It might be the season for roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, but if preparing all of that sounds more distressing than it does a blessing, you might just want to eat out. Thankfully, lots of restaurants are staying open on Thanksgiving so you’ll have your choice of places to dine. Just be sure to call ahead (and make a reservation when possible!), as some locations may have altered hours.
Put the “Happy” back in “Thanksgiving” and get to any one of these restaurants on November 28 (or considering picking up a side or two for take-out to save time at home):
Applebee’s
All Applebee’s locations will be open on Thanksgiving Eve, and lots will be open on Thanksgiving Day, too. Be sure to call ahead if Applebee’s is your choice.
Bahama Breeze
If drinking a Mai Tai with your turkey sounds more your speed, enjoy Thanksgiving at Bahama Breeze. The restaurants is putting a tropical twist on its turkey and other classic Thanksgiving menu items (think jerk turkey, cranberry-pineapple chutney).
Bob Evans
Bob Evans is known for its classic comfort food and all the fixins’ all year long, so it would be a natural pick for Thanksgiving dinner.
Boston Market
Nearly all locations will be open and serving a piping hot Thanksgiving meal.
Buca di Beppo
For an Italian twist on Turkey Day, head to Buca di Beppo this year. Their Thanksgiving offerings include turkey, gravy, spicy Italian sausage, and garlicky mashed potatoes. It’s best to make a reservation.
Buffalo Wild Wings
If you’re more a fan of chicken wings done your way than you are of freshly carved turkey, head to BWWs. Just a reminder, check the hours at your local restaurant before heading out for your feast.
Chart House
Enjoy a nice Thanksgiving meal at the Chart House, but be sure to make a reservation. Most locations are quite busy on this holiday.
Chili’s
Yes, you can get your fill of baby back ribs, even on Turkey Day.
Cracker Barrel
Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year at the Cracker Barrel, so be sure to call ahead. Restaurants will be open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dine-in and carry-out options available.
Already have plans Thanksgiving day? Cracker Barrel actually serves Thanksgiving dinner every Thursday of the year — just ask for the Thursday Turkey N’ Dressing special.
Denny’s
When Denny’s says they’re open 24/7/365, they mean it. All Denny’s locations will be open so you can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Thanksgiving Day.
Fogo de Chão
If steak is more your speed than turkey, head to Fogo de Chão. The Brazilian steakhouse will be open. Be sure to call ahead for hours.
Golden Corral
Golden Corral is ready for Thanksgiving Day customers with an extensive pay-by-weight special holiday buffet.
HomeTown Buffet
HomeTown Buffett is open on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a holiday menu served all day.
Hooters
Head to Hooters for football and more. Locations will be open, but call ahead.
IHOP
What better way to kick off your Thanksgiving Day than with some pumpkin spice pancakes?
Legal Sea Foods
Think turkey is as traditional as it gets? Legal Sea Foods has some (sea)food for thought: “It’s said that the first Thanksgiving featured shellfish and fish. So join us for a traditional Thanksgiving.” Or you can opt for their traditional turkey dinner special instead.
McCormick and Schmick’s
McCormick and Schmick’s is open every year on Thanksgiving so you can enjoy a complete turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, gravy, butternut squash bisque, and more. Dinner will be available all day.
Medieval Times
Looking to do something really different this Thanksgiving? Most Medieval Times castles will be open on Thanksgiving. Call your nearest location for details.
Popeye’s
Popeye’s isn’t just about chicken. Select locations will be serving 13-16 pound pre-cooked Cajun Style Turkeys. Yum!
Ruby Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday will be open on Thanksgiving Day and serving their regular menu.
Starbucks
Now that you’re not stuck in the kitchen cooking, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving morning. And what better way can you think of than with a festive Pumpkin Spice Latte. Starbucks will be open, but hours may vary, so call ahead.
Subway
Yes, if you’re someone who has to work Thanksgiving Day, you might not have the luxury of a Thanksgiving feast. Swing by Subway for a tasty turkey sandwich. Many franchise locations will be open.
T.G.I.Friday’s
T.G.I.Friday’s will be open and serving their regular menu on Thanksgiving Day.
The Capital Grille
Really want to feast? The Capital Grille is serving an extensive Thanksgiving Day menu. Reservations highly recommended.
Waffle House
Yup. Waffle House is open 24 hours every single day of the year. Thanksgiving is no exception.
Also see, How many calories will you eat at Thanksgiving dinner?
