Veterans Day 2026: Where Veterans and Active-Duty Military Can Score Free Meals and Deals

SAN ANGELO, TX -- Wednesday is Veterans Day in the U.S., the annual federal holiday honoring those who have served in the military. 

It falls on November 11 each year and is rooted in the end of World War I (originally observed as Armistice Day). 

Congress officially renamed it Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize American veterans of all wars. 

Because it is a federal holiday, many government offices will be closed, including the U.S. Postal Service and most banks. Other businesses typically remain open, and many restaurants and chains are offering free meals, discounts, or special deals to veterans and active-duty service members as a way of saying thank you. 

Here are some of the best restaurant deals available for Veterans Day 2026. Most require proof of service (such as a military ID, VA identification, or DD-214) and are limited to participating locations. Many are dine-in only. Always check with your local restaurant in advance, as details can vary by location. 

Restaurant Deals for Veterans Day 2026:

• 7 Brew: Veterans can enjoy 50% off their drink order at participating stands.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: On Nov. 11, veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy 10 free boneless wings and fries by showing a valid ID or WeSalute+ ID Card. This offer is available for dine-in, orders placed at a Buffalo Wild Wings GO location, or walk-in orders at the counter.
• Chili’s: All veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal on November 11 at participating locations (from a select menu). Available in-restaurant only.
• Chipotle: On Nov. 11, active-duty military members and veterans get free chips and their choice of guac, Queso Blanco, or salsa with a $5 purchase.
• Denny’s: On Nov. 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel can get a free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. until noon local time. Eligible guests must present a valid military ID or DD-214. Dine-in only at participating restaurants.
• Einstein Bros. Bagels: Veterans and active-duty military get a free hot or iced coffee (any size) on Nov. 11 with any purchase.
• Firehouse Subs: Active-duty military personnel and veterans can purchase any size sub and receive a second sub for free on Nov. 11.
• Golden Corral: Hosting Military Appreciation Night on Nov. 11 from 4 p.m. to close. This includes a free “thank you” meal (buffet and beverage) when dining in.
• IHOP: Veterans and active-duty military get a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo on Nov. 11. Dine-in only.
• Little Caesars: From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., veterans and active military can enjoy a complimentary Lunch Combo on Nov. 11. In-store only.
• Olive Garden: Veterans and active-duty military who dine in receive a free entrée from a special menu on Nov. 11.
• Outback Steakhouse: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage when they dine in on Nov. 10 and 11. They can also enjoy a free Hero’s Meal for a future visit through Outback’s Dine Rewards.
• SONIC: Veterans and active-duty military members can get half-priced shakes in any size and flavor (including Classic and Master Shakes) on Nov. 11.
• Starbucks: Offering veterans and active-duty military members a free tall (12-ounce) hot or cold brewed coffee on Nov. 11.
• Texas Roadhouse: Free meal vouchers for veterans and active-duty U.S. military members on Nov. 11, available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vouchers can be redeemed through May 31, 2027, for a choice of 10 entrées (including a 6-ounce sirloin), plus two sides and a Coca-Cola product, sweet tea, iced tea, or coffee.
• Wendy’s: Offering veterans and active-duty military a free Dave’s Single at participating U.S. restaurants on Nov. 11.

Tips for redeeming deals:

• Bring valid proof of military service even if not explicitly required.
• Confirm participating locations and any time restrictions beforehand.
• Most free meals exclude beverages, tax, and tip.