Thank you for your service. Everyone wants to thank veterans and active military members for their courage and sacrifice. And many restaurants and businesses show their appreciation on Veterans Day with a FREE or discounted meal or service on Nov. 11.
Most deals are only open to veterans and active military members. The offers don’t include gratuity or tax (in some cases), so be prepared to pay a little extra if necessary.
In addition, proof of military status is required for all offers. Be prepared to show military ID verifying your service or show up in uniform.
There is a limit of one offer per person at participating locations, while supplies last. (Price and participation may vary by location, city and/or market, so check details before making plans.)
Finally, most (if not, all) of the offers are valid for dine-in only.
Deals for this year haven’t been announced yet, but below you’ll find what was available last year. As always, more deals will be added as they’re confirmed, so make sure you check back. If you know of any deals we left out, please comment below. (Living on the Cheap will only include the deals we are able to independently verify.)
And always make sure to check out the single deals listed in the Dining category of Living on the Cheap!
While we’re compiling this year’s Veterans Day deals, be sure to read our article about how to find military discounts year-round.
Last year’s Veterans Day deals and freebies
Applebee’s
For 14 years, Applebee’s has served more than 10 million meals in honor of our nation’s heroes. On Nov. 11, veterans and active service members can enjoy a FREE meal from a select menu, including: 6-oz. Top Sirloin, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Chicken Tenders Platter, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Oriental Chicken Salad or Three-Cheese Chicken Penne.
Arby’s
Arby’s has a meaty offer for veterans and active duty military. On Nov. 11, the fast-food restaurant is giving vets a FREE Classic Roast Beef Sandwich. The offer is available at participating locations in Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Washington, Wyoming and the greater St. Louis area.
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
Vets and active duty military can head to Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar for a classic American meal. Vets enjoy a FREE All-American Burger (with choice of cheese) and basic side (fries, tots, sweet potato fries or chips) — from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bar Louie
Vets and active or retired military members can celebrate Veterans Day at Bar Louie with a complimentary burger. Vets enjoy a FREE Craft Burger of their choice on Nov. 11.
bartaco
Active duty and retired military can relax at bartaco on Veterans Day. The upscale street taco and specialty cocktail restaurant is offering them 20% off their dine-in food purchase on Nov. 11.
Bed Bath & Beyond
Vets can stock up on savings at Bed Bath & Beyond for Veterans Day. From Nov. 11 to 13, the popular big box retailer is hosting its “U.S. Armed Forces Appreciation Event” — save 25% on an entire purchase online or in-store.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
On Nov. 11, current and former military who dine-in at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will receive a FREE entrée (from a select menu) and a Dr. Pepper beverage. The entrée options include the following: BJ’s Sauced ‘n’ Tossed Chicken Thighs, Bacon Cheeseburger, Bacon-Guacamole Deluxe Burger, Deep Dish Ziti, Grilled Chicken Alfredo, Jumbo Spaghetti & Meatballs, Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, Mediterranean Chicken Pita Tacos, Small BJ’s Deep Dish Pizza or Soup & Salad Combo.
Bob Evans
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a comforting meal at Bob Evans on Nov. 11. The restaurant is offering them a FREE meal on Veterans Day. The entrée choices include the following: Hand-Breaded Crispy Fried Chicken, Country Biscuit Breakfast, Brioche French Toast, The Mini Sampler, Stack of Hotcakes, Country Fried Steak or Soup & Salad Combo.
Bonefish Grill
Vets are honored every day at Bonefish Grill. The restaurant’s Heroes Discount is offered all year long — 10% off for all service members, veterans and first responders.
Bruegger’s Bagels
On Nov. 11, vets can grab a complimentary pick-me-up at Bruegger’s Bagels. The bagel shop is pouring them a FREE any size iced or hot coffee with any purchase on Veterans Day.
Bubba’s 33
Vets and active military service members have two options at Bubba’s 33 on Nov. 11. Vets can enjoy a FREE lunch from a select menu — from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If the time isn’t convenient, vets can stop by and pick a voucher for a future visit.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Vets can just “wing it” on Veterans Day at Buffalo Wild Wings. The restaurant is offering all past and present armed services members a FREE order of 10 boneless wings and fries. The offer is available for dine-in or takeout.
California Pizza Kitchen
Veterans and active military can grab a slice of this Veterans Day offer from California Pizza Kitchen. The eatery is serving them a FREE entrée and beverage from a select menu on Nov. 11.
Caribou Coffee
Veterans and active military can stir things up on Veterans Day at Caribou Coffee. The Midwest-based coffee shop is pouring them a FREE small hot brewed coffee on Nov. 11.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Vets are honored every day at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The restaurant’s Heroes Discount is offered all year long — 10% off for all service members, veterans and first responders.
Car washing
Vets can get revved up for a little car maintenance on Nov. 11. Grace For Vets is again coordinating a FREE car wash for veterans and military personnel on Nov. 11, thanks to participating car wash locations across the country. For locations, click here.
Casey’s
Service members (both past and present) can get energized on Veterans Day at Casey’s. The convenience store is serving them a FREE small cup of coffee on Nov. 11.
Chicken Salad Chick
Veterans and active service military will receive a FREE Chick Special and regular drink at Chicken Salad Chick on Nov. 11. The chicken chain has 217 locations in 17 states.
Chili’s
Vets and active military members can heat up Veterans Day at Chili’s. Vets enjoy a FREE entrée from a select menu, including the following: Chicken Crispers, Margarita Grilled Chicken, Soup & Salad, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Just Bacon Burger, Oldtimer with Cheese or Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Cotton Patch Café
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a complimentary meal at Cotton Patch Café on Veterans Day. The diner is serving them a FREE Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken Fried Chicken entrée on Nov. 11. The regional restaurant chain has 47 locations in New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
Cracker Barrel
Veterans can enjoy a sweet treat at Cracker Barrel on Nov. 11. The restaurants is serving them a FREE slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake with purchase on Veterans Day. The offer is available in-restaurant and online with promo code VETSDAY21.
Denny’s
All active, inactive and military personnel can start their Veterans Day with a hearty breakfast at Denny’s. The popular diner is serving them a FREE Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon. on Nov. 11. Hours may vary by location.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Vets and active-military members can make a pit stop on Veterans Day at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit for a meaty offer. The barbecue restaurant is giving them a FREE pulled pork sandwich with promo code VETFREE. The offer can be redeemed in-store for carryout or online for pick-up.
Dollar General
Stretch your dollar even more at Dollar General. Veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and Reserve and their immediate family members receive 20% off on qualifying in-store purchases — from Nov. 11 to 14. Eligible customers need to complete a military credential verification process online at dollargeneral.com/military and, then, add the discount as a DG digital coupon.
Dunkin’
Veterans and military members can take a break on Nov. 11 at Dunkin’. Vets enjoy a FREE donut of their choice.
Einstein Bros. Bagels
On Nov. 11, vets can sip on a complimentary coffee at Einstein Bros. Bagels. The bagel shop is pouring them a FREE large iced or hot coffee with any purchase on Veterans Day.
Fogo de Chão
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a meaty offer at Fogo de Chão. The restaurant is offering 50% off their entire meal. Plus, each veteran or active duty guest will receive 10% off their meal for up to three additional diners.
Fox & Hound Bar + Grill
Vets and active military members can find a complimentary meal on Veterans Day at Fox & Hound Grill + Bar. The restaurant is offer them a FREE meal ($15 value) on Nov. 11. In addition, vets will receive a $5 bonus card — valid from Nov. 12 to Dec. 31. The restaurant has 10 locations in six states.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Vets can get a full meal at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and not just on Veterans Day. Veterans and active military can stop by on Nov. 11 and pick up a FREE Freddy’s Original Double combo meal card. The card is valid Nov. 11 to 30. No purchase necessary to receive or redeem the card.
Golden Corral
Veterans and active military can satisfy their hunger at Golden Corral. The “endless buffet” restaurant is serving a FREE “Thank You” Meal from 5 p.m. to close.
Gordon Biersch
Active and retired military members can toast on Veterans Day at Gordon Biersch. The restaurant & brewery is offering them 10% off their check.
Great Clips
Veterans and active military can cut their grooming costs on Veterans Day at Great Clips. The popular salon is offering FREE haircuts to vets. Vets not in need of a haircut on Nov. 11 can pick up a card good for a FREE haircut from Nov. 12 to Dec. 10.
Grub
Vets can grab some grub at Grub at no cost. The regional restaurant is serving vets a FREE entrée on Nov. 11. (The Cadillac Waygu is excluded from the offer.) The offer is valid at all locations in Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Texas.
Hamburger Stand
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy an All-American meal at Hamburger Stand on Nov. 11. The fast-food burger chain is offering them a FREE hamburger, regular fries and small Pepsi on Veterans Day.
Hard Rock Cafe
Vets can rock out at Hard Rock Cafe on Nov. 11. The popular rock-and-roll memorabilia restaurant is serving vets one of its signature dishes for FREE on Veterans Day — a Legendary Burger.
Hooters
All active-duty and retired military will receive a FREE entrée from a select menu at Hooters on Veterans Day with the purchase of a beverage. Vets can choose from the following dishes: Buffalo Chicken Salad, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Hooters Burger or 10-Piece Boneless Wings.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Vets and military personnel will want to hop over to Hopdoddy Burger Bar on Nov. 11 for an American favorite. The burger joint is serving a FREE Classic Burger (with or without cheese.) The offer is also available for to-go orders placed by phone.
IHOP
Veterans and active military members can hop over to IHOP on Veterans Day for a fluffy freebie. From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., the diner is serving them a FREE stack of Red, White & Blueberry Pancakes.
Insomnia Cookies
Veterans and active-duty military members can stop by Insomnia Cookies on Veterans Day for a sweet deal. The cookie shop is offering them a FREE 6-pack of cookies with any in-store purchase on Nov. 11.
Joe’s Crab Shack
Vets and active military members can get catch a complimentary meal on Veterans Day at Joe’s Crab Shack. The seafood restaurant is hooking them up with a FREE meal ($15 value) on Nov. 11. In addition, vets will receive a $5 bonus card — valid from Nov. 12 to Dec. 31.
Krispy Kreme
Veterans can enjoy a FREE doughnut of their choice and a small coffee at Krispy Kreme. The offer is available in-shop or at the drive-thru.
Kona Grill
Veterans can leave the grilling to Kona Grill on Veterans Day. The restaurant is offering them 20% off their check on Nov. 11.
LaMar’s Donuts & Coffee
Veterans and active military can enjoy a sweet treat at LaMar’s Donuts & Coffee on Veterans Day. The donut shop is offering them a FREE regular donut and small coffee on Nov. 11. The donut shop has 25 locations in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.
Little Caesars
Veterans and active military get a FREE Lunch Combo at Little Caesars, which includes a 4-slice DEEP!DEEP! Dish pizza and a 20-ounce Pepsi product. The offer is available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
McCormick & Schmick’s
Veterans Day is an opportunity for McCormick & Shmick’s to honor those who have served our country. Veterans of the U.S. military and National Guard, Gold Star parents and Gold Star spouses are invited to enjoy a select entrée at 50% off on Nov. 7.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
All veterans receive their first 6 ounces of frozen yogurt and toppings for FREE on Veterans Day at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. If vets swirl more than 6 ounces, they can just pay the difference.
National parks
Veterans Day, Nov. 11, is the last of the Free Entrance Days at National Parks throughout the country most years. The FREE admission deal is not limited to veterans, but available at all. The National Park Service invites all visitors to remember our veterans by visiting any National Park Service site for FREE on Veterans Day.
O’Charley’s
Veterans and active duty personnel can enjoy a complimentary meal at O’Charley’s on Veterans Day. The restaurant and bar is giving vets a FREE entrée from the following menu: O’Charley’s Famous Chicken Tenders & Fries, Classic Cheeseburger, Honey-Drizzled Southern-Fried Chicken, Peach Chutney Chicken, Chicken Alfredo or Southern-Fried Chicken Tender Salad. Plus, they’ll be serving domestic draft beers (14-oz.) for $3 each.
On The Border
Veterans can spice up Nov. 11 at On The Border. The Mexican restaurant is serving them a FREE Pick 2 Combo meal on Veterans Day.
Outback Steakhouse
Vets are honored every day at Outback Steakhouse. The restaurant’s Heroes Discount is offered all year long — 10% off for all service members, veterans and first responders.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille
Veterans can stake their claim to a meaty freebie at Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille. On Nov. 11, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the steakhouse is offering each U.S. active or retired military a FREE Famous Pork Chop (dinner-sized), when accompanied by a customer purchasing a dinner entrée. The offer is available for dine-in service only. Reservations required.
Pilot Flying J
All active-duty and retired military veterans can fly over to Pilot Flying J on Veterans Day for a meal on the house. The travel center is offering them a FREE $10 meal credit via its app on Nov. 11, only after they have been authenticated through a third-party service.
Red Lobster
For Veterans Day, veterans, active duty military and reservists can sail over to Red Lobster for a dish to start or end their meal on the house. The popular seafood restaurant is offering them a FREE appetizer or dessert from a select menu.
Red Robin
Veterans and active military can take a bite of an American classic at Red Robin. The family-friendly restaurant is offering a FREE Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries from Nov. 1 to 14. Veterans must also be a member of Red Robin Royalty. Military status must have been confirmed by Nov. 1.
Regal Cinemas
Everyone can honor Veterans Day by seeing one of the most critically-acclaimed military movies in recent years, American Sniper, on Nov. 11 at Regal Cinemas. The film shows at select theaters. Get tickets for just $5, as well as $5 combo (small popcorn & small soft drink) — open to all Regal Crown Club members.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
Active and retired military members enjoy 10% off their check at Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery on Nov. 11.
Rodizio Grill
Veterans and active military members can let Rodizio Grill do the grilling on Veterans Day. The restaurant is offering FREE entrée with purchase of one Full Rodizio adult dinner from Nov. 8 to 11.
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Veterans and active military can grab a fork and dig in to a big bowl of gratitude at Romano’s Macaroni Grill on Veterans Day. The Italian restaurant is serving a FREE full-size order of Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti.
Ruby Tuesday
Vets can go green at Ruby Tuesday on Veterans Day. The restaurant is offering them its Endless Garden Bar for FREE on Nov. 11.
Samsung
Vets enjoy an electrifying discount at Samsung — all year long. Thanks to its Military Discount Program, the electronics company provides discounts to active military personnel in all branches of the service, their families and veterans — up to 30% off on phones, tablets, smartwatches and more at Samsung.com.
Shoney’s
Vets can start their day with a buffet on Nov. 11 at Shoney’s. Veterans and active duty military enjoy a FREE all-you-care-to-eat Breakfast Bar at the family-friendly diner on Veterans Day. The offer is only available from opening to 11 a.m. (Most locations open at 8 a.m. However, hours vary by location.)
Smashburger
Vets can take a bite of one of America’s all-time favorite foods at Smashburger on Veterans Day. The burger joint is serving them a FREE Single Classic Burger on Nov. 11.
Sport Clips
Veterans and active duty service members can get a FREE haircut at Sports Clips on Veterans Day.
Starbucks
On Nov. 11, Starbucks is pouring a complimentary cup of coffee for veterans, military service members and their spouses. Qualifying customers can enjoy a FREE Tall hot brewed coffee.
STK Steakhouse
Active military and veterans can enjoy a good steak at a discount on Nov. 11. STK Steakhouse is offering them 20% off their check on Veterans Day.
Taco John’s
Everyone can celebrate veterans at Taco John’s on Nov. 11. The fast-food Mexican restaurant is offering a FREE Small Beef Taco Combo Meal — two Crispy Beef Tacos, a beverage and choice of side. To get the deal, enter promo code VETERAN, under the “More” tab in the Taco John’s app. Taco John’s encourages customers to take a moment to commemorate our nation’s veterans when taking advantage of this special offer.
Target
In honor of Veterans Day, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13, Target is offering all U.S. active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families 10% off two separate purchases. (Some exclusions apply.) To receive the offer, you must first confirm eligibility by registering here. After verification, the exclusive one-Target Circle offer will be available in customer’s account to use in-store or online.
TCBY
Vets and active military can chill out on Veterans Day at TCBY. The frozen yogurt shop is giving them their first 6 ounces of frozen yogurt and toppings for FREE on Nov. 11. If vets swirl more than 6 ounces, they can just pay the difference.
Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse will honor veterans and active military with a special “drive-up” giveaway on Veterans Day. On Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the restaurant will distribute meal vouchers in the parking lot. The voucher is valid is through May 30, 2022 and can be redeemed for a FREE entrée from a select menu. The event is drive-thru only. However, vouchers can be redeemed, when the restaurant is open for dinner.
Torchy’s Tacos
Veterans and active U.S. military members can spice up Veterans Day at Torchy’s Tacos. The fast-casual taco chain is giving vets any taco on the menu for FREE as well as their choice of a fountain drink or iced tea. The offer is available for dine-in and pick-up orders.
True REST Float Spa
On Veterans Day, True REST Float Spa is shutting its doors to the general public and will offer all active duty military member, reservist and veterans a FREE 60-minute float session at one of its 36 locations across the country.
In addition, True REST Float Spa offers U.S. Military Appreciation Day on the 11th day of every month and offers a complimentary 60-minute float to any active-duty military member or veteran.
Twin Peaks
Vets can enjoy a FREE meal from select menu at Twin Peaks on Nov. 11.
Village Inn
Veterans and active military can enjoy breakfast all day at Village Inn on Nov. 11. The popular diner is serving them a FREE 2-2-2- Breakfast on Veterans Day. The complimentary breakfast includes two eggs (any style), two buttermilk pancakes and two bacon strips or sausage links.
Walgreens
Stock up on savings at Walgreens for the Veterans Day weekend. Veterans, military and their families receive 20% off eligible regular price items from Nov. 11 to 14. myWalgreens is membership is required.
Weinerschnitzel
Veterans can enjoy a FREE chili, small fries and small Pepsi at Weinerschnitzel on Nov. 11.
Wendy’s
Vets can start their day with a complimentary meal at Wendy’s. To thank all of those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military, the popular fast-food restaurant is offering them a FREE small breakfast combo — during breakfast hours only. Most locations serve breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
White Castle
All veterans and active duty service members will be treated like kings and queens at White Castle on Veterans Day. The fast-food chain is offering vets a FREE Combo Meal (choose from #1 to #6) or Breakfast Combo Meal on Nov. 11.
Yard House
Vets and active duty military will definitely measure up on Veterans Day at Yard House. The restaurant is serving them a FREE appetizer on Nov. 11.
Ziggi’s Coffee
Military veterans and active-duty military can take a break on Veterans Day at Ziggi’s Coffee. The coffee shop is serving them a FREE 16-oz. beverage of their choice on Nov. 11. The coffee shop has 41 locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Iowa, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming.
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