On Wednesday, November 11, 2026, restaurants throughout metro Atlanta are saying thank you to veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, and National Guard members with free meals and special offers.

From casual chains with locations across the suburbs to local favorites downtown and in surrounding counties, the options range from breakfast classics to hearty dinners.

Most deals require proof of service (such as a military ID, VA card, veteran-designated driver’s license, or DD-214) and are dine-in only at participating locations. Offers can vary by restaurant and may have limited quantities, so calling ahead is wise.

Veterans Day Free Meals & Food Deals in Metro Atlanta

Applebee’s continues its long-running tradition (now in its 19th year) with a free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu at participating locations. Choices typically include a 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Tenders Platter, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Oriental Chicken Salad, or Three-Cheese Chicken Penne. Guests also often receive a $5 bounce-back card for a future visit. Dine-in only; beverages and tip not included.

Chili’s offers a free entrée from a select menu, including the Oldtimer with Cheese and Fries, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Three-Count Chicken Crispers, or Soup with a Side Salad. Available dine-in at participating metro locations such as those in Decatur, East Atlanta, and College Park.

Golden Corral hosts its annual Military Appreciation Night with a free buffet and beverage for veterans, active-duty members, retirees, Guard, and Reserve. It typically runs from 4 p.m. until close at locations nationwide, including multiple spots in the Atlanta area.

Denny’s provides a free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon (dine-in only).

Texas Roadhouse hands out free meal vouchers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at participating locations (such as those in Buford, Morrow, and Kennesaw). These are redeemable later for select entrées like a 6 oz. sirloin with sides.

Olive Garden offers a complimentary entrée from a special menu (often including options like endless soup or salad paired with pasta) at locations including Perimeter Mall and Cumberland Mall.

Other widely available options include Red Robin (free Red’s Big Tavern Burger with bottomless fries), Outback Steakhouse (free Bloomin’ Onion plus a drink on November 10–11), Starbucks (free tall hot or iced brewed coffee for veterans, service members, and often spouses), and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers (free combo meal card on November 11, redeemable through November 25 at locations in Conyers, Marietta, Duluth, Kennesaw, and others).

Local and Regional Favorites

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar gives veterans and active-duty military a free All-American Burger and a side at locations in Smyrna, Marietta, Roswell, Chamblee, and Decatur.

Mission BBQ offers a free pulled pork “Big Deal” combo at spots in Marietta, Jonesboro, and Lawrenceville.

Sonny’s BBQ provides a free Pork Big Deal (sandwich, side, and drink) for dine-in, takeout, or drive-thru.

Taco Mac is offering a free 6-pack of wings to veterans and active military.

Twin Peaks (Kennesaw and Buckhead) has a free lunch from a select menu (options like cheeseburger and fries, chicken tenders, or boneless wings).

Additional local deals include free small subs at participating Capriotti’s, free pulled pork sandwiches at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, free Chick Meals at Chicken Salad Chick, free gyros at Taziki’s, free breakfast items at Huddle House, Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, and Perkins, and up to two free tacos at Red Pepper Taqueria. MOD Pizza has a buy-one-get-one deal on pizzas or salads, while California Pizza Kitchen offers a free entrée from a select menu.

Some higher-end spots are also participating: Joey D’s Oak Room in Dunwoody and New York Prime in Buckhead are offering half-price entrées for veterans and active-duty members (dine-in only), and The Melting Pot has a complimentary 4-course meal with the purchase of another regular-priced one.

Practical Tips

  • Bring proof of service and arrive prepared for possible waits, especially at popular buffet or breakfast spots.
  • Most offers are for the veteran or service member only (family members pay full price), are dine-in, and exclude beverages, tips, and substitutions.
  • Confirm participation and hours with the specific location, as not every restaurant in a chain may participate and details can change.
  • Check the Department of Veterans Affairs site or local news roundups for the most current national and regional lists.

Metro Atlanta’s restaurants, from Gwinnett and Cobb to Fulton, DeKalb, and beyond, are joining communities nationwide in recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who have worn the uniform. Whether it’s a free breakfast, a classic burger, or a full buffet, these meals offer a simple but meaningful way to say thank you on Veterans Day.