Hungry? Honestly, most of us associate Memorial Day with backyards, charcoal smoke, and that one neighbor who overcooks the burgers. But sometimes you just don't want to deal with the prep. Or maybe you're traveling and need a reliable pit stop.
The good news? You aren't going to starve. While banks and post offices lock their doors tight, the food industry generally stays wide open to catch the holiday foot traffic.
Knowing exactly what restaurants are open Memorial Day can save you from a disappointing drive to a darkened storefront. Most national chains treat the last Monday in May like any other business day, though "franchise discretion" is the phrase of the hour. Basically, if a local owner wants to give their staff a break, they might.
Fast Food and Quick Service Spots
If you're looking for something fast, the giants have your back. McDonald’s is the most reliable bet. With over 13,000 locations in the U.S., they almost never close for federal holidays unless they're inside a mall that's shut down.
Burger King and Wendy's follow the same playbook. You'll find them flipping patties on their regular schedules. Interestingly, Wendy’s often targets this weekend for specific promotions through their app, sometimes linking up with veteran-focused rewards.
Then there's the Chick-fil-A question. People always ask because of their famous Sunday closures. Since Memorial Day is always a Monday, they are typically open. However, individual operators have more leeway than you'd think, so the app is your best friend here.
Subway is a bit of a wildcard. Because so many are independently owned, hours vary wildly. One might close at 6 p.m. while another down the street stays open until 10 p.m.
- McDonald’s: Usually regular hours (many 24/7).
- Taco Bell: Most open regular hours; check mall-based units.
- Chipotle: Generally open 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sonic Drive-In: Open, perfect for those holiday milkshakes.
- Dunkin’: Open, but morning rushes can be brutal.
Casual Dining and Sit-Down Chains
Maybe you want a booth and a waiter. Applebee’s and Chili’s are staples for a reason—they stay open. They actually lean into the "unofficial start of summer" vibe.
Cracker Barrel is another heavy hitter. They don't just stay open; they expect a crowd. It’s one of their busiest mornings of the year for breakfast. If you're heading there, expect a wait time that might involve sitting in a rocking chair for a while.
The Cheesecake Factory and Olive Garden also keep the lights on. It’s worth noting that while the kitchen is open, some locations might trim their late-night hours.
Steakhouse Options
If you want the steak without the grill flare-ups, you're in luck.
- Texas Roadhouse: Often opens early (around 11 a.m.) on the holiday.
- Outback Steakhouse: Open and usually offering "Heroes" discounts for service members.
- LongHorn Steakhouse: Full menu, regular hours.
- Ruth’s Chris: For those wanting a more upscale "thank you" dinner.
Military Discounts and Deals to Watch For
Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, and many businesses acknowledge this with more than just open doors. Several spots offer significant "thank you" discounts for active-duty military and veterans.
Fogo de Chão has historically been very generous, often offering 50% off for veterans and 10% for their guests. That’s a massive discount for a high-end Brazilian steakhouse experience.
Joe's Crab Shack and Bonefish Grill usually offer around 15% off for those with a valid military ID. Even if a restaurant doesn't have a specific "Memorial Day Deal" listed on a flyer, it’s always worth asking if they have a standard military discount. Most national chains do, ranging from 10% to 20%.
The "Check Before You Trek" Rule
Look, things change. A staff shortage or a local parade can shift hours in a heartbeat.
Don't rely on the hours listed on Google Maps. They are often "estimated" for holidays. The most accurate way to verify is the brand’s official app or a quick 30-second phone call.
Also, keep in mind that "Open" doesn't mean "Full Service." Some places might keep the drive-thru running but close the dining room early to let staff get to their own family barbecues.
Practical Tips for Dining Out
If you’re planning a group meal, make a reservation now. People underestimate how many families give up on grilling and head to the local diner instead.
- Timing: Aim for "off-peak" hours (like 3 p.m. or 8 p.m.) to avoid the post-parade rush.
- Apps: Download the rewards apps for places like Buffalo Wild Wings or Denny's. They often drop "flash" coupons for the long weekend.
- Delivery: Expect longer wait times on DoorDash or Uber Eats. Drivers take holidays off too.
Actionable Next Steps
Check your favorite restaurant's social media pages—Instagram or Facebook—at least 24 hours before Monday. Chains like IHOP or Texas Roadhouse often post their specific holiday hours or special "bundle" deals there first. If you're a veteran, ensure you have your ID or a digital proof of service ready on your phone to claim any available discounts. Finally, if you're eyeing a popular spot like Cracker Barrel, use their online "waitlist" feature before you even leave the house to skip the inevitable porch crowd.