40+ Restaurants Open on Christmas Day 2025: The Ultimate Guide
The magic of Christmas Day is undeniable, but the stress of preparing a massive holiday feast can be overwhelming. This year, why not hang up the apron, relax, and let someone else do the cooking? Finding a great restaurant open on December 25th is a lifesaver, whether you’re traveling, have a small gathering, or simply want a stress-free holiday.
To help you plan, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to major restaurant chains across the USA and Canada that are typically open on Christmas Day.
Crucial Note: Hours and participation can vary greatly by location. Always call your local restaurant ahead of time to confirm their Christmas Day hours before you go!
Fast Food & Quick Bites Open on Christmas
For travelers on the road or anyone needing a quick and easy meal.
- McDonald’s: Many locations, especially those in travel plazas, remain open.
- Burger King: Select locations will be open, often with reduced hours.
- Starbucks: Need a caffeine fix? Many Starbucks stores are open, especially in the morning.
- Dunkin’: Your go-to for coffee and donuts, many locations will operate on a holiday schedule.
- Domino’s: Perfect for a Christmas pizza night, many Domino’s locations will be open for delivery or carryout.
- Pizza Hut: Another great option for a festive pizza meal.
- Panda Express: Craving some Orange Chicken? Many locations will be open.
- Wendy’s: Select locations will be open for your burger fix.
- Subway: As many are franchisee-owned, hours will vary widely, but some will be open.
- Papa John’s: Check with your local store for holiday hours.
- Jack in the Box: Primarily on the West Coast, many locations are open 24/7.
- Sonic Drive-In: Hours vary, but many locations will be serving.
- Arby’s: Some locations will be open, so be sure to call ahead.
Casual Sit-Down & Family Restaurants Open on Christmas
For a relaxed, traditional meal without the cleanup.
- Denny’s: Famous for being “Always Open,” Denny’s is a reliable choice for a full Christmas meal.
- IHOP (International House of Pancakes): Get your festive pancakes here! Most IHOP locations are open.
- Waffle House: A Southern staple, Waffle House is famously open 24/7, 365 days a year.
- Applebee’s: Many locations open their doors on Christmas, often starting in the late afternoon.
- TGI Fridays: Looking for a festive atmosphere? Select Fridays locations will be ready to serve you.
- Huddle House: Similar to Waffle House, this chain is known for being open for local communities.
- Perkins Restaurant & Bakery: A great choice for a family-friendly meal and a slice of holiday pie.
- Boston Market: Perfect for a traditional holiday meal with turkey and classic sides.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Catch a holiday game and grab some wings; many locations are open.
- Chili’s: Check your local Chili’s, as many will open with limited hours.
- Golden Corral: Many locations offer a special Christmas Day buffet.
- Shoney’s: Known for their holiday buffets, a Southern tradition.
- Village Inn: A reliable spot for breakfast and holiday pies.
- Marie Callender’s: Famous for its pies, a perfect choice for a holiday meal.
Steakhouses & Fine Dining Open on Christmas
For a more upscale and special holiday dining experience.
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House: A classic choice for a high-end Christmas dinner. Reservations are essential.
- Morton’s The Steakhouse: Another premium steakhouse that typically opens for a special holiday service.
- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: A great choice for a celebratory meal.
- Del Frisco’s Grille: Offers a modern and upscale dining experience.
- Benihana: Looking for dinner and a show? Benihana’s teppanyaki experience is a fun way to celebrate.
- Maggiano’s Little Italy: Enjoy a family-style Italian-American feast.
- The Capital Grille: An elegant option for a luxurious Christmas dinner.
- Fogo de Chão: An all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse perfect for a big holiday appetite.
- McCormick & Schmick’s: A well-known seafood and steak place often open on holidays.
- Smith & Wollensky: A classic high-end steakhouse with holiday hours.
- Buca di Beppo: Fun, family-style Italian dining perfect for large groups.
- STK Steakhouse: A trendy, modern steakhouse option for a stylish holiday meal.
- Kona Grill: Offers a diverse menu from sushi to American classics.
- Legal Sea Foods: A great option, especially on the East Coast, for a holiday seafood meal.
A Few Final Tips for Christmas Day Dining
- Make Reservations NOW: For any sit-down restaurant, especially the fine dining options, reservations are an absolute must. They fill up weeks in advance.
- Confirm, Confirm, Confirm: We can’t say it enough. Call your local franchise to double-check their hours.
- Be Patient and Tip Well: Restaurant staff are working on a major holiday to serve you. A little extra patience and a generous tip go a long way in spreading holiday cheer.
- Consider the Whole Family: Planning a meal out can be a great family activity. If you’re wondering if your furry family member can join, check out our guide to dog-friendly restaurants for spots with heated patios.
The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Restaurants (USA & Canada 2025)
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