Restaurants Open on Christmas Day: Your Guide to Holiday Dining in 2025
Find festive menus and stress-free dining options for celebrating in style.
Whether you prefer pancakes at dawn, a lavish steak dinner, or just skipping dish duty, spending Christmas Day dining out is more popular and easier than ever. Restaurants across the country—from family-favorites to upscale eateries—are keeping their doors open this December 25th, delivering cheer, festive menus, and warm hospitality for every holiday craving.
Why Dine Out on Christmas?
- No Cooking or Cleanup: Enjoy a special meal without the work or mess.
- Festive Specials: Savor holiday-inspired menus and limited seasonal offerings.
- All Are Welcome: Perfect for families, friends, or solo diners who want to celebrate in style.
- Flexible Dining: Options range from breakfast to midnight snacks; dine-in, takeout, and delivery included.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas Day
- Check Local Hours: Holiday hours vary by location and franchise. Confirm directly before you go.
- Make Reservations: Christmas is a busy dining day, and many restaurants fill up early.
- Pre-Order If Needed: Some chains offer pre-cooked holiday meals for pick-up.
- Consider Takeout: For a cozy meal at home, ask about special takeout options and catering.
Popular Chains and Restaurants Open on Christmas Day 2025
Whether you crave a classic American diner breakfast or want a memorable dinner, these chains have you covered. Note: hours and offerings may change based on location and year. Always call ahead or check the restaurant’s website for the most accurate information.
Applebee’s
Many Applebee’s locations welcome guests on December 25th with full menus of burgers, ribs, pasta, and signature appetizers. Holiday-themed cocktails and desserts often make appearances, too. Hours depend on each franchise.
Benihana
For an exciting teppanyaki-table experience, Benihana opens select locations for lunch and dinner. Enjoy show-stopping steak, seafood, veggie dishes, sushi, and saké in a festive setting. Reservations recommended due to high demand.
Bonefish Grill
Seafood fans can book a table at Bonefish Grill, where holiday specials like wood-grilled fish, lobster, and premium steaks join regular favorites. Some locations offer exclusive Christmas Day menus or adapted holiday hours.
Boston Market
Boston Market is a go-to for classic home-style holiday meals. Their convenient Christmas Day dine-in, takeout, or delivery options include rotisserie turkey, ham, brisket, and sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pies. Check for “Heat & Serve” pre-order meal packages as well.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Looking for a sports bar vibe? Select Buffalo Wild Wings locations serve wings, burgers, and beer with televised games throughout Christmas Day. Most locations have reduced hours, so check before heading over.
Cracker Barrel
Note: Cracker Barrel is closed on Christmas Day but remains a top pick for Christmas Eve gatherings. Guests can order signature country favorites, including country-fried turkey and partake in holiday drinks like a sparkling plum mimosa. Their “Heat N’ Serve” holiday meals and seasonal treats are available to carry out and enjoy with your family at home during the holiday week.
Del Frisco’s Grille
Step up the holiday celebration at Del Frisco’s Grille with chef-inspired dishes. Christmas Day highlights often include premium steak selections (such as wagyu chateaubriand with caviar butter), seasonal cocktails—Don’t miss Santa’s Sleigh Ride—and an acclaimed wine list. Availability varies by city; reservations strongly encouraged.
Del Taco
For an informal, wallet-friendly feast, Del Taco opens on Christmas Day with its regular menu. Download their app for holiday deals, free menu items, and exclusive discounts through Christmas Eve. Great for quick meals on the go or late-night cravings.
Denny’s
Denny’s is a perennial favorite for 24/7 breakfast, lunch, and dinner—Christmas included. Look for signature platters, festive pancake flavors, and family meal packages available dine-in or to-go. Most are open all day, but verify with your local branch.
Domino’s Pizza
Pizza on Christmas? Yes, please! Some Domino’s stores stay open for part or all of the day, offering pizza, pastas, and chicken wings for pick-up or delivery. Franchise-specific hours apply, so check in advance.
Dunkin’
Grab that essential Christmas coffee, donut, or breakfast sandwich at participating Dunkin’ stores. Many locations shorten hours for the holiday. Download the Dunkin’ app for seasonal treats and order ahead convenience.
IHOP
There’s no cozier way to start Christmas than with a stack of IHOP pancakes. Most locations serve their full breakfast menu, including festive options like gingerbread or eggnog pancakes, along with classic combos and lunch fare. Family feasts are also available to go.
Kona Grill
Kona Grill’s globally inspired American cuisine shines on Christmas Day with special surf and turf, roasted turkey, creative holiday cocktails (try Santa’s eggnog), and a wide range of sushi and gourmet entrees.
McDonald’s
Many McDonald’s restaurants welcome holiday travelers and families for breakfast, burgers, and fries. Hours vary widely, especially for mall and gas station locations; drive-thrus often have extended availability.
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Enjoy a traditional Italian meal on Christmas at Romano’s Macaroni Grill, open usually from noon to 8 pm. Popular plates include chicken scallopini, Mom’s ricotta meatballs, and freshly made pasta. They also provide festive desserts and Italian wines. Takeout and dine-in are both available.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Treat the family to an indulgent steak dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. On Christmas Day, the menu features signature sizzling steaks, fresh seafood, classic sides, and specialty desserts in an upscale setting. Reservations required, with exact hours varying by location.
Shoney’s
A Southern staple, Shoney’s offers a Christmas buffet with carved ham and turkey, an array of hot sides, and plenty of desserts. Walk-ins are welcome, but due to the popularity, larger groups should call ahead and reserve a table.
Other Notable Restaurants With Holiday Dining
- Antica Pesa (NYC): Four-course Italian dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with prix fixe menus.
- Feste at The Standard, East Village: Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve; brunch on Christmas Day. Features seafood-forward plates and festive décor.
- BLACKBARN Restaurant (NYC): Farm-to-table American cuisine, pre-fixe and a la carte holiday menus, including eggnog cheesecake.
- Delmonico’s (NYC): Legendary steakhouse serving three-course Christmas dinners featuring yellowtail crudo, specialty steaks, and baked Alaska.
Table: At-a-Glance Guide to Christmas Day Restaurant Options
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Typical Hours | Special Offerings | Reservation Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denny’s | American Diner | 24/7 | Holiday pancakes, family feasts | No |
| IHOP | American/Diner | 6am–10pm (varies) | Seasonal pancakes, all-day breakfast | Recommended |
| Ruth’s Chris Steak House | Steakhouse | Varies | Premium steaks, seafood | Yes |
| Romano’s Macaroni Grill | Italian | 12pm–8pm | Italian holiday dishes, desserts | Yes |
| Shoney’s | Family Buffet | Varies | Holiday buffet | Recommended |
| Boston Market | Home-style | Varies | Turkey, ham, holiday takeout | Recommended |
| Kona Grill | American/Global | Normal/Extended | Surf & turf, cocktails | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are most chain restaurants open on Christmas Day?
A: Many national chains are open, but not all. Always check local hours, as franchisees may opt to close or adjust operating times for the holiday.
Q: Do restaurants offer special Christmas menus?
A: Several chains roll out limited-time holiday menus, featuring festive entrees and desserts. Upscale restaurants and steakhouses often have prix fixe or curated holiday menus as well.
Q: Is pre-ordering holiday meals for pick-up an option?
A: Yes! Many restaurants, especially Boston Market, Cracker Barrel (for Christmas Eve and week), and major chains, offer “heat & serve” takeout meals and catering ahead of Christmas Day.
Q: How far in advance should I make a reservation?
A: As early as possible—up to several weeks in advance for popular spots. Christmas reservations fill quickly.
Q: Are there options for solo diners and small parties?
A: Absolutely! Denny’s, IHOP, and many casual chains seat individuals and small groups with no problem. Higher-end restaurants may book up, so call ahead if dining alone.
Final Tips for a Joyful Christmas Meal Out
- Plan Ahead: Favor popular chains for a reliable meal, but try regional gems for a unique touch.
- Confirm Details: Menus and holiday hours may change year to year and by location.
- Bring the Holiday Spirit: Dress festively, tip generously, and wish your restaurant staff a Merry Christmas—they’re celebrating, too!
References
- https://www.cozymeal.com/magazine/restaurants-open-on-christmas-day
- https://brooklynslifestyle.com/restaurants-open-on-christmas-day-in-nyc/
- https://www.timeout.com/newyork/restaurants/christmas-eve-and-christmas-day-dinner-at-nyc-restaurants
- https://secretnyc.co/best-restaurants-open-on-christmas-and-christmas-eve-in-nyc/
- https://www.opentable.com/events/christmas-day/metro/new-york-area
- https://www.opentable.com/events/christmas-day/region/manhattan
- https://mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/restaurants/restaurants-open-christmas-dinner-takeout-delivery-nyc
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