Veterans Day Free Meals 2023| Military, Retirees, Restaurants

Veterans Day free meals are a traditional way many restaurants honor and thank active duty and military veterans for their service. Veterans Day is celebrated on Saturday, November 11, 2023 and is a federal holiday.

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:

• Credit cards that waive annual fees for active duty military
• 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
• Amazon Prime Veterans Day Discount
• Target Veterans Day Discount

Credit Cards that Waive Annual Fees for US Military

Did you know American Express and Chase waive 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 includes even ultra exclusive cards like The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express
Learn how to apply on our partner's secure site

• Annual fee of $695 waived for US military personnel and spouses
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 5x points on airfare booked directly with airline or on amextravel.com up to $500,000 per calendar year
• Earn 5x points on prepaid hotels at amextravel.com
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card^®.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, The New York Times, and other participating providers. Enrollment required.
• $200 Uber Cash: Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on Uber Eats and rides
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at 1 qualifying airline
• $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit, can be used for gift cards, enrollment required
• 40 Centurion Lounges and 1200+ Priority Pass airport lounge access for free
• $189 CLEAR® Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back each year on an Equinox+ subscription, or any Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.
• No foreign transaction fees
• Heavy metal card that looks and feels really cool. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card^®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• The Platinum Card^® from American Express – learn how to apply
• Read my full review of the Amex Platinum card for military, terms apply

If you're going out to dine out this Veterans Day, why not get a card that earns 4x points on restaurants, delivery, takeout, and groceries (including overseas Commissaries)?

The American Express® Gold Card (review) usually has an annual fee, but that fee is waived for active duty and their spouses.

American Express^® Gold Card
Learn how to apply on our partner's secure site

• $250 Annual Fee waived for US military and spouses
• Earn 60,000 Membership Reward^® Points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new card in the first 6 months of Card Membership
• Earn 4x points at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the US
• Earn 4x points on US supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year, then 1x points) – includes OCONUS Commissaries
• Earn 3x points on flights booked directly with the airline or on amextravel.com
• No foreign transaction fees – great for the 4x on restaurants when travelling for fun, OCONUS TDY, or PCS!
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Amex Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 annually.
• $120 per year Dining Credit: Earn up to $10 per month in statement credits when you use your Amex Gold at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Molk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Choose between the Gold or Rose Gold version when you apply.
• Read my full review of the Amex Gold card for military, terms apply

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

Also check out the best credit cards for military veterans.

Best Veterans Day Free Meals for Active Duty + Vets

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 servicemembers, 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 printable PDF here.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

FREE Patriot French Toast Combo & Coffee* this Veterans Day, Friday, November 11th.

*Available for dine-in only at participating cafes. Limit one per person. No purchase necessary. Valid 11/11/2022 only while supplies last. More info.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

Veterans and active-duty military receive a free 12-inch cheese pizza on Veterans Day.

Applebee's Veterans Day Free Meals for Veterans

This Veterans Day, Friday, November 11, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar will give thanks to all Active Duty Military, Veterans, Reserves, and National Guard with the offer of an in-restaurant complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive menu created just for them.* As a token of gratitude, when dining at Applebee’s on November 11, these special guests will also receive a $5 Bounce Back Card to redeem for dine-in, To Go, or delivery within a three-week redemption window.

Applebee's Veterans Day 2022 menu includes:

• 6 oz. Top Sirloin
• Double Crunch Shrimp
• Fiesta Lime Chicken
• Chicken Tenders Platter
• Classic Bacon Cheeseburger
• Oriental Chicken Salad
• Three-Cheese Chicken Penne

All Veterans and Active Duty Military who visit an Applebee’s in the United States on November 11 will receive a free meal and $5 towards their next meal. Available on November 11, 2022, at participating Applebee’s® only. Dine-in only. Not valid with other coupons or discounts. Beverage and gratuity not included. U.S. Veterans and Active Duty Military simply show proof of military service. Proof of service includes U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), veterans' organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation. Limit 1 meal per U.S. Veteran or Active Duty Military.

Applebee's has served nearly 10.8 million fee meals to vets over the last 15 years. They have one of the longest running free meals for vets program.

BJ's Restaurants

Current and former military who dine in-restaurant on November 11, 2022 will enjoy a complimentary meal from the select menu below and a dr pepper® beverage.†

Choose any of the free options listed below:
• bacon cheeseburger
• bacon-guacamole deluxe burger
• deep dish ziti
• grilled chicken alfredo
• jumbo spaghetti and meatballs
• soup/salad combo
• parmesan-crusted chicken
• mediterranean chicken pita tacos
• classic crispy chicken sandwich
Must present military id or other proof of service. More details.

Bob Evans

Nov. 11, 2022. Bob Evans will offer a special menu of 10 homestyle favorites available to veterans and active-duty military free at their local Bob Evans Restaurant. Dine-in only, beverage not included. Show proof of military service.

• The Mini Sampler
• The Classic Breakfast
• Country Biscuit Breakfast
• Banana Berry Oatmeal
• Brioche French Toast
• Mini Sampler
• Sunrise
• Buttermilk Hotcakes
• Sausage Gravy & Biscuits
• Down-Home Country-Fried Steak
• Bowl of Rolled-Oat Oatmeal

Guests wishing to enjoy a free Veterans Day meal must provide proof of service. Accepted identification includes: US Uniformed Services ID Card, US Uniformed Services Retired Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), veterans organization card (i.e. American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214, and citation or commendation.

More info on Bob Evans Veterans Day deal.

Bone Fish Grill

In honor of  Veterans Day on Nov. 11, 2022, Bonefish Grill is offering a free order of the restaurant’s Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage to service members, veterans and first responders with show of 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

No update for 2022

Bruegger's Bagels

Nov. 11, 2022. Free medium fresh-brewed hot or iced coffee with your breakfast today. More info.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Nov. 11, 2022. Wings for Heroes – Free order of 10 boneless wings and a side of fries to veterans and current active-duty military members. Dine-in only or take out if you are at a BWW Go location. Bring proof of military service. More info.

Buffalo Wings & Rings

No update for 2022

Nov. 11, 2021. 3 Free Tenders with choice of sauce and a N/A Beverage (milkshakes & specialty drinks not included). Dine-in only. Locations.

Burger King Veteran's Day

Nothing official yet for 2022.

California Pizza Kitchen

Join CPK in support of DAV (Disabled American Veterans) November 7th – 9th, 2022 for a Fundraiser. Visit California Pizza Kitchen* and we will donate 20% of ALL Food and Beverage Sales* to DAV when a guest indicates they are here to support the DAV.

Nov. 11, 2022. On Friday, November 11th, all Veterans and Active Military are invited to dine with us and receive a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage + choice of one entrée from our prix fixed menu.* Upsells and additions may not be included in the promo.. More info.

Chick-Fil-A Veterans Day

Chick-fil-A restaurants are independently owned and operated, so check the the social media page of your local Chick-Fil-A to see if they are offering a Veterans Day free meal.

A Chick-Fil-A restaurant in Atlanta offered free meals to active duty, veterans, and family members in years past so it can happen.

Chili's Veterans Day

Nov. 11, 2022. Join us on Veterans Day, Friday, November 11 to enjoy a meal on us. Available for in-restaurant only.

Free meal from a select menu. Dine-in only and participating locations only. Proof of military service required. More info.

All veterans & active military members can get a free meal on Veterans Day November 11, 2022 at all participating Chili's Grill & Bar restaurants. Available for in-restaurant only. Please call ahead to your local Chili's restaurant if you have any questions about your Veterans Day meals. 

Choose a free meal from the following list.

• Chicken Crispers®
• Margarita Grilled Chicken
• Bowl of Chili or Soup & Salad
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas
• Just Bacon Burger
• Oldtimer with Cheese
• Cajun Chicken Pasta

Chipotle

No update for 2022

Cici's PIzza

Nov. 11, 2022. Free adult pizza buffet with Military ID. Dine-in only. More info.

Cracker Barrel

Nov. 11, 2022. Complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake when dining at any Cracker Barrel location nationwide. To redeem the offer online, guests must add a slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake to their online order cart and enter code “VETSDAY22” at time of checkout.

25% OFF military apparel and drinkware, in-stores and online, to help honor U.S. Veterans and active-duty military on Veterans Day.

There is also a month-long promotion to support military families across the country in partnership with Operation Homefront. Locations.

Denny's

Nov. 11, 2022. Free Build Your Own Grand Slam® from 5 a.m. to noon for all active, inactive, and retired military personnel. Participating locations only. Please call ahead. Locations.

One of Denny's signature breakfast entrees, the Build Your Own Grand Slam includes a choice of four delicious items for a fully customizable breakfast. 

And with more than 10 choices — such as fluffy buttermilk pancakes, eggs cooked to order, bacon strips, buttermilk biscuits and hash browns– there is something for everyone. The offer is valid for dine-in only at participating locations from 5 a.m. to noon* with a valid military ID or DD 214.

*Denny's Veterans Day offer is valid for dine-in only and will not be available for online ordering through ‘Denny's on Demand.' Some locations may open after 5 a.m.; check your local restaurant for its hours of operation.

Dickey's BBQ Pit

On November 11, 2022 active duty and veterans can stop in-store at their local participating Dickey's for a free Pulled Pork Classic Sandwich. To redeem, a guest must present a military ID, DD-214, or Veterans Card or valid proof of service.

To give our thanks to those who served, we’re feeding offering a Free Pulled Pork Sandwich for every active duty or retired military on November 11th​.

Valid In-store, and Online/ App for Carryout, with Code VETFREE​.

More details on the offer.

Dunkin'

No update for 2022 yet.

Nov. 11, 2021. Free donut to Veterans and active duty military at participating restaurants nationwide. Locations.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

No update for 2022 yet.

Nov. 11, 2021. Free medium hot or iced coffee for veterans. More info.

Famous Dave's

No update for 2022 yet.

Nov. 11, 2021. Free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich + Side – for veterans and current military members. Bring proof of service. Participating locations only. Valid for Dine-In, To Go, and Online Ordering. More info.

Fogo de Chao

No update for 2022 yet.

2021: 50% all Veterans Day for veterans and active military. Plus an additional 10% off for up to three guests. *Restrictions apply. More info.

Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

VETERANS DAY 2022: As a small token of our appreciation for their service to our country, all Veterans and active military personnel who visit Freddy’s on Veterans Day will receive a FREE Freddy’s Original Double with Cheese combo meal card.

No purchase is necessary to receive this special offer. Cards may be redeemed through November 30, 2022.

Freedbirds World Burrito

No 2022 update.

Friendly's

No update for 2022 yet.

2021: Free All American Burger (fries and a beverage) during lunch or dinner. Valid military ID or honorable discharge card required. Dine-in only. Participating locations only. Find a location near you.

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.

Military Appreciation Night will be held on Monday, November 14, 2022 from 5pm – close.

Military Appreciation Dinner– free meal for anyone who served in the US Military (retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard or Reserves). More info

Hooters

Hooters, the original American wing joint, announced today its restaurants will continue the annual tradition of treating members of the nation’s armed forces – past and present – to a free meal Friday, November 11.

Veterans or active-duty military who present proof of service or a military ID, with purchase of a beverage at any Hooters location across the country, may order a free dinner entree from the Hooters Veterans Day Menu (dine-in only). 

That Menu includes five of Hooters’ select entrees:

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

Diners can choose from a wide variety of hot, spicy or sweet wings from Hooters famous offering of six dry rubs and 14 sauces such as Daytona, Chipotle Honey or Samurai Teriyaki among other mouthwatering favorites.

More info

Houlihan’s

No update for 2022 yet.

Houlihan's will honor America’s veterans, active-duty military, and our military families on Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11, 2021 with $10 off a $30 food purchase.

IHOP

Red, White and Blue pancakes are on the house for veterans and active duty military Friday November 11, 2022 from 7 am – 7 pm.

Dine-in only, 1 per guest, military ID or proof of service required. Some IHOP locations will offer free breakfast combos as part of the Veterans Day promotion. Please call ahead to verify participation. More info.

Joe’s Crab Shack

No update in 2022 yet.

20% Off on Veterans Day, applies to parties up to 4 or less with valid ID. More info.

Kirspy Kreme

No update in 2022 yet.

2021: Free donut of choice and small brewed coffee for current and former military members.

Krystal

No update for 2022

LongHorn Steakhouse

No update for 2022

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13th, 2022 -HALF PRICED ENTRÉE-

Veterans Day is an opportunity for M&S to honor those who have served our country. It is our sincere honor to invite Veterans of the U.S. Military, National Guard, Gold Star Parents, and Gold Star Spouses to enjoy a select half-priced entrée on Sunday, November 13th, 2022.

*Valid on purchase of select entrées for dine-in only. Not valid on alcoholic beverages or retail purchases. Not valid with any other discount. Tax and gratuity not included. Valid only on Sunday, November 13, 2022. Must show valid ID.

More info here.

McDonald's Veterans Day Discount

No update for 2022.

McGrath Fish House

Veterans & Active Duty enjoy a FREE MEAL on Veterans Day – Friday, November 11th.

Choose from Fish & Chips, Bay Shrimp or Chicken Alfredo Pasta, Sesame Chicken Tenders, All American Bacon Cheeseburger, Parmesan White Fish Medallions, or Shrimp Louie & Chowder.

Valid 11/11/22 only. Must show military ID or other proof of service.

MOD Pizza

Buy one MOD-size pizza or salad, get one MOD-size pizza or salad free on 11/11/2022 with proof of military service. Valid in-store only.

Additional charge for alternative crust options. Excludes Pizza Salads. Limit 1 per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers or promotions. More info.

Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub

Veterans Day, Friday, November 11 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., to receive a free entrée from the Veterans Day menu (with the purchase of another entrée). Available for dine-in only.

When presenting proof of service or a valid military ID, veterans and active duty military can choose a free entrée from the Veterans Day menu with the purchase of another entrée, the selection includes:

• Baked Schrod 
• Country Fried Chicken
• Crispy Fish Sandwich
• All American Burger
• Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad
• Pork Carnitas Southwest Fajita Bowl

More info. Veterans and active duty military receive a 10% food discount by presenting proof of service or a military ID (offered daily).

Olive Garden

With a military ID, veterans can receive a free meal from a predetermined menu at the Olive Garden. Veterans can pick from five popular options: Never-Ending Soup, Salad and Breadsticks, Cheese Ravioli, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Fettuccini Alfredo, and Chicken Parmigiana. The deal is good for dine-in only. 

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. More info.

Outback Steakhouse

Free Bloomin’ Onion and your choice of any Coca-Cola® product. Offer available for dine-in or to-go (call-in orders only, not available online).

Also available: 10% OFF Heroes Discount is open to servicemen and women, police officers, firefighters, and first responders, with corresponding state or federal service ID. More info.

Pilot Flying J

In celebration of Veterans Day, Pilot Company is inviting all active duty and retired military members to enjoy a free meal* at any of its more than 750 participating U.S. travel centers.

On Nov. 11, Veterans authenticated with ID.me in the myRewards Plus^TM app can save their exclusive offer* for a $10 free meal credit. Veterans can choose from a variety of food and beverages, including Pilot coffee, fountain drinks, non-alcoholic cooler beverages, hot and cold food items, name-brand snacks and purchases at over 680 participating QSR restaurants.

The discount is available to be redeemed at any of the company’s owned and operated U.S. locations, including over 750 participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 Fuel Network travel centers. To easily find nearby locations and for more great deals, download the myRewards Plus^TM app.

More info

Qdoba Mexican Grill

No update for 2022.

2020 offer was: Active military and veterans get 50 percent off any entree on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2020.

Red Lobster

In honor of Veterans Day, and to thank veterans, active-duty military and reservists for their service, Red Lobster is offering guests a free Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, Fries, and Coleslaw, featuring six hand-breaded, butterflied and lightly fried shrimp, served with cocktail sauce, as well as crispy French Fries and Coleslaw.

The offer is available for dine-in and To Go orders placed in-restaurant between 11:00am and 4:00pm local time on Friday, November 11, 2022. Guests only need to show a valid military ID or proof of service to redeem this offer.

More info.

Red Robin

On Friday, November 11^th, 2022 Red Robin is inviting all veterans and active-duty military to enjoy a FREE Red's Tavern Double® burger served with Bottomless Steak Fries® at participating restaurants nationwide.

The free Red's Tavern Double® burger is redeemable on Veterans Day for dine-in only. Red Robin's commitment to supporting its military guests extends beyond Veterans Day.

Veterans and active-duty military members, along with their parents and spouses, can sign up for Red Robin's Royalty® program to receive exclusive military offers, perks, and deals all year long. To sign up for Red Robin Royalty®, visit www.redrobin.com/rewards or download the Red Robin mobile app.

More info.

Romano's Macaroni Grill

No update for 2022.

2021 offer: Free Mom's Ricotta Meatballs and spaghetti for current and former soliders, sailors, airmen, and marines. Show proof of service. Not available international locations or airports.

Ruby Tuesday’s

Free sandwich with fries or tots at participating locations, proof of service required. More info.

Shoney's

No update for 2022

Smashburger

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

*Offer valid 11/11/2022 in-store only. Must show valid proof of military ID. Valid only at participating restaurants. Not available through third-party delivery. Not valid with other offers or discounts. While supplies last. Excludes Brisket Burger. Add ons and substitutions are available for additional cost. No cash value. Taxes not included. Online Ordering is not available in Canada.

Sonny's BBQ

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. But that’s not all. You also get your choice of sidekick and drink.

*Restrictions apply. One Free Pork Big Deal per veteran with valid coupon on 11/11/22. For dine-in and takeout only. Not available for online orders. See terms and answers to frequently asked questions in the registration link above.

More info.

Starbucks Veterans Day

Starbucks is treating veterans, active duty service members, and military spouses to a free tall (12oz) hot or iced brewed coffee. Starbucks is also donating 25 cents for every cup of hot brewed coffee sold nationwide on Nov. 11 to be divided evenly between Team Red, White & Blue and Headstrong to support the mental health and the wellbeing of military communities. More info.

Tap House Grill

No update for 2022.

2021 offer: Complimentary meal on Veterans Day, November 11th. For servicemembers and veterans with proof of service. Dine-in only. More info.

Texas de Brazil

No update for 2022.

Nov 9-12, 2021. 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. More info.

Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse’s “Texas-size Thank You for Serving Our Country” event this year, military members and veterans can pick up meal vouchers to redeem for one of 10 entrees, two sides and a non-alcoholic beverage of their choice (soda, iced tea or coffee).

Restaurant staff will hand out the vouchers on Friday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

TGI Friday's

Free menu item from Veterans Day menu.

On Veterans Day, 11/11, from 11AM until 2PM local time, veterans and active duty military personnel who dine-in at participating TGI Fridays can receive a free meal from the below selections:

• Cheeseburger with Seasoned Fries
• Crispy Chicken Fingers with Seasoned Fries and Coleslaw
• Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
• 6 oz. Center-Cut Sirloin with Mashed Potatoes and Garlic-Butter Broccoli

To redeem the deal, veterans and active duty military personnel should present a valid military ID.

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. More info.

Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill

Everyday American Soldier special – active duty military can get a free cheeseburger, fries, and drink.

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. More info.

Village Inn

No 2022 offer.

Wendy's

In honor of Veterans Day, Wendy's^® is thanking those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military with a FREE breakfast combo offer* with valid military ID or a Veterans Advantage card.

Veterans Day, Friday, November 11 from 6:30 – 10:30 a.m. 

Yard House

To honor and celebrate those who have served our country, we invite veterans and active duty military to join us for a complimentary appetizer on Veteran's Day.

More info on Yard House 2021 Veterans Day deal.

7-Eleven Convenience Store

Get a free coffee or Big Gulp® on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day.

Get a free Quarter-Pound Big Bite 100% all-beef hot dog on Veterans Day. Available in-store and via delivery through the 7NOW app. Download the app and sign in or register. Learn more.

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 2022 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