Veterans Day deals and discounts 2025: Restaurants and chains across the United States are extending gratitude to service members this Veterans Day 2025, offering a wide range of free meals, discounts, and special menu deals for veterans and active-duty military personnel on Tuesday, November 11.
The annual observance, rooted in the 1918 Armistice that ended World War I, continues to serve as a moment of national appreciation. From casual eateries to coffee chains, participating establishments are opening their doors to honor those who have served the nation.
To avail of most Veterans Day deals 2025, guests must present a valid military ID, such as a Veteran ID Card or DD214, with offers generally limited to dine-in orders at participating locations, as per a report by USA Today.
Chipotle is hosting a “Buy One, Get One Free” promotion from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for active-duty and retired service members with valid military identification. The chain will also allow customers to round up their purchases to support the United Service Organizations (USO) through its in-app “Round Up for Real Change” feature, as per a report by USA Today.
At Krispy Kreme, veterans can enjoy a free doughnut and coffee, hot or iced, with no purchase necessary.
Red Lobster is offering a free Shrimp & Chips entrée, while Starbucks continues its tradition of giving veterans, service members, and military spouses a free tall (12 oz.) brewed coffee on November 11, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.
Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle menu, will provide a free Sunrise Pancake Special to dining veterans and active-duty personnel, alongside 25% off Duke Cannon products and military-themed merchandise in stores and online.
Many restaurants specify dine-in eligibility only, though some, such as Chipotle and Krispy Kreme, extend their offers to takeout or drive-thru customers.
The annual observance, rooted in the 1918 Armistice that ended World War I, continues to serve as a moment of national appreciation. From casual eateries to coffee chains, participating establishments are opening their doors to honor those who have served the nation.
Origins of Veterans Day
Initially known as Armistice Day, the commemoration began to mark the end of World War I after the armistice agreement signed on November 11, 1918 — “the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.” Congress later transformed it into Veterans Day in 1954, broadening its recognition to honor all U.S. military veterans.To avail of most Veterans Day deals 2025, guests must present a valid military ID, such as a Veteran ID Card or DD214, with offers generally limited to dine-in orders at participating locations, as per a report by USA Today.
Veterans Day Meals: Free Entrees and Special Offers
Applebee’s, one of the nation’s largest casual dining chains, is offering a complimentary full-sized entrée from a special Veterans Day Menu featuring popular items like the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger and Double Crunch Shrimp. Participating Flynn Group locations are also running a “Buy a Beer for a Veteran” campaign, allowing guests to prepay a pint for a service member.Chipotle is hosting a “Buy One, Get One Free” promotion from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for active-duty and retired service members with valid military identification. The chain will also allow customers to round up their purchases to support the United Service Organizations (USO) through its in-app “Round Up for Real Change” feature, as per a report by USA Today.
At Krispy Kreme, veterans can enjoy a free doughnut and coffee, hot or iced, with no purchase necessary.
Red Lobster is offering a free Shrimp & Chips entrée, while Starbucks continues its tradition of giving veterans, service members, and military spouses a free tall (12 oz.) brewed coffee on November 11, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.
Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle menu, will provide a free Sunrise Pancake Special to dining veterans and active-duty personnel, alongside 25% off Duke Cannon products and military-themed merchandise in stores and online.
Veterans Day Discounts and More Participating Restaurants
A range of other national chains are participating in Veterans Day restaurant deals 2025:- Arby’s: Free Classic Roast Beef Sandwich for veterans and service members with valid ID at participating Flynn Group locations.
- Benihana: Free entrée valued up to $59 for veterans and active-duty military.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Ten free boneless wings and fries with a valid military ID.
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie dessert for dine-in veterans; plus, a future appetizer reward.
- Chili’s: Complimentary entrée from a limited menu, including favorites like Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas and Oldtimer with Cheese.
- California Pizza Kitchen: Free entrée and beverage, plus a Buy One Get One bounce-back card for future use.
- Casey’s: Free coffee or fountain drink for veterans, with select locations offering a free car wash.
- City Barbeque: Free sandwich, side, and drink combo meal for veterans.
- Dave & Buster’s: Free entrée (up to $20) and a $10 Power Card for gameplay.
- Firehouse Subs: Buy one, get one free sub for veterans and active-duty members.
How to Claim Veterans Day Offers
Most Veterans Day discounts are available on Tuesday, November 11, and require proof of service — such as a military uniform, veteran’s ID, or other documentation. Several chains encourage patrons to call ahead or check their local restaurant’s participation online, as deals may vary by location, as per the report by USA Today.Many restaurants specify dine-in eligibility only, though some, such as Chipotle and Krispy Kreme, extend their offers to takeout or drive-thru customers.
