Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on Living on the Cheap.
Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, diners can cross a stress-free meal off their holiday wish list. A number of restaurant chains will be open for business on Christmas Day 2021, including low-cost and moderately priced options.
As always, we urge you to call ahead and confirm, as some independently operated franchises opt to close on Christmas or limit their hours. Please follow your region and restaurant’s guidelines to have a happy and healthy holiday.
The following restaurant chains will be open on Christmas Day.
Denny’s
Christmas is Denny’s busiest day of the year, and many locations intend to roll out the food again this year too, but certainly call ahead to check the status and holiday hours for your location.
They’ll have all their usual dishes (breakfast, lunch and dinner available any time), as well as a turkey and dressing plate. Prices vary by location.
IHOP
IHOP is open all day with a holiday menu. (Its 24-hour restaurants will keep to schedule, while hours may vary at other locations). Call your local restaurant for details.
Luby’s
Luby’s Christmas Day Special includes your choice of entree with two sides and bread: prime rib for $15.99 or apple-cranberry pork chop for $13.99. Dessert and drinks are extra.
McDonald’s
Some participating McDonald’s locations are open. Call ahead to confirm.
Panda Express
Panda Express is open on Christmas Day at many locations. Is yours one of them? Give them a call!
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Not all Perkins Restaurant & Bakery locations will be open on Christmas Day, but the ones that will are planning a special menu beyond the usual breakfasts and burgers. Call your local restaurant location to see if they will be open.
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Eleven Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse locations will be open Dec. 25; see the hours here. Reservations are necessary and can be made online.
Shoney’s
Most Shoney’s locations are open on Dec. 25 beginning at 11 a.m. Contact your nearest location to verify.
Starbucks
Most free-standing Starbucks locations will be open. Check the mobile app to see the status of the ones close to you.
Village Inn
Some Village Inn locations will be open all day (though hours may vary by location), but check with your local franchise. Be sure to get a slice of Candy Cane pie.
Waffle House
Some Waffle House locations will be open; call before visiting.
Other dining options
Not in the mood for standard fare such as turkey or ham? Look to your neighborhood ethnic restaurants. Many Chinese, Middle Eastern and Indian eateries are open on Christmas for lunch and/or dinner.
Looking for a more formal dining experience? Check OpenTable. The online restaurant reservations site lists upscale restaurants (the kind that take reservations) open on Christmas Day. You can search by city.
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