60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023  (2024)

Updated: Mar. 14, 2024

Find out where our current and former service members can score Veterans Day free meals as a small thank-you for all they've done to fight for and protect our freedom

Each year, America celebrates Veterans Day on Nov. 11, honoring both veterans and those actively serving in the military. If you’re looking to show the soldier in your life appreciation for their courage and ongoing fight for freedom, consider taking them to one of the many restaurant chains that offer Veterans Day free meals and discounts.

Use this roundup of eateries to find out where you can order a free Veterans Day meal as a thank-you for your service. There are plenty of popular chains to choose from, including IHOP, Applebee’s, Chili’s and Olive Garden.

In most cases, all you need is some form of military ID. Plus, these freebies aren’t only for veterans. Some of the restaurants below offer discounts for families of active-duty service members and veterans too (how cool is that?).

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Where to get Veterans Day free meals

It’s impossible to adequately compensate our veterans and active military for everything they have done for us, but Veterans Day free meals are certainly a sweet and delicious nod to America’s troops. So prepare for the holiday by browsing our list of restaurants offering free meals on Veterans Day. And remember to bring proof of military service before you head out to grab some complimentary grub.

Applebee’s

Applebee’s has proudly served up 8.3 million Veterans Day free meals since 2008! The chain is continuing the tradition this year by offering different options that vary across the country (they must adhere to different local guidelines), so check with your local restaurant for details.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Veterans and active-duty military can head to Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar for an All-American Burger with a choice of cheese and a side—for free—on the holiday. Members will have to bring proof of service.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Bar Louie

Show a valid military ID to receive a free Bar Louie Craft Burger. This offer is only open to veterans and retired military when they dine in at participating locations.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Billy Sims BBQ

Take the time to enjoy your free pulled pork or chicken sandwich if you’re a veteran or active-duty military member. It comes with a regular side (green beans, chips and coleslaw, to name a few) and a drink.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Bob Evans

There’s plenty to look forward to if you’re near a Bob Evans location on Veterans Day, and that should come as no surprise. Bob Evans himself was a military vet! The chain is offering a special homestyle menu of items for Veterans Day free meals. It includes breakfast, lunch and dinner options available with proof of military service.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Bruegger’s Bagels

Take a trip to one of the 260 bakeries operated by Bruegger’s Bagels. Veterans and active-duty military can indulge in a free hot or iced coffee, of any size, once they purchase an order in-store.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Buffalo’s Cafe

Veterans and active-duty service members who dine in will get a free entree from the menu (worth up to $17.99). Delectable picks include wings, tacos, burgers, rice bowls and so much more! Plus, if you happen to forget your military ID, wearing your military uniform will suffice for the deal.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Buffalo Wild Wings

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (1)UCG/Getty Images

Buffalo Wild Wings is offering a free order of 10 boneless wings and fries for all America’s troops—both vets and current armed services members—this Veterans Day. The offer is available for dine-in or takeout (but excludes online orders). You’ll need to show proof of service in order to redeem the freebie.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

California Fish Grill

Delight in a complimentary taco and soft drink. California Fish Grill has a range of tacos to choose from, including cajun shrimp tacos, mahi-mahi tacos and grilled chicken tacos.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

California Pizza Kitchen

Veterans, active military (with a valid ID) and those brought to dine in will receive a buy-one-get-one-free pizza, pasta or salad, along with a special offer to come back from Nov. 12 to Nov. 21. Past options have included the infamous Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad and Kung Pao Spaghetti with Chicken, among other delectable offerings.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Caribou Coffee

Show your military ID and dine in to get the Small Hot Brewed Coffee of the Day or Cold Press (this excludes the nitro). What’s more, this offer extends to veterans, active-duty military and their spouses too!

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Carolina Ale House

A free half-rack rib platter? Yes, please! Veterans and military members can enjoy this complimentary meal that comes with coleslaw and fries. Check the locations local to you to see if they’re participating.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Cattlemens Steakhouse

If you’re a current or former service member, you can get a free sirloin steak dinner at Cattlemens Steakhouse. Yes, you read that right: You’ll get an 8-ounce steak, with sides, for no cost! Just check to be sure your local Cattlemens is participating, and make sure you’ve got your military ID on hand.

When to go for a free meal: Sunday, Nov. 12, to Wednesday, Nov. 22

Chevy’s

Chevy’s locations owned by Doherty Enterprises across Florida, Georgia, New Jersey and New York are offering a free entree to military veterans. The restaurant serves up delicious Mexican fare, including enchiladas and burritos.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, at participating locations

Chicken Salad Chick

Is there anything more comforting than the taste of homemade chicken salad? Chicken Salad Chick is offering a freebie, also known as their Chick Special (along with its drink), at locations across 17 states for active military.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Having trouble locating a spot to chow down? Put “free Veterans Day meals near me” into your search engine for help.

Chili’s

Head on over to Chili’s, which is saluting veterans and active military members with a choice of meals from the special Veterans Day menu (dine-in only). Options include the Just Bacon Burger, Margarita Grilled Chicken and Cajun Chicken Pasta.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Every year Chipotle offers veterans and military service members (with a valid ID) their Military Appreciation BOGO deal, and luckily, this year is no different! You can use the deal on burritos, salads, bowls and tacos, but you must purchase an entree item of equal or greater value to the freebie to redeem.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Cotton Patch Cafe

Cotton Patch Cafe, the Texas-inspired, scratch-made restaurant, pays it forward annually by offering service members a free chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken when they visit any location on the holiday. These delicious meals will be available to any veteran or active member of the military with a military ID.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Dave and Buster’s

Take your veteran to Dave and Buster’s for a free entree (up to $20). Then play a few games with an extra freebie: a $10 Power Card, given to those with a veterans ID card.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Denny’s

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (2)John Greim/Getty Images

You could stay home for a Veterans Day movie double feature, but here’s a better idea: Head to Denny’s on Veterans Day. Active and inactive military personnel are invited nationwide to participate in Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast, a Denny’s Veterans Day tradition. Pick your four favorite foods from more than 10 menu options, such as buttermilk pancakes and eggs cooked to order. It brings new meaning to hitting it out of the ballpark!

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Dunkin’ Donuts

Veterans and active-duty military will have to visit their local Dunkin’ in person to receive a free donut of choice. Check to see if the Dunkin’ location near you is participating in this freebie.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

The restaurant honored veterans last year, and it’s at it again! Head to Freddy’s this Veterans Day and get a meal card good for a free Freddy’s Original Double with Cheese combo meal. Both former and current military members can redeem the card through Nov. 30. There are more than 300 Freddy’s locations across the country, so find one near you.

When to go for a free meal: Freddy’s will distribute meal cards on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Golden Corral

Golden Corral will be hosting its annual Military Appreciation Night—the 21st year in a row. As of 2020, the restaurant had served almost 6 million Veterans Day free meals to active-duty and retired military heroes. This year they’ll still be serving up complimentary dinners for both current and former service members.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Hamburger Stand

If burgers are on your to-eat list for the weekend, visit Hamburger Stand for a free burger, regular fries and a small soda. The offer is for veterans and active-duty service members at participating locations.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Hard Rock Cafe

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (3)Robert Alexander/Getty Images

Grab a meal with a side of rock ‘n’ roll history. Like last year, both active and retired military members can receive a free Legendary Steak Burger for Veterans Day. They can also take advantage of the Hard Rock Cafe’s year-round military discount of 15% off food and nonalcoholic drinks.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Hickory Tavern

Veterans and those on active-duty can enjoy a free Veterans Day meal of equal or lesser value than a meal they purchase on Nov. 10. This offer is valid for dine-in only, with a limit of one free meal per military service member. Of course, don’t forget your proof of military service.

When to go for a free meal: Friday, Nov. 10

Hof’s Hut

This Southern California homestyle restaurant and coffee shop chain offers veterans and active-duty military a free Hofburger or Buttermilk Pancakes Combo with a military ID card or proof of service. They’ll also get a Thank You card (worth $10) to use from Nov. 24 to Dec. 3.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Take your veteran to Hopdoddy Burger Bar for a free classic burger (dine-in only). There are more than 30 locations nationwide, so check their website to see which one is local to you.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Hurricane Grill and Wings

Dine in to get a free entree from their special menu. Veterans and active-duty service members can wear their military uniform or show their military ID to snag this complimentary meal.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee is offering freebies, not only to veterans and military members, but their families too! Shop in-store or at Hy-Vee Aisles Online (use the code HOMEFRONT15 at checkout) to get a free breakfast! Even better, veterans and military members will receive 15% off grocery purchases on Nov. 10.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 6 to 10 a.m.

IHOP

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (4)UCG/Getty Images

Serving up free Veterans Day meals is a time-honored tradition at IHOP. As a yearly initiative, the restaurant chain offers members of the military free Red, White & Blue Pancakes or a Pancake Combo for dine-in service. Make sure you have your military ID or proof of service to score the deal, then bring the whole military family for a breakfast feast at any time of day.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Kolache Factory

Start your day off right! Kolache Factory offers a free kolache (a Czech pastry with savory fillings), excluding Polish and croissant varieties and espresso types of any kind. Veterans and active military will also get one cup of freshly brewed Katz coffee of any size.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Little Caesars

As in past years, this Veterans Day, retired and active military can get a free Lunch Combo from this pizza chain. Only select Little Caesars are participating, so make sure you call your local restaurant before you head over.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ

On Veterans day, military service members and veterans will receive a complimentary pulled pork sandwich with a side at Lucille’s. Military ID is requested, however. In addition, any veteran who takes advantage of the offer will receive a $10 Thank You for Your Service card, which they can use between Nov. 25 and Dec. 4. While supplies last, veterans and active-duty military will also receive a Thank You card (worth $10) redeemable from Nov. 24 to Dec. 3.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Menchie’s

Bring a valid military ID to get your first 6 ounces of froyo free. Flavors range from Dutch Apple Pie and Creamy Peanut Butter to Creamy Country Vanilla and Harvest Pumpkin.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Mission BBQ

This BBQ eatery is giving veterans a free sandwich from any of their locations. They even offer a freebie on Armed Forces Day.

When to go for a free meal:Saturday, Nov. 11

Next Level Burger

This 100% plant-based “burger” chain is offering veterans, active-duty military and their families 50% off their meals. Redeem the offer in person and mention your military status for the discount.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub

Despite not happening on Veterans Day itself, this pub is giving those in the military free lunch from a special menu. They’ll have to purchase another entree to redeem the complimentary offer while dining in.

When to go for a free meal: Friday, Nov. 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

O’Charley’s

Whether you’re a current member of the U.S. Army, a retired airman or any other type of active or inactive service member, you can get a free meal (a $10 value) at participating O’Charley’s locations if you visit on Veterans Day and show your military ID. The restaurant offers a special Veterans Thank-You Menu for vets to order from. Just check beforehand to see if your local O’Charley’s is participating.

When to go for a free meal: Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11

Olive Garden

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (5)UCG/Getty Images

In the mood for Italian? You’re in luck. Olive Garden offers a Veterans Day free meal from a predetermined menu. You’ll have to dine in, but that just gives you more time to enjoy those famous breadsticks. Proof of military service is required.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Parry’s Pizza

Present your military ID to get a full-size entree and fountain drink from Parry’s Pizza’s special menu. You’ll have to dine in to redeem the freebie.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Perkins

Veterans are eligible for a free Magnificent Seven breakfast at Perkins, which includes two strips of bacon and three pancakes. Check with your local restaurant before making the trip—not all are participating in the promotion.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille

This fine-dining restaurant is giving active-duty military and veterans a free pork chop the day before Veterans Day when dining in person. They must have a guest with them who purchases one lunch or dinner entree to redeem the offer. Then, on Nov. 11, they can enjoy a three-course menu for $39 from 4 to 6 p.m. You’ll need a reservation before you go.

When to go for a free meal: Friday, Nov. 10, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Red Lobster

Start or end your meal with a little something extra, courtesy of the folks over at Red Lobster. They’re offering free printed meal vouchers for Veterans Shrimp and Chips. You’ll need valid military ID or proof of service to redeem and use the offer starting Monday, Nov. 13, through Sunday, Dec. 10 (dine-in only).

When to go for a free meal: Redeem and use the offer starting Monday, Nov. 13, to Sunday, Dec. 10, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Red Robin

Relish the taste of Red Robin’s Big Tavern Burger, available to veterans and active-duty members for free when they show military ID while dining in. The burger even comes with an endless side of steak fries (yum!).

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Rock and Brews

Rock and Brews is honoring veterans and active-duty military members with their free “We Salute You” Pulled Pork Sandwich or their Strawberry Fields Salad.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (6)Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

This is a deal for spaghetti and pasta lovers! On Veterans Day, Romano’s Macaroni Grill is offering veterans and military members one free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs and Spaghetti once they show proof of service.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Schlotzsky

This restaurant chain is offering free chips and a small drink to veterans and active-duty service members. Take note: You must purchase an entree and have a valid military ID to redeem the freebie.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Shane’s Rib Shack

This rib shack is offering their deal for more than just one day! Veterans and military members, both active and inactive, will get a free BBQ Pork or Chopped Chicken Plate. You’ll need a valid military ID to redeem, along with having to order in-store.

When to go for a free meal: Thursday, Nov. 9, to Saturday, Nov. 11

Sheetz

Not only is convenience chain Sheetz offering a free 6-inch turkey sub and a regular-size fountain drink to active military and veterans, but it’s also throwing in a bonus: These brave men and women can also get a free car wash. Don’t forget to bring proof of military service!

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Sizzler

On Veterans Day, find out which Sizzler is offering a free lunch for active-duty military and veterans. You have several options: a free Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, a Malibu Chicken or a 6-ounce Tri-Tip Steak entree.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Smokey Bones

Smokey Bones is offering veterans and active-duty service members a free Create Your Own Combo meal (dine-in only).

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Smokey Mo’s

If you’re in the military, head on over to Smokey Mo’s for a free breakfast taco. If you’re wondering what’s inside, their taco includes your choice of two items: eggs, potatoes, bacon, chorizo, beans, sausage and cheese.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 7 to 10:30 a.m.

Smoothie King

Head to a participating Smoothie King location for a free smoothie, with proof of military service, from one of its three red, white and blue smoothies. This offer is good for current, veteran or retired military service members, and is valid for in-store orders.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Subway

60 Places Offering Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts in 2023 (7)UCG/Getty Images

Subway may not have a Veterans Day free meal offer in 2023. However, use the code FLBOGO on Subway.com or the Subway app to get a complimentary footlong sub.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Starbucks

Veterans and their spouses can treat themselves to a free 12-ounce hot or iced coffee at various Starbucks locations nationwide. This offer applies to active-duty military members as well.

When to go for a free drink: Saturday, Nov. 11

Sweet Buzz Bean & Bistro

Veterans and active-duty military—and their spouses too!—will get to choose from these three complimentary meals: an egg, cheese, bacon or sausage sandwich with tater tots, a Triple Decker Club (that comes with a side dish) or Cobb Salad.

When to go for a free meal: Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11

Taco John’s

Go to Taco John’s to get a free small Beef Taco Combo Meal. It comes with two Crispy Beef Tacos, a beverage and a choice of side.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

The Lab: Bakery & Coffee Bar

Stop by this bakery and coffee bar for a free cup of coffee and slice of vanilla pound cake—for active-duty military and veterans only.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Tim Horton’s

Show your military ID to get a free small hot coffee. While you’re there, try the other items on the menu, including donuts, sandwiches and bagels.

When to go for a free meal: Saturday, Nov. 11

Sources:

  • VA News: “2023 Veterans Day Retail Discounts, Free Meals and Other Offers”
  • Military.com: “2023 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals and Discounts”
Castle City Creative/Getty ImagesMemorial Day vs. Veterans Day
Greg Kahn for Reader's DigestPowerful Letters Home, from Soldiers
Mike Flippo/ShutterstockFamous Veterans to Know About
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