Christmas Day is one of the trickiest days to find an open restaurant — but it's far from impossible. Whether you're traveling, avoiding cooking, or just want to try something different for the holidays, plenty of restaurants stay open on December 25th. Here's everything you need to know.
Always Open on Christmas
Chinese Restaurants Traditionally Open
The legendary American tradition: eating Chinese food on Christmas. Chinese restaurants are among the most reliable restaurants open on Christmas Day, as they observe different holidays. This tradition has been enjoyed by millions of Americans for decades — especially Jewish families in large cities who popularized it. Expect a lively atmosphere and possibly a wait at popular spots.
Denny's Always Open
Denny's is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. Christmas is no exception. You'll find their full menu available, and some locations even serve special holiday specials. If all else fails, Denny's is your guaranteed fallback.
Waffle House Always Open
Waffle House has never closed. Not for weather, not for pandemics, not for Christmas. If you need breakfast on Christmas morning, Waffle House will be there. Employees who work on Christmas are often regulars who volunteered for the holiday shift.
IHOP Usually Open
Most IHOP locations are open on Christmas with reduced hours. Their holiday menu often includes seasonal pancakes and specials. Call your nearest location to confirm hours.
Fast Food Open on Christmas Day
- McDonald's — Most locations open, often with holiday hours
- Burger King — Many locations open
- Taco Bell — Many locations open
- Jack in the Box — Most locations 24 hours
- Wendy's — Many locations open
- Domino's Pizza — Delivery available at many locations
- Pizza Hut — Delivery at many locations
- Chick-fil-A — CLOSED (always closed on Sundays and all major holidays)
- Starbucks — Most company-owned stores CLOSED; some licensed locations open
Ethnic Restaurants Often Open on Christmas
Restaurants serving cuisines outside the Western Christmas tradition often stay open:
- Chinese restaurants — Traditionally the most popular Christmas option
- Indian restaurants — Many stay open, especially in cities
- Japanese restaurants / ramen shops — Often open
- Thai restaurants — Many stay open
- Middle Eastern restaurants — Frequently open
- Korean BBQ restaurants — Often open in Korean neighborhoods
Other Reliable Options
- Hotel restaurants — Almost always open, often with special Christmas brunch
- Casino restaurants — Open 24/7 with special holiday menus
- Airport restaurants — Open for travelers
- Movie theater concessions — Open whenever movies are showing
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas
- Make reservations early — Open restaurants fill up fast on Christmas
- Check holiday hours via app — More reliable than Google Maps for real-time updates
- Have a backup plan — Confirm open hours before driving
- Go early or late — Peak Christmas dining is 12pm–3pm; avoid the rush
- Tip generously — Staff working Christmas deserve your appreciation
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