12 best Veterans Day restaurant deals for free meals

Veterans Day brings more than just a day off work for many Americans. On Tuesday, Nov. 11, restaurants nationwide are rolling out special offers to honor military members, both past and present. From breakfast through dinner, those who served can enjoy complimentary meals and significant discounts at hundreds of locations across the country.

The holiday originated as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I when fighting ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Congress changed the name to Veterans Day in 1954, and the tradition of honoring service members has grown to include generous gestures from businesses nationwide. Most offers require valid military identification such as a Veteran ID Card or DD214 documentation showing time served.

1. Applebee’s offers full-sized entrees

Veterans and active-duty military, including reservists and National Guard members, can select a free full-sized entree from an exclusive Veterans Day menu featuring seven popular items like the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger and Double Crunch Shrimp. At locations owned by the Flynn Group, guests can also purchase prepaid pints of beer for veterans, with unclaimed drinks having funds donated to local veterans charities. Other locations will provide veterans with a $5 Bounce Back Card for future visits.

2. Chipotle doubles up on entrees

Military community members with valid identification can order any entree and receive a second one free between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. local time. The chain also allows customers to round up their order totals through Nov. 16 to donate to the United Service Organizations through its Round Up for Real Change feature.

3. Red Lobster serves complimentary seafood

All veterans, active-duty military and reserves can claim a free Shrimp & Chips entree, which includes Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, fries and coleslaw. Service members simply need to show proof of service to receive the meal.

4. Starbucks provides coffee for families

The coffee giant extends its offer beyond just veterans and service members to include military spouses. Participating U.S. stores will give free tall 12-ounce brewed coffee, either hot or iced, though Cold Brew is excluded from the promotion. The offer applies at cafes and drive-thru locations.

5. Cracker Barrel starts the day right

Veterans and active-duty military dining in at any of the nearly 660 locations receive a free Sunrise Pancake Special, consisting of two buttermilk pancakes served with fresh eggs or breakfast meat. The restaurant chain also offers 25 percent off Duke Cannon products and military-themed merchandise both in stores and online while supplies last.

6. IHOP creates patriotic breakfast

Veterans and active-duty personnel can enjoy a free Red, White and Blueberry Pancake Combo when dining in. The meal includes two buttermilk pancakes topped with strawberries, blueberry topping and whipped topping, plus two eggs, hash browns and a choice of bacon strips or pork sausage links.

7. Golden Corral welcomes dinner guests

All veterans, active-duty military, retirees, reservists and guardsmen receive a free buffet meal with beverage from 4 p.m. to closing time. The offer applies only to dine-in service and does not extend to spouses, family members or friends accompanying the service member.

8. Chili’s delivers multiple options

Veterans and active military personnel can choose a complimentary entree when dining at any location. Options include an Oldtimer with Cheese and Fries, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas and 3-Count Chicken Crispers Soup with Side Salad, though beverages and gratuity are not included.

9. Buffalo Wild Wings serves wings and fries

Past and present armed service members can claim 10 free Boneless Wings and Fries with valid identification. The offer applies to dine-in and walk-in orders at participating locations throughout the day.

10. Outback Steakhouse celebrates two days

For both the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday on Monday, Nov. 10, and Veterans Day on Nov. 11, those with valid veterans and active-duty military identification can receive a free Aussie 3-Course Meal. The offer applies to select entrees and dine-in service only.

11. Olive Garden extends gratitude

Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a complimentary entree from a special menu when dining in. The Italian restaurant chain requires proof of service and limits the offer to dine-in guests only.

12. Krispy Kreme sweetens the deal

Veterans and active-duty military personnel can claim a free small hot or iced coffee along with a free doughnut of their choice. The offer applies in shops and at drive-thru locations with no other purchase necessary, limited to one per guest.

Many restaurants extend their appreciation beyond Veterans Day, offering year-round military discounts ranging from 10 to 15 percent off regular menu prices. Service members should always confirm participation with their local restaurant location before visiting, as some offers vary by franchise ownership and geographic area.

Source: USA TODAY