Military & Veteran Restaurant Discounts Guide

Military and veteran discounts are some of the most widely offered restaurant discounts, but they come in two very different forms: everyday discounts you can use any time, and one-day Veterans Day freebies. The rules for each are different, so it helps to know which one you're looking at.

Everyday discounts

Many chains offer a standing discount, usually 10% to 15%, to service members and veterans. Commonly reported examples in 2026, from Chowhound's roundup of veteran discounts, include:

• Texas Roadhouse: 10% year-round for military, including veterans.
• Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill: a 10% "Heroes Discount" for veterans, active-duty members, and first responders.
• Applebee's: 10% for active-duty members and veterans at many locations.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: 10% at participating locations.
• LongHorn Steakhouse: 10% to 15%, set by each restaurant.
• Dave & Buster's: 15%.
• Texas de Brazil: 10% for veterans, dine-in only, with limits on holidays and party size.

Two details matter. Many of these are set by the local franchise, so the percentage can change from one location to the next. And some locations limit the discount to active-duty members while others include veterans and retirees. Ask which applies before you assume.

Veterans Day

Veterans Day, November 11, is when restaurants make their biggest offers: a free entrée, breakfast, or dessert for anyone who served. Chains that have offered free meals in recent years include Applebee's, Chili's, Denny's, IHOP, Red Lobster, Red Robin, and Golden Corral, which holds a separate Military Appreciation Night.

A few things to know:

• Terms are announced each year, usually in late October or early November, and they change. Last year's offer isn't a promise.
• Most are dine-in only, often from a limited menu with no substitutions.
• Expect crowds. Popular chains fill up at lunch and dinner, so going early or mid-afternoon helps.
• Offers usually cover only the service member's meal, not the rest of the table.

What counts as proof

Accepted proof varies by chain. Common options include a military ID or CAC, a retiree or VA ID card, a DD-214, a veterans organization card, or wearing your uniform. For app and online orders, some chains verify through services like ID.me or WeSalute. Wendy's, for example, has accepted a WeSalute+ card instead of a military ID.

If you're using a DD-214, bring a copy rather than the original.

Avoid fake discount offers

Because verification services like ID.me are so widely used, scammers imitate them. Only enter military or veteran details in a restaurant's official app or website, never through a link in an unsolicited text or email promising a special discount.

Before you go

For everyday discounts, ask your local restaurant, since policies are set locally. For Veterans Day, check the chain's own site or app in early November for that year's terms. Deals running near you right now are on FindMeCheapFood.

Discounts listed are commonly reported terms as of 2026. Veterans Day offers are announced each year and vary by location.