Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served in the military, and many restaurant chains across the U.S. are showing their appreciation by offering Food and drink freebies and discounts.
Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, a hearty meal, or a refreshing smoothie, these popular chains ensure that veterans and active-duty service members are celebrated on November 11.
Here’s a list of the best deals available for veterans and military personnel this Veterans Day.
Krispy Kreme: Free Doughnut and Coffee
Veterans can stop by Krispy Kreme on Veterans Day to receive a free small coffee (hot or iced) and a doughnut of their choice. Whether craving a classic glazed doughnut or something more indulgent, this sweet deal is perfect for honoring our heroes. The offer is available in-store and through the drive-thru, with a limit of one free coffee and doughnut per guest.
Starbucks: Free Brewed Coffee for Veterans and Military Spouses
Starbucks is offering veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses at participating U.S. stores a free tall (12 oz.) brewed coffee, either hot or iced. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to show appreciation for those who served. Just show your military ID or proof of service to claim your free coffee.
Cracker Barrel: Free Sunrise Pancake Special
Cracker Barrel offers a complimentary Sunrise Pancake Special to veterans and active-duty military personnel dining in. It’s a warm, delicious way to start the day, complete with fluffy pancakes and all the fixings. Available at all Cracker Barrel locations, this offer is perfect for those who want a hearty breakfast to start their Veterans Day.
Texas Roadhouse: Free Meal and Meal Vouchers
Texas Roadhouse continues its Veterans Day tradition by offering veterans and active military members free meals. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., veterans can pick up a meal voucher for one of ten entrées, including two made-from-scratch sides and a drink. The voucher can be redeemed anytime through May 31, 2025. To qualify, veterans must provide proof of service, such as a military or VA card or discharge papers.
White Castle: Free Combo Meal
White Castle is marking Veterans Day by offering veterans and active-duty military personnel a free individual combo meal or a breakfast combo meal. The offer is valid at participating White Castle locations. It’s a great way to enjoy some tasty fast food and show appreciation for our military service.
Smoothie King: Free Smoothie for Veterans
Smoothie King offers veterans free 20 oz—smoothies from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. local time. Veterans can enjoy a patriotic-themed smoothie like the Strawberry X-Treme, Slim-N-Trim Vanilla, or Blueberry Heaven. All you need to do is present a military ID at participating locations.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria: 25% Off for Veterans
Grimaldi supports veterans by offering 25% off to all active, veteran, and retired military personnel with valid IDs. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a delicious pizza or pasta at a discount. The deal is good only on Veterans Day, but the pizzeria offers a 15% discount for military personnel every other day of the year.
Taco John’s: Free Combo for Veterans
Taco John’s is offering a free Combo #1 (Small Crispy Beef Taco Combo) to veterans with a valid military ID. This offer is available through the Taco John’s app for loyalty members, so remember to sign up to take advantage of the deal.
Hard Rock Cafe: Free Legendary Burger for Veterans
Hard Rock Cafe honors veterans and active-duty military members with a free Legendary Burger on Veterans Day. This signature burger is a fan favorite and comes with various toppings. Those accompanying veterans can also benefit from a 15% military meal discount.
Firehouse Subs: Free Combo for Veterans
Firehouse Subs is offering veterans a free combo meal on Veterans Day. The meal includes a medium sub, chips, cookies, and a drink. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot sub or something lighter, this offer has you covered. Visit any Firehouse Subs location to take advantage of the free meal.
California Pizza Kitchen: Free Entree for Veterans
California Pizza Kitchen treats veterans to a free entrée and drink from a prix fixe menu when dining in. Veterans will also receive a Buy One, Get One free coupon for pizza, pasta, or salad, redeemable on future visits between November 12 and November 25.
STK Steakhouse: 50% Off Food
STK Steakhouse is offering 50% off all Food for veterans from Friday, November 8 to Monday, November 11. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a steak dinner and indulge in high-quality cuisine while being appreciated for your service.
Kona Grill: 50% Off Food for Veterans
Kona Grill also offers veterans 50% off all Food from November 8 to November 11. Whether you prefer sushi, pasta, or a hearty entrée, Kona Grill’s extensive menu has something for everyone. During this special promotion, veterans can enjoy a great meal at a fraction of the price.
FAQs
Do I need proof of military service to get these discounts?
Yes, most restaurants require proof of service, such as a military ID, VA card, or discharge papers, to claim free meals or discounts.
Are these deals available at all locations?
Not all restaurant locations participate in these Veterans Day offers. Before heading out, be sure to check with your local branch.
Do I have to dine in for Veterans Day deals?
Some offers are available for dine-in and takeout, but many are for in-store dining. Make sure to confirm the details when you arrive.
Can family members take advantage of these deals?
Restaurants sometimes offer discounts to veterans’ families, especially when dining with a veteran. However, most deals are specifically for veterans or active-duty service members.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Reservations are typically optional for these Veterans Day offers. Still, it’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially for sit-down meals at popular chains like Cracker Barrel or Hard Rock Cafe.