16 Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day (Plus 12 That Are Closed)

Turkey time

For some, Thanksgiving is a day best spent cooking in the kitchen. But there are plenty of families who would rather have someone else cook. According to a recent study42% of consumers will order takeaway or eat turkey dinner at a restaurant this year.

If you’re in that group, here are some of the chain restaurants and fast food places that will be open on Nov. 28 for Thanksgiving — and some that won’t.

Note: We recommend calling your local restaurant to confirm opening hours.

1. Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrels will be open regular hours on Thanksgiving. You can have a turkey dinner at the restaurant or order a family-sized Thanksgiving meal if you don’t feel like cooking.

2. Denny’s

America’s favorite diner will most likely be open on Thanksgiving, but it’s best to check the hours at your location to be sure.

3. Golden Corral

Golden Corral is always open on Thanksgiving. If you have many picky eaters or different tastes in your family, a buffet is a great thing. The chain will also have meals back.

4. Applebee’s

You should find that most Applebee’s in your area are open on Turkey Day, although they sometimes have reduced hours, so call ahead.

5. The capital grid

Steakhouse The Capital Grille will be open on Thanksgiving if you fancy a delicious dinner. Special menus will be offered for adults and children.

6. IHOP

IHOP is open 24/7, and Thanksgiving is no exception. So if you’re really in the mood for a pancake breakfast or pancakes late at night after an early dinner, the chain is here for you.

7. McDonald’s

Most McDonald’s locations should be open Thursday. Like all of these restaurants, though, it’s best to double-check hours before heading out for your McNuggets.

8. Jack in the box

Jack in the Box will be open, depending on the location. Sometimes you just feel good after shopping with the family all day, you know?

9. Hutters

Hooters is probably not the first restaurant that comes to mind on Thanksgiving, but consider that there are a few football games on. Most locations will be open from 4pm to midnight, but some open earlier in cities with NFL teams playing during the day.

10. Fogo de Chao

This Brazilian-style steakhouse will be open on Thanksgiving from 11 a.m. to 21.00. Servers walking around bringing meat to your plate sounds like a great way to celebrate.

11. Whataburger

WhataburgerThe Texas favorite, will be open on Thanksgiving. Double-check your location’s timer before you go over, though.

12. Buca di Beppo

Although there aren’t a ton of locations left, Buca di Beppo is open on Thursday for all your spaghetti needs. You can also order a family-style takeaway meal.

13. Maggiano’s Little Italy

Have an Italian feast for Thanksgiving, served family style in large platters for a homey feel. Options include turkey, salmon, pasta and salads.

14. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Fancy Ruth’s Chris is taking reservations for turkey day. They serve set menus for both adults and children.

15. Waffle parlor

We all know Waffle House never closes (except for major hurricanes!), so of course they’ll be open on Thanksgiving, too. Be sure to get a pecan waffle for that seasonal flair.

16. Bob Evans

Down home restaurant Bob Evans is open from 8am to 7pm on Thanksgiving for dine-in and takeout meals, including breakfast.

Restaurants that may be open

Some restaurant chains leave it up to their franchisees to open on Thanksgiving or not. These are chains that may be open near you, but you need to check by calling ahead.

• Starbucks

• Arby’s

• Burger King

• Dairy Queen

• Domino’s

• Dunkin’

• Panera

• Pizza Hut

Restaurants that are closed

There are plenty of chain restaurants that are closed entirely on Thanksgiving. You’ll have to skip these if you’re looking for a bite to eat on Thursday.

• Chick-fil-A

• Chipotle

• In-N-Out

• Jersey Mike’s

• Olive garden

• Taco Bell

• Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr.

• Outback Steakhouse

• Chillies

• Red lobster

• Texas Roadhouse

• First shift

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This article was originally published on Cheapness

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