Where Can I Eat for Free on Veterans Day?
As a token of appreciation for their service and sacrifice, many restaurants and food establishments offer free meals to veterans on Veterans Day, November 11th. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find out where you can eat for free on this special day.
Fast Food Chains
Many fast-food chains offer free meals to veterans on Veterans Day. Here are some of the notable ones:
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Dunkin’ Donuts offers a free breakfast sandwich to all veterans and active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID.
- Starbucks: Starbucks offers a free tall brewed coffee to all veterans and active-duty military personnel.
- Wendy’s: Wendy’s offers a free Dave’s Single burger to all veterans and active-duty military personnel.
- KFC: KFC offers a free meal to all veterans and active-duty military personnel, including a chicken breast or extra crispy tenders, mashed potatoes, and a biscuit.
- Subway: Subway offers a free 6-inch sub to all veterans and active-duty military personnel.
- McDonald’s: McDonald’s offers a free entree to all veterans and active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID.
Casual Dining Restaurants
Many casual dining restaurants also offer free meals to veterans on Veterans Day. Here are some of the notable ones:
| Restaurant | Free Meal Offered |
|---|---|
| Olive Garden: A free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu | |
| Red Robin: A free Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries | |
| Applebee’s: A free entree from a special Veterans Day menu | |
| IHOP: A free stack of pancakes and a small drink | |
| TGI Fridays: A free meal from a special Veterans Day menu | |
| Chili’s: A free meal from a special Veterans Day menu |
Fine Dining Restaurants
Even some fine dining restaurants offer special deals and discounts to veterans on Veterans Day. Here are some of the notable ones:
| Restaurant | Free Meal Offered |
|---|---|
| The Cheesecake Factory: A free meal from a special Veterans Day menu | |
| BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse: A free entree from a special Veterans Day menu | |
| Famous Dave’s: A free two-meat combo with the purchase of a drink |
Other Establishments
Some other establishments also offer free meals to veterans on Veterans Day. Here are some of the notable ones:
- Buffets: Many buffets offer free meals to veterans, including Golden Corral and Famous Daves.
- Coffee Shops: Some coffee shops offer free coffee and pastries to veterans, including Dunn Brothers Coffee and Caribou Coffee.
- Pubs: Some pubs offer free meals to veterans, including The Old Toad and The Patriot.
Important Points to Remember
- Verification Required: Most establishments require verification of military service, so be prepared to show your military ID, discharge papers, or other proof of service.
- Participation May Vary: Not all locations of a particular restaurant or establishment may participate in the free meal offer, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.
- Meal Choices May Be Limited: Some establishments may offer limited meal choices or a fixed menu for free meals, so be prepared to choose from a limited selection.
- Gratuities May Not Be Included: While some establishments may include gratuities in the free meal offer, others may not, so be prepared to leave a tip if you receive excellent service.
Conclusion
Veterans Day is a special day to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes. Many restaurants and food establishments show their appreciation by offering free meals to veterans on this day. Whether you’re in the mood for a fast-food fix or a fine dining experience, there are plenty of options available. Remember to verify participation and meal choices ahead of time, and don’t forget to show your appreciation for the service and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans.
