Veterans Day is right around the corner, and restaurants across the country are rolling out some seriously generous offers to say thank you to those who’ve served. We’re talking free meals, free coffee, and some pretty impressive spreads, all available on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. If you’re a veteran or active-duty military member (or you know someone who is), here’s your complete guide to where you can grab a complimentary meal this Veterans Day.
Just a heads up: most of these offers require proof of service, so bring your military ID, veteran ID card, DD214, or other accepted documentation. And yeah, most are dine-in only, so plan accordingly!
Morning Fuel: Coffee, Pancakes & Gratitude
Bob Evans
Bob Evans is going all out with 10 different breakfast and lunch options to choose from, available all day long. Veterans and active-duty military can pick favorites like the Country Biscuit Breakfast, The Classic Breakfast with farm-fresh eggs and breakfast meat, or even the Down-Home Country-Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and green beans. It’s all dine-in only, and you’ll need to show proof of service.
Denny’s
Early birds, this one’s for you! Denny’s is offering their iconic Original Grand Slam for free from 5 a.m. to noon. You’ll get two fluffy buttermilk pancakes, two bacon strips, two sausage links, and two eggs cooked however you like them. The only catch is you’ve gotta get there before noon, and it’s dine-in only. Bring your military ID or DD214.
IHOP
IHOP’s keeping it patriotic with their free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo. This deal includes two buttermilk pancakes topped with glazed strawberries, blueberry topping, and whipped cream, plus two eggs, hash browns, and your choice of bacon or sausage links. Available all day for dine-in only at participating locations.
Starbucks
Need your coffee fix? Starbucks is offering veterans, active-duty military, and military spouses a free tall brewed coffee (hot or iced) on November 11. This one’s available at participating U.S. stores for café and drive-thru orders. Just note that Cold Brew, Nitro, and customizations aren’t included. Plus, Starbucks is donating $200,000 split between the USO and Wounded Warrior Project.
From Steaks to Sliders: Afternoon and Evening Eats
Applebee’s
For the 18th year running, Applebee’s is serving up free full-size entrées from a special Veterans Day menu. Choose from several options including the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, 6 oz Top Sirloin, Double Crunch Shrimp, and Three-Cheese Penne. Even better? You’ll also get a $5 Bounce Back Card to use between November 12-30. Dine-in only at participating locations.
Chili’s
Chili’s is offering veterans and active military a free entrée from a select menu that includes the Oldtimer with Cheese and Fries, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, 3-Count Chicken Crispers, or Soup with Side Salad. Available in-restaurant only.
Golden Corral
Golden Corral’s 25th Annual Military Appreciation Night is pretty legendary. On November 11 from 4 p.m. until close, all veterans, active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard members get a free dinner buffet and beverage. Their endless buffet includes over 150 items including grilled-to-order steaks, fried chicken, pot roast, and way more. Last year, they served more than 185,000 free meals. Military ID isn’t required, but it’s dine-in only and doesn’t extend to family members (though they’re welcome to join at regular pricing).
In-N-Out Burger
West Coast and Southwest folks, In-N-Out has you covered! Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal including any burger, fries, and beverage from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on November 11. Plus, you’ll receive a special edition Veterans Day decal. Available at all In-N-Out locations. Just show proof of military service.
Red Robin
Red Robin is serving up their Red’s Big Tavern Burger with bottomless fries for free to veterans and active-duty military. The burger features a juicy beef patty with American cheese, Red’s Secret Tavern Sauce, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted brioche bun. Last year, they served over 100,000 burgers to military heroes. Dine-in only with valid military ID.
White Castle
White Castle keeps it simple: veterans and active-duty service members get a free Castle Combo or Breakfast Combo on November 11. Dine-in only, not valid with other offers or third-party delivery. One per customer.
Yard House
Yard House is offering veterans and active-duty military a free appetizer from their extensive menu. Choose from options like traditional or boneless wings, firecracker shrimp, fried calamari, chicken nachos, spinach dip, pretzel, or onion ring tower (among many others). One complimentary appetizer per person, dine-in only, no purchase necessary.
Don’t Forget the Details
Most restaurants require proof of service, so bring your military ID, VA card, DD214, or other accepted documentation. Many offers are dine-in only, so takeout and delivery typically won’t work. And if you’re planning to hit multiple spots, just remember that some have specific time windows like Denny’s morning-only offer or Golden Corral’s 4 p.m. start time.
This Veterans Day, take advantage of these offers and enjoy a well-deserved meal (or two). Thank you for your service! 🇺🇸