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Lifestyle

10 Chains Open on Christmas Day, Because We Know You Hate Cooking

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at U Mich chapter.

If you don’t celebrate Christmas, or just don’t feel like cooking for Christmas this year, going out to eat on December 25th is easier than you might think. More and more fast food restaurants are keeping their doors open for Christmas customers and are serving up seasonal holiday dishes. These 10 chains open on Christmas have you covered from your morning holiday coffee all the way to your classic Christmas dinner. 

Denny’s

Practically all Denny’s are open 24/7, and they stay true to their word on Christmas Day.  While they’re known for their Grand Slam’s, don’t miss out on their holiday pancakes, such as their White Chocolate Raspberry Pancakes. Or try the Jr. Frosty Pancakes, because you’re never too old to decorate your own snowman for breakfast. 

IHOP

All IHOPs are open 24/7, including on Christmas Day. Rejoice with their red velvet pancakes, which are topped with cream cheese icing and powdered sugar. Or dive into their Fluffy The Snowman Pancakes, complete with a bacon scarf and strawberry nose. 

Waffle House

Waffle House is ready to cater to your 24/7 waffle cravings this Christmas. Enjoy their pecan waffles for a true taste of the holidays. 

McDonald’s

You probably didn’t even begin to worry about McDonald’s being one of the restaurants that are open on Christmas. But never fear, because the corporate-owned McDonald’s will be open on Christmas Day to serve you your favorite drinks and burgers (call ahead to your local McDonald’s to double check, because the franchise locations won’t be open). Pick up their Peppermint Mocha for a warm start to your day. To make the most of your Christmas visit, try out one of these McDonald’s secret menu items. 

Panda Express

Most Panda Express establishments are open from 11 am to 10 pm on Christmas Day, but call ahead before heading out since each one is independently owned. You can’t go wrong with their classic orange chicken for lunch or dinner. If meat isn’t your thing, try one of the many Panda Express vegetarian menu items instead. 

Boston Market

Boston Market is that place you go to if you’re craving Thanksgiving dinner in the middle of March. Luckily, they’re one of the chains open on Christmas as well. Whether you order their rotisserie turkey bowl, cinnamon apples, creamed spinach, or mashed potatoes, you simply can’t go wrong. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on their mac and cheese made with cheddar cheese and rotini pasta. Most establishments are open on Christmas Day from 9 am to 10 pm. 

Starbucks

Starbucks is known for their seasonal holiday beverages and cute red cups. Pair your snowman cookie with their new Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, which is topped with whipped cream and candied cranberry sugar. 

Dunkin’ Donuts

Not all Dunkin’ Donuts establishments will be open on Christmas Day, but it’s worth calling ahead for their Candy Cane Crunch donuts if your nearest Dunkin’ won’t be open. Filled with light, vanilla buttercream and topped with vanilla frosting and crushed candy canes, these donuts are the perfect start to your Christmas morning. 

Buca di Beppo

Satisfy your pasta craving with some delicious dishes from Buca di Beppo. All establishments are open from 11 am to 10 pm, and it is highly recommended that you make reservations ahead of time. Try their baked rigatoni or stuffed shells for a warm and cheesy pasta dinner. 

Huddle House

Don’t miss out on the stuffed hash browns at Huddle House this holiday season. Made with breakfast meats, scrambled eggs, and American cheese, this is the quintessential brunch medley. Huddle House establishments are usually open 24/7 and will also be open for Christmas. 

Whether you’re in need of a festive pancake breakfast or are just craving some orange chicken on December 25th, these chains open on Christmas have you covered from morning until night. So put away the cook books and stop pinning recipes on Pinterest that you know you won’t end up making on Christmas Day. Relax this holiday season knowing that a hassle-free Christmas dinner is right around the corner. 

Chicago-based foodie who can't eat a meal without photographing it first.