Restaurants offering free meals, discounts to veterans for Veterans Day 2026
Chains such as Applebee's, Chili's, IHOP, and Texas Roadhouse are joining in the tributes to U.S. Armed Forces veterans this Wednesday, November 11, with free meals, special promotions, and benefits that, in some cases, will continue over the next few weeks.
Patrick Finn, a retired veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps
In honor of Veterans Day, celebrated this Wednesday, November 11, dozens of restaurants and food chains are offering free breakfasts, lunches, and dinners to former members of the Armed Forces and active-duty service members.
According to Fox News, the promotions aim to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have defended the country. Some companies have also announced discounts and coupons that can be used after the commemorative date.
Which restaurants are offering free meals?
Among the main promotions announced for 2026 are:
- Applebee's: offers a free main course from a special menu. Beneficiaries will also receive a $5 discount card for a future visit, valid through November 29.
- Chili's: allows veterans and active-duty military personnel to choose a free meal from certain items on its menu.
- IHOP: offers its special Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo breakfast for free.
- Denny's: serves its traditional Original Grand Slam breakfast at no cost between 5:00 a.m. and noon.
- Texas Roadhouse: distributes coupons for free meals between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. They can be redeemed through May 31, 2027.
- Starbucks: offers a free small coffee to veterans, active-duty service members, and spouses of service members.
- Red Lobster: offers a free shrimp dish with fries to eligible individuals who visit participating locations.
The promotions are also listed in the official guide from the Department of Veterans Affairs, which compiles the main offers available nationwide.
Some promotions will continue after November 11
One of the highlights this year is that certain benefits will not end with the celebration.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse, for example, will offer a free dessert on November 11 and a free appetizer between November 12 and December 14 with the purchase of a full-priced main course.
Meanwhile, Texas Roadhouse coupons can be used through May 2027, while Applebee's will keep its promotional discount in effect through the end of November.
Most of these promotions require the presentation of military ID or a document verifying service in the Armed Forces. Additionally, many are limited to dine-in service and do not include drinks, taxes, or tips.
The Department of Veterans Affairs recommends confirming the terms with each establishment, as availability may vary by location.
Veterans Day is celebrated every November 11 in the United States to pay tribute to all the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces—a tradition that is also reflected in private-sector initiatives to recognize their contribution to the country.
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