Veterans Day Free Meals and Discounts for 2025

As Veterans Day approaches, it’s a time to honor the incredible service and sacrifice of our military members. Across the nation, businesses express their gratitude for this dedication. One of the most popular ways they show this military appreciation is by offering Veterans Day free meals.

Each year, countless restaurants participate in this tradition, opening their doors to serve those who have served. We have compiled an extensive list of these fantastic military deals for you. Consider this your guide to finding the recognition you have rightfully earned through these generous Veterans Day free meals.

What to Know Before You Go

Before heading out to claim a well-deserved meal, there are a few important details to consider. We have worked to verify every day deal on this list. However, restaurant promotions can sometimes change unexpectedly.

A quick phone call to your local restaurant is always a good practice before you leave home. Since many restaurants are franchises, individual owners may occasionally opt out of national promotions. Calling ahead confirms their participation and can save you a trip.

You will also need to bring proof of your military service to redeem offer promotions. This can be a Military ID card, VA health card, DD 214 form, or a state-issued ID with a veteran designation. Showing valid proof of service makes the process smooth for everyone.

Popular Veterans Day Deals at a Glance

With so many options, it can be helpful to see some of the most popular deals in one place. This table highlights some well-known restaurants offering veterans a special thank you. These are often some of the most sought-after Veterans Day deals available.

Restaurant	The Veterans Day Deal	Service Type
Applebee’s	Free entrée from a special day menu.	Dine-in
Chili’s Grill & Bar	Complimentary meal from a select menu for veterans and active military.	Dine-in
Golden Corral	Free “thank you” dinner during their Military Appreciation Night.	Dine-in
Starbucks	Free tall hot or iced brewed coffee for veterans and military spouses.	In-store
Buffalo Wild Wings	10 free boneless wings and a side of fries.	Dine-in & Takeout
Red Lobster	Free Shrimp & Chips voucher available during a specific time window.	Dine-in (to get voucher)

Beyond the Meal: Other Veterans Day Discounts

While a free meal is a wonderful gesture, many other businesses extend their thanks to active-duty service members and veterans. Look for offers of free admission to national parks, museums, and local attractions. These opportunities provide a great way for families to spend time together.

Many retail stores also provide a Veterans Day discount on merchandise, from clothing to electronics. It’s a great time to do some early holiday shopping or purchase something you’ve been needing. Some establishments even offer year long military discounts, so it’s always worth asking.

Don’t forget to check with local service-based businesses, such as car washes or mechanics. They often have special military deals as their way of saying thank you. These community-based offers reflect the widespread respect for your duty service.

A Huge List of Veterans Day Free Meals

Here is our comprehensive list of restaurants offering deals for veterans and active-duty military personnel. We’ve gathered the details to help you plan your day. Please remember that most of these offers are for dine-in service only.

110 Grill: Veterans and active duty military get a free lunch entrée from a select menu between 11:30 am and 4:00 pm.
151 Coffee: On Veterans Day, you and your family can get free drinks by showing valid military ID.
54th Street Grill & Bar: This restaurant offers veterans and active-duty service $10 off any entrée in a dine-in only day deal.
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant: The restaurant donates to Honor Flight for every Chile con Queso sold from Nov 6-11, allowing you to give back.
AhiPoki: You can receive 50% off any poke bowl when you present your military ID.
Another Broken Egg Cafe: Get a free Patriot French Toast and coffee. This deal is for dine-in service only.
Applebee’s: Stop by on November 11th for a complimentary entrée chosen from a special day menu created for our nation’s heroes.
Aroma Joe’s Coffee: Aroma Joe’s is offering veterans a free 24oz drink, either hot or iced, with a military ID.
Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar: Veterans and active-duty military get a 10% day discount on their meal for dine-in only.
Aspen Creek Grill: On Nov. 11, get a voucher for a free meal valued at $15, which can be used through late December.
Au Bon Pain: On November 10, they provide a free breakfast sandwich and a small drip coffee with a military ID.
Bagger Dave’s: This burger spot offers a free Great American Cheeseburger with fries to all military personnel with an ID for dine-in service.
Bar Louie: On Nov. 10 and 11, active and retired military members get a free burger with a valid ID.
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s: Get a free meal with a value up to $12 with the purchase of another entree.
BIBIBOP Asian Grill: All veterans and active duty service members can get a free bowl. Bring your military ID to get this tasty deal.
Billy Sims BBQ: On Nov 11, they offer a free pulled pork sandwich, one side, and a drink. It’s for dine-in only when you mention the offer.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Enjoy a complimentary dessert here. They offer their famous Chocolate Chunk Pizookie to veterans with proof of service.
Black Angus Steakhouse: On Nov 10th from 11 am to 3 pm, get a free 6oz Top Sirloin steak with sides for dine-in and takeout.
Bob Evans: Bob Evans invites veterans and active duty military to have a free meal on the house from a special menu.
Bombshells Restaurant and Bar: Veterans get a free meal at this Texas and Colorado restaurant. Active service members get a 20% discount.
Bonefish Grill: They give a complimentary order of their famous Bang Bang Shrimp and a non-alcoholic drink with a current military ID.
Brickhouse Tavern & Tap: This restaurant gives a 20% discount on meals for parties up to four for dine-in customers.
Bruegger’s Bagels: Grab a free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase by showing proof of your service.
Bubba Gump Shrimp: A great spot for seafood lovers. Veterans and active military can get 20% off their meal.
Buffalo’s Cafe: Get a free meal up to $17.99 in value. You must show a valid military ID to receive this offer.
Buffalo Wild Wings: You can get an order of 10 free boneless wings and fries, available for dine-in or walk-in orders.
California Pizza Kitchen: On Nov 11, veterans can get a free entrée and drink. You’ll choose from a special Veterans Day menu at CPK.
Casey’s General Store: Stop by Casey’s for a free coffee or fountain drink as their way of saying thanks.
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse: You can get a complimentary sirloin steak dinner by signing up online to get a certificate for the meal.
CentraArchy Restaurants: Enjoy a half-price meal at any of their restaurant locations. Show your military ID to get the deal.
Chicken Salad Chick: They’re giving veterans and active military a free Chick Meal, which includes a scoop or sandwich, one side, and a drink.
Chick-fil-A: Offers vary by location. It’s a good idea to call your local restaurant to see what they have planned for veterans.
Chili’s Grill & Bar: Chili’s will serve a free meal from a special menu for all veterans and active military at participating locations.
Cicis Pizza: Veterans can enjoy a free buffet meal on November 11th, so you can enjoy pizza on them.
Circle K: Get a free medium coffee, hot or iced, at participating US stores by showing a military ID.
City Barbeque: Veterans and National Guard members get a free sandwich, one side, and a drink for dine-in or carryout.
Claim Jumper: Enjoy a complimentary meal from a select menu for dine-in guests only.
Coco’s Bakery & Restaurant: You can get a free Homestyle Breakfast when you dine in and show a valid ID.
Cracker Barrel: They offer a free slice of their Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake. The sweet treat from Cracker Barrel is a thank you for your service.
Craft Republic: They are offering veterans a free meal. Plus, they are starting a new 10% military discount for future visits.
Culver’s: Enjoy a free one-scoop sundae by showing some form of military ID.
Denny’s: Start your day with a free Original Grand Slam. This offer is valid from 5 am to noon with a valid military ID.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: You can get a free pulled pork classic sandwich. Be sure to present your military ID or proof of service.
Duffy’s Sports Grill: Veterans get a free meal on Veterans Day. You need a valid military ID for this generous offer.
Dunkin’: All active and retired duty service members can get a free donut to start the day.
East Coast Wings + Grill: Veterans can get a free meal here. Just make sure your local spot is participating in this day deal.
Einstein Bros. Bagels: With a purchase, you can get a free hot or iced coffee of any size by showing your ID.
Emmet’s Social Table: At this spot, military members can get a free meal valued at $15 on November 10th.
Famous Dave’s: Get a free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich and a side for dine-in, to-go, and online orders.
Farmer Boys: This restaurant is giving a free Big Cheese burger. Proof of service is needed, and the deal is for dine-in customers.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill: Veterans can get a free meal when they dine in. This offer is good with a valid military ID.
Firehouse Subs: Get a free combo meal on Veterans Day, which comes with a medium sub, chips or a cookie, and a drink.
Fogo de Chão: From Nov 7-11, veterans get 50% off their meal, and up to three of their guests get 10% off.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: Visit any location to get a card for a free combo meal that can be used until the end of the year.
Frisch’s Big Boy: You can get a free meal valued up to $10 for dine-in, drive-thru, or carryout.
Gold Star Chili: Gold Star offers a free meal worth up to $12. Just show proof of your active-duty service to get it.
Golden Corral: From 4 pm to closing, Golden Corral hosts its Military Appreciation Night where members free of charge can enjoy a thank-you dinner.
Green Mill Restaurant and Bar: Veterans can choose from four different meal options for free. It is for dine-in only.
The Greene Turtle: Enjoy a free meal up to $15 in value at participating locations for dine-in customers with a valid ID.
Grillsmith: Veterans can get a free entrée on Veterans Day with a GovX ID. It’s for dine-in only.
Hard Rock Cafe: This iconic spot offers a free Classic Smash Burger. Your military ID also gets you 15% off other items.
Hawaiian Bros: Get a free classic plate lunch at this island grill by showing proof of service.
Hof’s Hut Restaurant & Bakery: Veterans get a free Hofburger or a Buttermilk Pancakes Combo with ID for this dine-in deal.
Hooters: Get a free dinner entrée from a special menu with the purchase of a beverage and proof of service.
Hoss’s Family Steak & Sea House: This restaurant gives a 20% discount on your meal and a $10 voucher for a future visit.
Huddle House: Stop in for a free breakfast platter. The offer is for dine-in only with valid proof of service.
HyVee: HyVee serves a free breakfast for veterans from 6 am to 10 am.
IHOP: Get a free stack of Red, White & Blueberry pancakes. It is a great pancake special for dine-in guests at participating locations.
In-N-Out Burger: While In-N-Out Burger doesn’t have a formal national promotion, some local franchises may offer a discount. It is always best to call your local spot and ask.
Iron Skillet: You can receive a free meal at participating locations with proof of service.
J Christopher’s: At J. Christopher’s, veterans eat for free. Just show your valid ID when you order.
Keel Farms: They are offering a free lunch and a drink from 11 am to 3 pm.
Kings Family Restaurant: Get a complimentary meal from the Veterans Day menu for dine-in guests.
Kolache Factory: Veterans can enjoy a free kolache and a cup of coffee from 6 am to 2 pm.
Krispy Kreme: Get a free doughnut and a small coffee with no purchase necessary.
LaMar’s Donuts: This spot is giving a free donut and 12-ounce coffee at all 25 of their locations.
Legal Sea Foods: They give a free bowl of their classic chowder in this dine-in only offer.
Little Caesars Pizza: Get a free lunch combo from 11 am to 2 pm, which includes four slices of pizza and a drink.
Logan’s Roadhouse: From 11 am to 3 pm, get a free meal from a special menu available for veterans and military.
LongHorn Steakhouse: Get 10% off your meal and a free appetizer or dessert on Nov 10 and 11.
Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: They give a free personal-size meal and a $10 bonus card for a later visit.
Macaroni Grill: Enjoy a buy-one-get-one-free offer on their penne rustic entrées for dine-in or pickup.
Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant: Veterans can get 50% off their entrées for dine-in with a valid ID.
McCormick and Schmick’s: On November 9th, veterans, Gold Star parents, and spouses can get a select entrée for half price.
Melting Pot: Enjoy a free 4-course meal with the purchase of another one, a great option for a date night.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt: Get your first 6 ounces of frozen yogurt for free by showing your military ID or wearing your uniform.
Mimi’s Cafe: Mimi’s is offering veterans and their families a free meal.
Mission BBQ: Stop by for a free sandwich and a live performance of the National Anthem at noon.
MOD Pizza: They are giving away a free Mega Cookie with any purchase for veterans, service members, and spouses.
Morton’s The Steakhouse: You can get a 20% discount on Veterans Day for groups of up to four people.
Mountain Mike’s: Get a 15% discount on any large pizza, a great deal for carryout or delivery.
Nekter Juice Bar: Grab a free 16 oz juice or smoothie with a valid military ID.
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub: You can get a free entrée from a special menu until 5 pm for dine-in guests only.
Oak and Stone: They give a free cheese or pepperoni pizza to military members for dine-in only.
Olive Garden: Enjoy a free entree from a special menu, which includes their famous breadsticks and a choice of soup or salad.
On The Border: They’re giving a free Pick-2 Combo meal for dine-in only at participating locations.
Outback Steakhouse: Get a free Bloomin’ Onion and a Coca-Cola drink. They also have a year-round 10% discount for military and first responders.
Panera Bread: Some Panera locations give free breakfast items and coffee. Be sure to check with your local store first.
Parry’s Pizza: Enjoy free dining all day from a select menu. Call ahead to confirm your location is participating.
Peet’s Coffee: Eligible veterans can get one free drip coffee or tea with a military ID.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery: Many locations offer a free Magnificent Seven breakfast. Call ahead to find your own free sunrise pancake special.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille: They have two great deals: a free pork chop with another meal purchase, or a 3-course dinner for $39.
Playa Bowls: Get a free bowl at select locations with a military ID.
Pluckers Wing Bar: They are offering a free meal valued up to $16, including an entrée, side, and non-alcoholic drink for dine-in.
Quaker Steak & Lube: Enjoy 50% off any meal at participating locations with proof of service.
Red Lobster: You can get a voucher for a free order of shrimp and chips by visiting between 11 am and 4 pm.
Red Robin: Get a free Red’s Tavern Double burger and bottomless steak fries.
Rock & Brews: They offer a free Pulled Pork Sandwich or Strawberry Fields Salad for dine-in guests with ID.
Rodizio Grill: Veterans can dine for free with the purchase of an adult meal on November 10th and 11th.
Rooster’s: Visit any location to get a $10 Roosters Buck when you present proof of your service.
Rosa Mexicano: This restaurant gives a free meal to military veterans on November 10th and 11th.
Roy Rogers Restaurants: Veterans can get a free Uncle Ralph’s brownie with a purchase.
Schlotzsky’s: This sandwich spot offers free chips and a small drink with any entree purchase by showing military ID.
Scooter’s Coffee: Scooter’s offers a free handcrafted beverage of any size.
Shane’s Rib Shack: Get a free BBQ pork or chicken plate from November 9th through the 11th.
Shari’s Cafe: All former and current military can get a free homestyle breakfast for dine-in at participating locations.
Sheetz: They give a free meal (half turkey sub and a fountain drink) and a free car wash.
Shoney’s: They honor heroes with a free breakfast until 11 am for veterans and active-duty military.
Sizzler Restaurants: Sizzler gives a free lunch until 4 pm, with a choice of three meal options from a special menu.
Smokey Bones: Get a free Create Your Own Combo meal. The deal is for dine-in guests and no other purchase is necessary.
Smokey Mo’s: From 7 to 10:30 am, get a free breakfast taco at all Central Texas locations.
Smoothie King: You can get a free 20 oz smoothie from the red, white, or blue selection by showing a valid ID.
Sonny’s BBQ: Grab a free Pork Big Deal meal. You can verify your service with a military ID or online with ID.me.
Starbucks: Veterans, military service members, and military spouses get a free tall coffee at participating stores.
Sugarfire Smokehouse: Enjoy a free cheeseburger or half-off a pork steak with a side at locations in MO, CO, and IA.
Taco John’s: You can get a free small beef #1 combo meal through their mobile app.
Tap House Grill: Veterans and active service members get a free meal for dine-in with proof of service.
TCBY: Get your first 6 oz of frozen yogurt for free. All locations are participating.
Texas de Brazil: Enjoy a 25% discount for up to four veterans at a table. Call to confirm your location is participating.
Texas Roadhouse: Get a free meal voucher from 11 am to 2 pm that can be used on a future visit.
T.G.I. Friday’s: They offer a free meal from a select menu from 11 am to 5 pm for dine-in only.
Tijuana Flats: You can get a free entrée with a beverage purchase, up to a maximum discount value.
Tim Hortons: US military members get a free classic donut when ordering in person at participating US locations.
TooJay’s: Get a free entrée from a special menu with a valid military ID at this diner.
Tucanos Brazilian Grill: Veterans get a free churrasco meal with the purchase of another. Solo diners get 50% off.
Tuscan Kitchen: They will serve a free meal on November 10th at their Massachusetts and New Hampshire locations.
Twin Peaks: Get a complimentary lunch at this restaurant. They also collect donations for the Tunnel to Towers foundation.
Wawa: Get a free coffee for you and your family members, a nice gesture from this popular convenience store.
Wendy’s: During breakfast hours (6:30 am to 10:30 am), you can get a free small breakfast combo.
White Castle: White Castle is giving away a free combo meal or a breakfast combo. Just show your military ID at participating locations.
World of Beer: Get a free order of two crispy chicken sliders from November 9th through November 12th.
Zaxby’s: Zaxby’s gives away free boneless wings to all current and former military at participating restaurants only.

Conclusion

We hope this extensive list helps you find a wonderful spot to enjoy a meal this Veterans Day. These restaurants are eager to show their appreciation for your unwavering dedication and service to our country. Their offers are a small token of gratitude for all that you have done.

Remember the two key steps for a successful outing: call your chosen location ahead of time and have your military ID ready. On behalf of everyone, thank you for your service. Enjoy the well-deserved recognition and all the Veterans Day free meals available to you.