Veterans Day Free Meals 2024 | Military, Retirees, Restaurants

Veterans Day free meals are a way many restaurants honor and thank active duty and military veterans for their service.

Veterans Day is celebrated on Monday, November 11, 2024 and is a federal holiday. Veterans Day should be a 3 day weekend for most federal employees, including military servicemembers

Veterans Day celebrates the service and sacrifice of all U.S. military veterans. Whether you are retired, separated, active duty, guard, reserves – this day is for you! Thank you for answering the call of a grateful nation.

Many restaurants and companies thank our veterans and active duty military personnel for their service with a free meal or discounts. This year Veterans Day falls on a Friday.

Other military discount include:

• Veterans Day Deals Near Me
• Veterans Day free meals from restaurants like Applebee's, Chili's, Dunkin', and TGI Friday's
• How to get Veterans Day free meals and freebies
• Target Veterans Day Discount

Best Veterans Day Free Meals for Active Duty & Veterans

Many thanks to all the restaurants and companies who choose to offer free meals, discounts, and deals to America's veterans. On behalf of all US military service members, thank you for your tangible support!

Here is a huge list of all the 2023 Veterans Day freebies I found.

Please share with your friends and family so they can enjoy a Monday Veterans Day free meal!

Printable List of Veterans Day Free Meals 2023

Here is a 10 page PDF printable list of Veterans Day free meals in 2023.

Download the Veterans Day Free Meal printable PDF here.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

No update in 2023 yet.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

On November 11, 2023, veterans and active duty military get a free 12″ cheese pizza at Anthony's.This free Veterans Day meal is valid at participating locations only — check with your local Anthony's to confirm participation. Valid only when dining in, and military ID is necessary.

Applebee's Veterans Day Free Meals for Veterans

Not only do Veterans eat free, they'll also receive a $5 Bounce Back Card for a future visit within a 3-week redemption window. Available on November 11, 2023 at participating Applebee's® only. Dine-in only. Not valid with other coupons or discounts.

BJ's Restaurants

On Saturday, November 11, 2023, BJ’s invites veterans with a valid military ID to dine in and enjoy a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® with any $9.95+ purchase. 

In addition to a free Pizookie®, veterans who spend more than $14.95 for dine in or takeout will receive a bounce back coupon for a free appetizer to redeem between November 12 and December 31, 2023.

Visit the BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse website for locations. 

Bob Evans

On Veterans' Day, we're honored to provide a comforting meal to veterans and active-duty military. On November 11, 2023 we'll be offering a special menu of seven homestyle favorites available to veterans and active duty military FREE* at their local Bob Evans Restaurant.

More info on Bob Evans Veterans Day deal. See special menu offers here.

Bone Fish Grill

Active-duty service members and veterans get a complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage on November 11 with valid ID.

Bang Bang Shrimp consists of crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Year round, Bonefish Grill offers a 10% off “heroes discount” to service members, veterans and first responders.

Boston Market

Buy one individual meal with a drink and get a second free at all U.S. locations; coupon (but no I.D.) is required and available at BostonMarket.com.

Available for all Veterans, service members and their families. No ID required.

Bruegger's Bagels

Active duty service members, reservists, veterans, and military spouses with valid ID can enjoy a free bagel with cream cheese. At participating bakeries only. No purchase necessary

Buffalo Wild Wings

Buffalo Wild Wings is honoring veterans and current members of the military with a free order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on Nov. 11. This offer is valid for dine-in service upon presentation of a valid ID, and is also available for walk-in/order at the counter at Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations.

Buffalo Wings & Rings

No update for 2023 yet.

Burger King Veteran's Day

Nothing official yet for 2023.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen is having a Veterans Day free meal as well. Veterans who dine-in at a participating California Pizza Kitchen location on Saturday, November 11, 2023, get a free meal and drink.

In addition to the complimentary meal, eligible guests will also receive a BOGO that can be redeemed from November 12 to November 21.

You'll need to come in uniform or bring your military ID or another proof of service to redeem this offer.

Casey's

Casey’s has a long history of supporting service members and military veterans across its 16-state footprint. As a token of gratitude, Casey’s is providing FREE COFFEE OR FOUNTAIN DRINK (any size) to veterans on Veterans Day – Saturday, Nov. 11. 

And starting this year, Casey’s is extending the same offer year-round to active military personnel and on-duty, uniformed first responders – including law enforcement, fire and EMS.   

Chick-Fil-A Veterans Day

No official update for 2023 yet.

Chili's Veterans Day

Veterans and active-duty service members get a free meal from a select menu on November 11 with proof of service. Available for in-restaurant only.

Chipotle

No official update for 2023.

Cici's PIzza

All veterans and active duty military personnel get a free buffet on November 11, 2023.

The offer is valid for dine-in only, and it does not include taxes or drink.

Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel is offering multiple deals for U.S. veterans, active duty military and supporting guests, including: On Saturday, Nov. 11, U.S. military veterans can receive a complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake with in-store purchase.

From Oct. 27-Nov. 13, Cracker Barrel invites guests to show their support for our U.S. armed forces during Military Family Appreciation Month by offering 25% off U.S. military-themed products in stores and online.  

Denny's

Denny’s will continue its annual Veterans Day tradition of giving current and former military members a free “Build Your Own Grand Slam” breakfast on Nov. 11, 2023.

Dickey's BBQ Pit

No official update for 2023.

Dunkin'

To show their support, Dunkin' Donuts is giving away free donuts to active duty military and veterans on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

This free Veterans Day donut is limited to one per customer, but no purchase or military ID is required. It's available in-store only.

Be sure to check participation at your local Dunkin’ Donuts!

Einstein Bros. Bagels

No update for 2023 yet.

Famous Dave's

The Veterans Day free meal at Famous Dave's is a Georgia chopped pork sandwich plus one side. This offer is valid all day on Saturday, November 11, at participating Famous Dave's locations. 

Valid for dine-in or to to-go, only on 11/11/23. Online ordering is permitted (use code VETERAN), but the deal is not valid for delivery. Only one meal per veteran or active military person with valid proof of service.

Farmer Boys

Courage, sacrifice and dedication – the hallmarks of a Veteran. To honor those who bravely fought for our freedom, Farmer Boys will be offering a FREE Big Cheese burger to all Veterans and active duty military on Saturday, November 11th!

The Big Cheese® is made with a ¼ lb 100% USDA fire-grilled pure beef patty, American cheese, crisp lettuce, freshly sliced tomato, dill pickles, yellow onion, and house-made thousand island dressing on a toasted sesame seed bun. 

Known for its high-quality ingredients and outstanding hospitality, Farmer Boys’ mission is to ensure that ‘farm food ain’t fast food.’ Serving award-winning burgers, all-day breakfast, delicious sandwiches, fresh salads and more, Farmer Boys has become a fan-favorite in California, Nevada, and Arizona!

The Veterans Day deal is valid with proof of service, and limited to one FREE Big Cheese® per service member. Only valid at participating locations, while supplies last, this offer cannot be combined with any other discounts, coupons, or advertised specials. The deal is not valid on delivery or mobile ordering.

Fogo de Chao

No update for 2023 yet.

Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

Visit a Freddy's near you this Veterans Day, November 11, to get a free Freddy’s Original Double with Cheese combo meal card.

You must be a veteran or active duty military to pick up the Veterans Day free meal card—no purchase necessary, but it can be redeemed by anyone through November 30, 2023.

Freedbirds World Burrito

No 2023 update.

Friendly's

Friendly's honors veterans and active military personnel with a free all-American meal on Veterans Day between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The meal includes an All-American Cheeseburger, a side of fries, and a drink. A valid military ID is required.

Golden Corral

Golden Corral© is proud of the U.S. military members who defend our country and our rights. We honor them every year with a special thank you dinner on our Military Appreciation Night.

To date, we have served over 6 million free meals to our active duty and retired military heroes. But our commitment does not stop there. Over the past 20 years, Golden Corral© restaurants and their guests together have raised over $17.5 million dollars for Disabled American Veterans.

We’re proud to have honored our active and former military members for over 20 years through Military Appreciation Night, and are looking forward to the celebration this year! 

Military Appreciation Night will be held on Monday, November 13 from 5pm – close. We will once again be honoring our military heroes with a free “thank you” meal.Military Appreciation Dinner– free meal for anyone who served in the US Military (retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard or Reserves). More info

Hooters

On Saturday November 11th, active and retired military can choose one free meal from the following special menu:

• 10-piece Boneless Wings
• Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
• Grilled Chicken Sandwich *
• Buffalo Chicken Salad
• Hooters Burger *

Beverage purchase required, Dine-in only. Offer valid on November 11, 2023 at participating locations only. Military ID or proof of service required. One offer person. Not valid with any other discounts. Menu items may vary by location. * Additional charges apply for modifications or add-ons. Other restrictions may apply.

Houlihan’s

Veterans, active duty military and military families get $10 off a $30 food purchase at participating locations on November 11. This offer is valid for in restaurant dining or for carryout.

Orders made via houlihans.com or a third-party delivery service are not eligible. Contact your nearest location for details.

Hoss’s Steak and Sea House

Hoss's Steak and Sea House offers veterans and active-duty military a 20% discount on their meal and drink on Saturday, November 11, 2023. The offer is dine-in only and available all day.

In addition, after dining at Hoss's on November 11, veterans will be given a $10 off $40 Voucher to use on their next visit. Vouchers are valid through November 30 and available while supplies last. One-time use. Visit the Hoss's Steak and Sea House for locations.

IHOP

IHOP’s Veterans Day deal is available on Nov. 11, 2023 at participating locations.

You can order from IHOP’s Veterans Day special menu any time between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Veterans Day.

Joe’s Crab Shack

We honor those who have served and invite Veterans to enjoy 20% off their meal when they dine-in this Veterans Day, November 11, 2023 from 11am – 3pm.

*Valid for parties up to 4. Dine-in only. Not valid on alcoholic beverages or retail purchases.

Kirspy Kreme

Veterans and active-duty military can start their Veterans Day off with a free breakfast at Krispy Kreme that includes a doughnut of choice and a small coffee.

Krystal

No update for 2023 yet.

LongHorn Steakhouse

No update for 2023 yet.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants

No update for 2023 yet.

McDonald's Veterans Day Discount

No update for 2023.

McGrath Fish House

On Veterans Day, McGrath's Fish House, a renowned seafood restaurant in Oregon and Washington, offers a free meal to veterans and active-duty military. Patrons must present a valid military ID or proof of service to qualify. The offer applies only to items on a special menu.

MOD Pizza

No update for 2023 yet.

Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub

On Saturday 11 November from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., enjoy a free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu with the purchase of any other entrée. Dine-in only.

Olive Garden

Free entrée from a special menu. Entrées are served with unlimited soup or house salad and garlic bread sticks.

Offer good for Veterans and active duty military; proof of service required.

On the Border

Veterans and current service members will receive a free Pick-2 Combo Meal.

Dine-in only, proof of service required. Participating locations only.

Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse – Active and retired military members can stop in to Outback on November 11 for a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree.

They'll also receive a $10 coupon that can be redeemed from 11/12/23 through 12/17/23.

Pilot Flying J

From Nov. 10-12, servicemembers and their families verified through ID.me in the myRewards Plus app will receive a free meal credit, valued up to $12. 

The offer can be redeemed through the myRewards Plus app at participating Pilot, Flying J, and One9 Fuel Network travel centers on a wide variety of food and beverage options, including hot and cold deli items, name-brand snacks, fountain drinks, Pilot coffee, and meals at participating on-site restaurants. 

The $12 Veterans Day meal credit will be a rolling balance, allowing guests to use any remaining balance the next time they stop over Veterans Day weekend during the offer period.

Qdoba Mexican Grill

No update for 2023.

Red Lobster

In honor of Veterans Day, and to thank veterans, active-duty military and reservists for their service, Red Lobster is giving away FREE printed meal vouchers* for Veterans Shrimp & Chips—featuring six hand-breaded, butterflied and lightly fried shrimp, served with cocktail sauce, as well as crispy French Fries and Coleslaw—from 11:00am to 4:00pm local time on Saturday, November 11, 2023. Guests only need to show a valid military ID or proof of service to redeem.

The voucher can be redeemed* beginning Monday, November 13 through Sunday, December 10 for dine-in only.

*Active-duty military, reserves, and veterans simply show proof of service between 11am – 4pm on 11/11/23 to attain voucher. Offer includes six Walt’s Shrimp, fries and coleslaw; beverage, tax and gratuity not included. No substitutions or modifications. Offer available at participating restaurants in the US & Canada for dine-in only between 11/13/23 – 12/10/23. One redemption per customer.

Red Robin

Veterans and active-duty military guests get a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger on Saturday, November 11, 2023 with valid ID. Dine-in only, not valid for online or to-go orders. The free meal also comes with an endless side of steak fries.

Romano's Macaroni Grill

Free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs and Spaghetti for Veterans and current military members. Must show proof of service.

Ruby Tuesday’s

Free garden bar for active and retired military on Veterans Day.

Shoney's

Veterans and service members can enjoy a free all-you-care-to-eat, freshly prepared breakfast bar Nov. 11, from open to 11 a.m. local time.

Smashburger

Enjoy a FREE Burger or Sandwich when you show a valid military ID in store on November 11th.

Sonny's BBQ

in order to show our slow-smoked appreciation, we’re offerin’ you a Free Pork Big Deal* this Veterans Day. That’s a Pulled or Sliced Pork sandwich on your choice of a toasted Bun or Garlic Bread. You also get your choice of sidekick and drink.

To get yours, head to our registration page right here, or click the photo below. We’ve partnered with ID.me to make sure verified veterans can get their coupons with no trouble. Also, you may have some questions about who is eligible for this deal, and you’ll find some answers in that same link.

*Restrictions apply. One Free Pork Big Deal per veteran with a valid coupon on 11/11/23. Available for dine-in, takeout and drive-thru. See terms and answers to frequently asked questions in the registration link above.

Starbucks Veterans Day

Veterans, active duty servicemembers, and military spouses can get a free tall (12-ounce) hot or iced brewed coffee on Veterans Day. The offer is limited to one per customer and must be ordered in store or by drive-though, not through the Starbucks app. Cold brew is not included. More info.

Sugarfire Smoke House

Sugarfire Smoke House offers active-duty and retired military members a free cheeseburger special on November 11.

Tap House Grill

Complimentary meal on Veterans Day. For service members and Veterans with proof of service. Dine-in only.

Texas de Brazil

25% off. Offer valid for up to 6 Veterans or active duty military per table/reservation. Restrictions apply. See websites for participating dates and locations.

Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse will distribute meal vouchers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vouchers can be redeemed for a dine-in or carry-out meal from a select menu.

Contact your local Texas Roadhouse for details.

TGI Friday's

Free lunch for active duty military and Veterans on Veterans Day. Valid ID or proof of service required. Dine-in only at participating locations.

Be sure to contact your local T.G.I Friday’s for details.

Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill

No official update for 2023 yet.

Twin Peaks

Corporate-owned locations are offering current and former military members a free meal from these options: chicken tenders, Carolina pulled pork sandwich, cheeseburger and the wedge.

Please call ahead to verify participation.

Village Inn

No 2023 offer yet.

Wendy's

FREE breakfast combo for active military and Veterans at participating locations. Offer valid in-restaurant or at the drive-thru.

Not valid for mobile orders or at kiosks. Proof of service required.

Yard House

Complimentary appetizer for active duty military and Veterans on Veterans Day.

7-Eleven Convenience Store

No 2023 update yet.

Credit Cards that Waive Annual Fees for Active Duty Military

Did you know Chase waives the annual fees on their best credit cards for US active duty servicemembers and military spouses? They do this every day, not just on Veterans Day.

This annual fee waiver includes ultra exclusive cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® Card.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^® Card
Learn how to apply on our partner's secure site

• $550 annual fee waived to $0 for US military + spouses with Chase MLA policy
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
• 3x Points on other Travel (airfare, hotels) after earning the $300 travel credit
• 3x Dining restaurants, takeouts, delivery
• Chase Ultimate Reward Points redeemed through Chase Travel℠ are worth 1.5 cents, a 50% bonus.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Priority Pass lounge and restaurant access with over 1300+ airport lounges worldwide
• Up to $100 application fee credit for Global Entry every 4 years
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Primary coverage with Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• No foreign transaction fees, Member FDIC
• Learn more in the Chase Sapphire Reserve review

If you're going out to dine out this Veterans Day, why not get a card that earns 3x points on restaurants, delivery, and takeout.

I can teach you how to maximize your military credit card fee waivers in my 100% free Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course course.

If you want me to email you the details on American Express military benefits, drop in your email below. I'll just send you one email only. No spam, no newsletter. Just one email with all the details.

You can also check out the best credit cards for military veterans.

How to Get Veterans Day Free Meals

Before you go, remember four things.

1. You will need some form of ID. Most companies require some form of military ID before giving you the discount. Usually a military ID card (Common Access Card, or CAC), Retired ID card, VA ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) pay stub, drivers license with veterans designation, DD214, discharge paperwork, veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, a citation or commendation, or going in uniform while be sufficient.
2. Not all locations participate. While the overall franchise or corporation may offer a Veterans Day free meal or discount, a specific location may not participate. It never hurts to call ahead and ask before you're seated so you are not surprised when the check comes.
3. Leave a nice tip! Tipping is the worst and tipping culture is sexist, racist, and classist, but that's an argument for another day. Until I complete my life long goal to get rid of tipping in the US, it's important to tip based on what the meal would have cost you before the discount.Don't stiff your waitress or waiter, they're still working just as hard whether your meal cost $100 or $0. Thank them with a nice tip!
4. This isn't a right or a privilege, but a gesture of thanks. Yes, we're all thankful for your service. If a corporation or restaurant chooses not to participate in the Veterans Day discounts or doesn't have the item you wanted available, don't throw a hissy fit. Please act like an adult. Be gracious and thankful that some organizations and companies are giving you a discount and celebrating your service on Veterans Day.

Please don't abuse this great benefit of military service that private organizations, companies, and business owners choose to give to us.

If you act entitled to perks like this, people will soon sour on giving them away. Be grateful, kind, and generous when you tip!

History of Veterans Day Free Meals

Veterans Day meals started as a tradition shortly after September 11, 2001 as a way to directly support, honor, and say “thanks” to America's military veterans.

Now, every November many companies and resturant offer freebies to active duty military and veterans. Free food for active duty, veterans, and military retirees is an easy way restaurants can give back to the military community. Enjoying a free meal on November 11th was a nice treat when I was a young lieutenant not making very much money.

Companies other than restaurants often offer a special early November military discount or freebies around November 11th. Veterans Day falls just a few weeks before Black Friday and only 6 weeks before Christmas. Companies are getting ready for the end of year sales.

A full list of the restaurants that give veterans free meals on Veterans Day 2023 include

• Applebee's
• BJ's Restaurants
• Bob Evans
• Bone Fish Grill
• Boston Market
• Bruegger's Bagels
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• California Pizza Kitchen
• Chili's
• Chipotle
• Cici's Pizza
• Cracker Barrel
• Denny's
• Dunkin'
• Famous Dave's
• Fogo de Chao
• Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers
• Freedbirds World Burrito
• Friendly's
• Golden Corral
• Hooters
• Houlihan’s
• IHOP
• Joe’s Crab Shack
• Krispy Kreme
• Krystal
• LongHorn Steakhouse
• McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants
• McGrath Fish House
• Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
• Olive Garden
• On the Border
• Outback Steakhouse
• Pilot Flying J
• Red Lobster
• Red Robin
• Romano's Macaroni Grill
• Ruby Tuesday’s
• Sonny's BBQ
• Starbucks
• Tap House Grill
• Texas de Brazil
• Texas Roadhouse
• TGI Friday's
• Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill
• Twin Peaks
• Village Inn
• Yard House

Frequently Asked Questions