Turkey Day. Kids eat free from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. with the purchase of an adult entree.
Kona Grill
Kona Grill will feature a “specially curated menu that showcases the best of seasonal flavors.” Additionally, they will be open for a Black Friday Retail Recovery Happy Hour until 6 p.m. on Friday, November 29th.
Ruby Tuesday
No reservations are required to celebrate Thanksgiving at Ruby Tuesday restaurant with all your friends and family. Locations open at 11 a.m.
Quick Bites
Domino’s
Late-night munchies or post-Thanksgiving shopping fuel can be satisfied by Domino’s pizza. Available for takeout and delivery. Hours vary by location.
Dunkin’
Dunkin Donuts has grab-and-go treats and drinks, which are perfect for a day on the move.
McDonald’s
You can always count on the golden arches to satisfy your salty and sweet cravings, and that is no different on Thanksgiving Day.
Popeyes
There is an ongoing debate over who has the best chicken sandwich. Treat yourself to some Popeyes and draw your own conclusion.
Starbucks
Sip on a seasonal coffee from Starbucks to combat the post-turkey food coma.
Subway
Have it your way, any day, at Subway. That includes Thanksgiving Day.
Waffle House
Waffle House stays open 365 days a year. That means you can get your favorite breakfast dishes on Turkey Day, whether it’s before or after your feast.
Wendy’s
Craving a Frosty with your Thanksgiving desserts? Wendy’s will be open for all your snack or burger needs.
Happy feasting and Happy Thanksgiving!