Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 25, 2026 — and if you’re wondering where you can grab a bite without cooking, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re skipping the grill this year or just need a quick coffee run before a parade, the good news is that the vast majority of restaurants, fast food chains, and casual dining spots remain open on Memorial Day. A few fan favorites do close, and many are sweetening the deal with special discounts and freebies. Here’s everything you need to know.
Key Points Summary
╔════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ – Most major restaurant chains are open on Memorial Day 2026. ║
║ – McDonald's, Starbucks, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, Dunkin', ║
║ and Wendy's are all confirmed open. ║
║ – Raising Cane's is one of the few chains confirmed CLOSED. ║
║ – Dozens of chains are offering military discounts and ║
║ special Memorial Day deals in 2026. ║
║ – Always verify your local location's hours via the ║
║ brand's app or website, as franchise hours can vary. ║
╚════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝Is Memorial Day a Big Restaurant Holiday?
Unlike Thanksgiving or Christmas, Memorial Day is one of the most restaurant-friendly federal holidays on the calendar. It marks the unofficial start of summer, and most national chains treat it like a regular Monday — sometimes with bonus deals attached. Whether you want a sit-down brunch, a fast food run, or a holiday feast with the family, your options are plentiful.
Fast Food Restaurants Open on Memorial Day 2026
McDonald’s
Most McDonald’s locations operate on Memorial Day, though exact opening and closing times depend on the individual franchise owner. Check the McDonald’s app or use the store locator for your nearest location’s specific holiday schedule.
Starbucks
Starbucks will be open on Memorial Day 2026, though some stores may operate on reduced hours. Use the Starbucks app to find your nearest location and its updated holiday hours before heading out.
Chick-fil-A
Yes — Chick-fil-A is open on Memorial Day 2026. This is notable because Chick-fil-A is closed on Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas. Hours are set by individual franchise operators, so check with your local restaurant.
Chipotle
Chipotle is expected to operate its regular hours on Memorial Day, offering its full menu for dine-in, pickup, and delivery.
Dunkin’
Most Dunkin’ locations will be open, though hours can vary by store. Check the Dunkin’ app or their online store locator for exact hours at your nearest location.
Wendy’s
Taco Bell
Taco Bell is generally open throughout Memorial Day weekend and the holiday itself. Hours will vary by location, so confirming through the app is always wise.
Burger King
Burger King is expected to be open with regular hours, though as with other franchised chains, specific locations may adjust their timing.
Subway
Subway restaurants are typically open on Memorial Day. In 2026, Subway is also running a $6.99 footlong deal (valid through June 2) for Sub Club members using code 699FL in the app or on the website.
Domino’s & Papa John’s
Both pizza chains are generally open on Memorial Day and often maintain full delivery services, making them a great option if you’d rather stay home.
KFC
KFC restaurants are generally open on Memorial Day, though hours can differ by franchise location.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack should be open, though some urban or mall-based locations may operate on slightly adjusted hours.
In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out is typically open on Memorial Day, with some locations potentially closing a little earlier than usual.
Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme shops are expected to be open on Memorial Day 2026, though holiday hours may vary by location.
Casual & Sit-Down Restaurants Open on Memorial Day 2026
Applebee’s
Applebee’s locations should be open on Memorial Day, often running regular dine-in service. In 2026, Applebee’s is also offering an All-You-Can-Eat deal (boneless wings, riblets, or Double Crunch Shrimp) for $15.99 — valid for dine-in only.
Chili’s
Chili’s is expected to be open and often offers discounted or free meals for military personnel around Memorial Day. Bring a valid military ID to check for local offers.
Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse typically remains open on Memorial Day and has historically offered free meals to veterans and active-duty military. Confirm with your local restaurant for 2026 specifics.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback is generally open on Memorial Day and often provides military appreciation deals. Check with your local Outback or their website for current offers.
Benihana
Benihana is typically open and may offer discounts for military members on Memorial Day. Call ahead or check their site to confirm.
Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão is offering one of the most generous military deals of 2026: active-duty military members and veterans receive 50% off a Full Churrasco or Indulgent Churrasco when showing a valid military ID. Guests dining with military personnel receive 10% off as well. This offer is valid May 22–25, 2026.
STK Steakhouse
Veterans, active-duty military, reserves, and first responders can enjoy a free entrée from a special menu with the purchase of an appetizer or starter at STK Steakhouse through May 25. Valid for dine-in with a valid ID.
Restaurants Closed on Memorial Day 2026
While most chains stay open, a notable exception is:
- Raising Cane’s — Confirmed closed on Memorial Day 2026.
Always double-check before heading out, as other local or independently owned restaurants may also choose to close for the holiday.
Best Memorial Day 2026 Restaurant Deals & Freebies
Memorial Day 2026 comes with a strong lineup of restaurant promotions. Here’s a snapshot of confirmed deals:
7-Eleven
7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members can enjoy:
- $4 hot breakfast bundle (any breakfast sandwich, crispy Waffle Tots, and a select energy drink) at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes locations.
- $20 off orders of $30 or more through the 7NOW Delivery app on Memorial Day with code MONDAY20.
Firehouse Subs
Buy one sub and get a second at 50% off at participating locations through May 25, 2026. The deal includes the new Steak & Cheese Melt.
Fazoli’s
Get a free pizza with the purchase of any Family Meal using code MEMORIAL26! through May 27, 2026.
Fogo de Chão
Military members and veterans receive 50% off Full or Indulgent Churrasco with a valid ID (May 22–25). Dining companions receive 10% off.
Gong Cha
Customers get one free topping with any in-store purchase on Memorial Day.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Active duty and retired military can show a valid ID for 15% off on May 25 at participating locations. The offer cannot be combined with other promotions.
Perkins Restaurant
Perkins is honoring military personnel with a free Magnificent Seven Breakfast on Memorial Day at participating locations.
Smalls Sliders
Active military members receive a 10% discount with a valid military ID on Memorial Day.
Sonic
Sonic is running a deal valid through May 31: a free Sonic Smasher or All-American Smasher with a $5 purchase. Check the Sonic app for details.
STK Steakhouse
Veterans, active-duty, reserves, and first responders get a free entrée from a special menu with the purchase of an appetizer or starter through May 25 (dine-in, valid ID required).
Subway
$6.99 footlongs for Sub Club members using code 699FL through June 2 (excludes Fresh Fit, Big Hot Pastrami, and 5 Meat Italian).
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Two Sullivan’s Signature Angus Burgers and Fries for $26 through May 25.
Tips for Dining Out on Memorial Day
- Call ahead or check the app. Even if a chain is “open,” your nearest franchise may have adjusted hours. Most major brands have a store locator or app for real-time hours.
- Use delivery apps. If you don’t want to leave home, Domino’s, Papa John’s, and many other chains maintain full delivery service on Memorial Day.
- Carry your military ID. Dozens of chains offer free or discounted meals for veterans and active-duty service members — but most require you to show a valid ID at the time of purchase.
- Check for deals early. Many restaurant deals begin on Friday, May 22, and run through the holiday weekend. Don’t wait until Monday to take advantage.
- Book sit-down restaurants in advance. Casual dining spots can fill up quickly on Memorial Day, especially for brunch and dinner.
What About Grocery Stores and Other Services?
If you’re stocking up for a cookout instead, most major grocery stores — including Kroger, Aldi, H-E-B, Trader Joe’s, Publix, and Whole Foods — will be open on Memorial Day, though hours may vary. Costco is one of the few major retailers that will be closed on May 25, 2026.
Banks, the U.S. Postal Service, UPS, FedEx, and most government offices will also be closed for the federal holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McDonald’s open on Memorial Day 2026? Yes, most McDonald’s locations are open on Memorial Day. Hours vary by franchise, so check the app for your local store.
Is Chick-fil-A open on Memorial Day? Yes. Unlike Thanksgiving and Christmas, Chick-fil-A is open on Memorial Day 2026. Check with your local restaurant for hours.
What restaurants are closed on Memorial Day 2026? Raising Cane’s has confirmed it will be closed. Some locally owned restaurants may also be closed — always check before visiting.
Are there free meals for veterans on Memorial Day? Yes! Several chains, including Fogo de Chão, STK Steakhouse, Perkins, Grimaldi’s, and Smalls Sliders, are offering free or discounted meals for military members with valid ID in 2026.
When is Memorial Day 2026? Memorial Day 2026 falls on Monday, May 25, 2026 — the last Monday of May.
Drop a comment below to share where you’re eating this Memorial Day, or bookmark this page — we update it every year with the latest hours, deals, and restaurant news!