🇺🇸 Veterans Day 2025 Free Meals & Deals: Full List of Restaurants Offering Freebies

US Veterans Day 2025

Every year on November 11, the United States honors those who have served in the Armed Forces with Veterans Day a day of gratitude, remembrance, and community support. One of the best-known traditions is the array of free meals and special deals offered by restaurants nationwide to veterans and active-duty members.

Here’s a helpful, up-to-date guide for Veterans Day 2025, featuring all the top restaurant freebies, offers, and essential details to make the most of the day.

Key Information

  • Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025

  • Who Qualifies: Veterans, active-duty, National Guard, and reserve members (with valid military ID or proof of service)

  • Type of Offers: Mostly dine-in only; some allow carryout or vouchers.

  • Tip: Always confirm participation with your local restaurant before visiting.

Top Veterans Day 2025 Free Meal Offers

1. Applebee’s

  • Offering a free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu.

  • Many locations also provide a “Thank You” coupon for a future visit.

  • Dine-in only; proof of service required.

2. Chili’s Grill & Bar

  • Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal from a limited Veterans Day menu.

  • Available for dine-in only at participating locations.

3. Olive Garden

  • Free entrée with unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks for veterans and active-duty members.

  • Valid military ID required.

4. Buffalo Wild Wings

  • Free order of 10 boneless wings and fries for veterans and service members.

  • Dine-in or takeout (at participating locations).

5. Chipotle

  • Buy one entrée, get one free deal from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time.

  • Available for veterans, active-duty members, and military spouses.

6. Starbucks

  • Free tall hot or iced brewed coffee for veterans, active-duty members, and their spouses.

  • Available at participating U.S. stores, including drive-thru.

7. Texas Roadhouse

  • Veterans and active-duty members can receive a free meal voucher on November 11.

  • Vouchers can be redeemed for a meal at a later date (typically valid until May 2026).

More Freebies & Discounts

Denny’s

  • Free Original Grand Slam breakfast (pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage) from 5 a.m. to noon.

Cracker Barrel

  • Free Sunrise Pancake Special for veterans and active-duty military.

Krispy Kreme

  • Free doughnut and small coffee for veterans and service members.

Little Caesars

  • Free Lunch Combo (four slices of pizza and a drink) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

  • Free regular-size beverage for veterans, active-duty military, and spouses.

Chicken Salad Chick

  • Free Chick Meal (sandwich or scoop, plus side and drink) for veterans and active-duty personnel.

IHOP

  • Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancakes or a select menu breakfast for veterans.

Outback Steakhouse

  • Free Bloomin’ Onion and a beverage for veterans and active-duty personnel.

Golden Corral

  • Free “Thank You” dinner buffet (usually held from 5 p.m. to close).

Firehouse Subs

  • Free medium sub with valid military ID at participating locations.

Tips to Get the Most from Veterans Day Deals

  1. Bring Valid Proof of Service

    • Military ID, VA card, DD-214, or a driver’s license with veteran designation is accepted at most places.

  2. Arrive Early

    • Breakfast and lunch offers often run out quickly. Morning visits guarantee better availability.

  3. Check Local Participation

    • Not all locations honor national deals; verify through each restaurant’s website or by calling ahead.

  4. Respect Dine-In Rules

    • Many offers are dine-in only; plan accordingly if you’re visiting with family.

  5. Remember to Tip

    • Even if your meal is free, tipping your server is a great way to show appreciation.

Bonus: Free Coffee, Desserts & Snacks

  • Dunkin’ – Free donut (no purchase necessary).

  • Wawa – Free coffee for veterans and active-duty members.

  • Panera Bread – Select locations offer a free bagel and coffee combo.

  • Smoothie King – Free 20-oz smoothie for veterans and military.

  • Sheetz – Free coffee and car wash at participating stores.

Final Thoughts

Veterans Day 2025 is not just about free food — it’s about honoring those who have served. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee, a hearty meal, or a sweet treat, these offers are a small token of appreciation from businesses across America.

Take advantage of these deals responsibly, thank your local restaurant staff, and most importantly — thank a veteran for their service.

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