Restaurants Open on Memorial Day 2025: Where to Eat and Celebrate

Restaurants Open on Memorial Day 2025: Your Complete Guide

Memorial Day is more than just a kickoff to summer—it’s a time to honor those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. It’s also an occasion for family, friends, and great food. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a lakeside picnic, or just want to skip the cooking altogether, knowing which restaurants are open on Memorial Day 2025 can help make your day stress-free and delicious.

Why Dining Out on Memorial Day Makes Sense

Many people use Memorial Day as an opportunity to step away from the kitchen and enjoy a relaxed meal with loved ones. With the wide array of restaurants operating on this federal holiday, you have plenty of choices, from classic diners and family-friendly chains to your favorite steakhouses and seafood spots. Just remember to check with your local locations as individual restaurant hours may vary, and some may offer special holiday menus.

Top Restaurants Open on Memorial Day 2025

Here’s a curated list of popular chain restaurants set to open their doors on Memorial Day, May 26, 2025. While most are operating regular hours, always verify with your nearest location for potential holiday adjustments or special offerings.

• Olive Garden
  All Olive Garden locations are open on Memorial Day. Whether you crave unlimited breadsticks, hearty pastas, or famous salads, this Italian favorite is ready to serve you. Check your local Olive Garden for specific hours and reservations.
• Outback Steakhouse
  If steak is your holiday tradition, Outback Steakhouse welcomes you from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy their full menu, including classic Aussie entrées and signature sides.
• Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
  Famous for breakfast classics, family feasts, and delightful pies, Perkins will be open. Try their Great American Pancake Trio or treat everyone to a Strawberry Pie after your barbecue.
• P.F. Chang’s
  Craving Asian cuisine? P.F. Chang’s offers their iconic Chicken Lettuce Wraps and more, open during normal business hours for dine-in or takeout.
• Red Lobster
  Seafood lovers rejoice! Red Lobster serves up family-sized feasts and classic dishes—think snow crab, linguine alfredo, and shrimp platters—available for dine-in, pickup, catering, or delivery.
• Ruth’s Chris Steak House
  Some Ruth’s Chris locations open for Memorial Day, perfect for a special occasion meal. Check online for your nearest location’s holiday hours and reservation availability.
• Denny’s
  Always open and serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24/7, Denny’s is a solid choice for early risers or late-night diners on Memorial Day.
• IHOP
  International House of Pancakes stays open to fuel your family with pancakes, omelets, and more festive breakfast treats.
• TGI Fridays
  Looking for classic American fare and a spirited atmosphere? TGI Fridays welcomes guests on Memorial Day, so enjoy their burgers, wings, and famous appetizers.
• Buffalo Wild Wings
  Gather with friends and family over wings, fries, and sports on TV at Buffalo Wild Wings. Most locations open regular hours on the holiday.
• Starbucks
  Need your caffeine fix or a quick breakfast? Most Starbucks locations remain open, but check hours at your neighborhood shop.
• Dunkin’
  Grab a donut, breakfast sandwich, or coffee at Dunkin’—open for your morning Memorial Day needs.
• McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King
  The country’s top fast-food chains are open on Memorial Day, offering burgers, fries, and beverages for a quick, family-friendly meal.
• Cracker Barrel
  Enjoy down-home cooking and a charming country store. Cracker Barrel will be open, but note that some locations may be undergoing décor updates for a fresh, brighter ambiance.
• Chili’s Grill & Bar
  Spice things up with Tex-Mex favorites and signature cocktails at Chili’s, open for both dine-in and carryout on the holiday.
• Applebee’s
  Neighborhood favorite Applebee’s invites you to relax over American classics and comfort food on Memorial Day.
• Bonefish Grill
  Seafood and innovative cocktails await at Bonefish Grill, which remains open for both brunch and dinner service.
• Cheesecake Factory
  Satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy a vast menu of entrées at the Cheesecake Factory, open normal hours for dine-in or takeout.
• Chipotle Mexican Grill
  Customize burritos, bowls, and tacos at Chipotle—open for quick dine-in or carryout service.
• Texas Roadhouse
  Known for steaks and legendary rolls, Texas Roadhouse serves up hearty meals for Memorial Day diners.
• Maggiano’s Little Italy
  Family-style Italian dishes make any holiday special, and Maggiano’s is open for both in-restaurant dining and to-go orders.

Table: Restaurant Hours Snapshot (Memorial Day 2025)

Tip: While many chains aim to keep regular hours, some locations may close early, open late, or offer shortened menus. It never hurts to call ahead or check online before heading out.

Memorial Day Weekend: What to Know and Celebrate

Memorial Day, observed every last Monday in May, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring fallen servicemen and women. In 2025, Memorial Day falls on May 26. The weekend, running from Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26, has become synonymous with gatherings, parades, and the unofficial start of summer. Aside from remembering those who served, it’s a chance for Americans to revel in the warmer weather, indulge in classic cookouts, and spend quality time together.

Holiday Traditions and Activities

• Family Barbecues and Picnics: Take advantage of the sunshine with outdoor meals and watermelon slices.
• Parades and Patriotic Events: Attend or watch a local parade to honor the military and enjoy band performances.
• Flag Displays: Fly the American flag at your home or join a community flag-raising ceremony.
• Memorial Visits: Take time to visit or decorate the graves of veterans and fallen heroes.
• Ceremonies and Concerts: Tune into the National Memorial Day Concert for a moving musical tribute.

Creative Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day

Beyond dining out, there are plenty of ways to add meaning and fun to your Memorial Day celebration:

• Set Up a Snack and Drinks Station: Make self-serve refreshments easy for guests with a simple backyard setup. Add festive red, white, and blue touches to your tablescape.
• Visit a National Park: Experience the great outdoors and honor the holiday by exploring America’s natural beauty. Many parks offer free or discounted entry on federal holidays.
• Volunteer for Veterans: Give back by helping build or renovate homes for veterans. Organizations like Building Homes for Heroes® and Homes for Our Troops often need volunteers and donations.
• Get Creative with Sidewalk Chalk: Have the kids (and adults!) craft patriotic murals or messages as a colorful tribute in your neighborhood.
• Bake Patriotic Treats: From cupcakes to pies, bake something festive in red, white, and blue. These desserts are a perfect way to cap off your celebration.

Important Reminders for Memorial Day Dining

• Reservations: Some full-service restaurants fill up quickly, especially for larger groups. Book ahead when possible.
• Takeout & Delivery: Many chains offer convenient takeout, curbside pickup, or delivery—ideal for picnics or at-home gatherings.
• Special Menus: Look out for holiday-themed specials, family feast packages, or limited-time desserts.
• Check for Updates: Restaurant décor and ambiance can change, like recent remodels at select Cracker Barrel locations. If a favorite location looks different, it’s part of an effort to create a more inviting and comfortable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dining Out on Memorial Day

Which restaurants are definitely open on Memorial Day 2025?

Large chain restaurants such as Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Perkins, P.F. Chang’s, Red Lobster, and more are confirmed to be open on Memorial Day 2025. It’s always a good idea to confirm with your nearest location for specific hours.

Will fast food chains be open on Memorial Day?

Yes, most national fast food chains—such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, and Dunkin’—will remain open, though some may have modified hours.

Is it better to dine in or order takeout on Memorial Day?

That depends on your plans. Dine-in is great for a sit-down family meal, while takeout or delivery is ideal for a picnic or backyard gathering. Many eateries offer special takeout bundles for the holiday.

Are there any special deals or menus for Memorial Day?

Some restaurants offer holiday-themed specials, family-sized meal packages, or discounts. Check online or call ahead to learn about any current promotions.

Why do some restaurants update their décor around Memorial Day?

Restaurants like Cracker Barrel have begun refreshing select locations to create a brighter and cleaner atmosphere, sometimes in response to customer feedback and to enhance the overall dining experience.

Plan Ahead for a Memorable Memorial Day

With so many restaurants open and ready to welcome guests, you have every reason to enjoy a meal out without the hassle of cooking or cleanup. Memorial Day is a time for remembrance, gratitude, and togetherness—so make the most of your long weekend. Whether you opt for a festive restaurant meal, a scenic park picnic, or a backyard barbecue with takeout, the most important ingredient is sharing it with the people who matter most.

Happy Memorial Day 2025—may it be filled with good food, happy memories, and meaningful moments!

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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