Restaurants

35 Restaurants Open on Easter Day in 2025

Published on February 20, 2025 | 0 Comments
A baked ham with orange slices

Wondering which restaurants are open on Easter this year? You might be surprised by a few of the places you could grab an Easter meal. 

For some, Easter brunch at Grandma’s house is a highlight of the year. But for others, a home-cooked meal isn’t in the cards, and trying to find a restaurant that’s open on Easter can sometimes be a struggle.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 35 restaurants that are open on Easter, most of which have locations nationwide. So if you’d rather not cook this year, fear not — there’s a place on this list for you!

 

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What Restaurants Are Open on Easter Day? 

You probably won't be surprised to find that many of your favorite fast food restaurants are open on Easter, but fast food joints aren't your only option. Lots of the most popular sit-down chains will also be open. While most of these places will serve the normal menu on Easter Sunday, some offer holiday specials that you can eat in or take to go.

Before you make plans, though, it’s important to note that some chain restaurants open on Easter won’t have the same Easter hours at every location. The location closest to you may not be open either. Holiday hours can be all over the map, so make sure to check them for your preferred location, and make a reservation if need be to start the Easter food tradition of dining out. 

An Easter dinner plate with ham, mashed potatoes, green beans and a dinner roll
via Canva

35 Popular Restaurants That Are Open on Easter Day

1. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

One of the classiest restaurants open on Easter is Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. The well-loved nationwide steakhouse chain offers extended hours and special Easter menus for lunch and dinner.

Even better? All locations will remain open on Easter, so you can head to your nearest one without fear of it being closed. That said, this is one restaurant where you’ll probably want a reservation.

Steak, lobster, grilled lemon and butter sauce on a plate
via Ruth's Chris Steakhouse

2. Domino’s

Sometimes you just need a hot slice of pizza, and for that, Domino’s is one of the best restaurants open on Easter. You’ll be able to get dine-in (if offered at your nearest location) or to-go pies from this popular pizza chain. So whether you’re craving pizza or you just need a reliable meal to feed a crowd of relatives ASAP, Domino’s delivers.

3. The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory is already one of America’s favorite brunch spots, so is it any surprise this chain of restaurants is open on Easter? This year, you’ll be able to reserve a table at The Cheesecake Factory for brunch or dinner. No matter what meal you go for, remember to get a slice of cheesecake to celebrate the holiday!

A slice of cheesecake with glazed strawberries
via The Cheesecake Factory

4. Applebee’s

Another crowd-pleasing restaurant open on Easter is Applebee’s, which will be serving its beloved everyday menu as usual. But a word of warning: though the chain promises that its many restaurants will be open on Easter, franchises are independently owned. Therefore, hours may vary and certain locations may not open at all on Easter Sunday. Be sure to call your local Applebee’s about Easter hours before you plan a visit.

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5. Maggiano’s Little Italy

More than just another restaurant open on Easter, Maggiano’s Little Italy goes all out for the holiday. In previous years, they’ve served special family-style menus for brunch and dinner.

Some locations have even hosted events like mixology classes and a brunch featuring photo ops with the Easter bunny! Although the chain has yet to announce its festivities for this year, they’ll be open for business — so keep your eye out for updates.

Maggiano's Little Italy is one of the Italian restaurants open on Easter
via Maggiano’s Little Italy

6. Wendy’s

Depending on where you live, it may be a little frosty for a Frosty in April. But should that stop you from picking up some Wendy’s for Easter lunch? Since Wendy’s is one of the many restaurants open on Easter this year, that would be a “no.” Call your local Wendy’s franchise to confirm hours and head in for whatever fast food treat you fancy. 

7. P.F. Chang’s

You’ve heard of Chinese food on Christmas, so why not Easter? At P.F. Chang’s, you may even get a discount on your Easter meal — a perk that has been offered in past years to diners who showed them a promotional Facebook post (so check P.F. Chang's socials before you head in).

It might be an unexpected one, but dining at this popular Chinese restaurant chain offers something unique for those looking to vary up their Easter meal. In fact, the chain is sometimes so popular on Easter that booking ahead is recommended. 

Black bowls with fried rice next to cocktails
via P.F. Chang's

8. Chili’s 

Nothing says Easter like bottomless margaritas, right? Well, maybe not, but that’s certainly an option at Chili’s, yet another popular sit-down chain restaurant open on Easter. Come in at the usual opening hours for the whole range of lunch and dinner options from the regular menu.

9. Romano’s Macaroni Grill

If you’re looking for Italian restaurants open on Easter, you’ll have a few to pick from, including Romano’s Macaroni Grill. Like many favorite chains, this spot offers family-style meals you can take away for the holiday.

Those craving a non-traditional Easter dinner will love the hassle-free, take-to-go Italian options. In previous years, an Easter brunch has also been available, so check the website for information on the return of this brunch menu if you’re looking for a delicious meal earlier in the day.

Romano's Macaroni Grill is one of many restaurants open on Easter
via Romano's Macaroni Grill

10. Ruby Tuesday

Make it a Ruby Sunday at this restaurant open on Easter. While, like many other chains, Ruby Tuesday execs haven’t announced any special Easter menu yet, the chain is open on Easter this year and known for its special holiday menus, so be on the lookout for announcements.

Even if a special menu isn’t on offer, you’ll get to enjoy the chain’s classic dishes, including steaks, ribs and loaded baked potatoes, plus sweet treats like cheesecake for dessert. As always, call ahead to be sure your location isn’t an exception to the chain’s typical Easter opening hours. 

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11. Sonic Drive-In

If you need a quick pick-me-up before Easter events, how about some tater tots? Many fast food restaurants are open on Easter and Sonic is no exception. All locations will be up and running for the duration of normal business hours, serving up all the popular items, from tots to shakes and burgers.

A burger with bacon, cripsy onions, sauce and cheese
via Sonic Drive-In

12. Dunkin’ Donuts 

America runs on it, and Easter is no exception as most years see this restaurant open on Easter. Dunkin’ Donuts may even have special holiday donuts and drinks. While it’s not a place to bring the family for dinner, coffee lovers and those with a sweet tooth will be happy to know that they can get their usual coffee-donut fix this Easter, no matter what other events they have going on. 

13. Denny’s 

Your favorite 24-hour restaurant is open this Easter, so if you want your brunch at 4 a.m. in the morning or your dinner at midnight, you’re in luck!

There’s no doubt a Denny’s near you will be offering the full range of its usual menu for an Easter meal at any time of day, but be careful: many Denny’s locations are set to close down this year for the holiday, so make sure yours isn’t one of them before making any plans.

A selection of breakfast dishes on a table
via Denny's

14. McDonald’s

The Golden Arches are here to serve your Easter needs, whether you want a brunch of hash browns and Egg McMuffins or a sumptuous Big Mac dinner. It may not be the traditional Easter feast, but this restaurant is open on Easter with a menu that’s reliable, beloved and always there for you in a pinch — and your kids will definitely thank you!

15. Olive Garden

Maybe you can’t spend Easter in a Tuscan villa this year, but you can have unlimited breadsticks. Olive Garden restaurants are open on Easter, and though they haven’t announced any special holiday plans, keep in mind that Olive Garden offers to-go meal kits year-round. This allows you to eat in (for those bottomless breadsticks) or pick a meal up to take home. 

Olive Garden is a popular chain restaurant open on Easter
via Olive Garden

16. Jimmy John’s

Easter ham is ubiquitous this time of year, but how about an Easter ham sandwich? Head to your nearest Jimmy John’s to make that happen. Call ahead to be sure that your nearest restaurant is open on Easter, but most locations will be, serving up the full regular menu.

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17. KFC

KFC is no stranger to the holiday spirit, even becoming a cult-favorite Christmas dinner in Japan. So it’s no surprise that outposts of the restaurant are open on Easter. KFC’s Easter menu is the same as every other day of the year, so celebrate with fried chicken and all your favorite sides, from biscuits and gravy to mashed potatoes and coleslaw. 

Fried chicken, fries, dip and coleslaw
via KFC

18. Bob Evans

Think Easter meals and you’ll probably think first of ham. This popular chain for hearty meat-and-potatoes fare keeps its restaurants open on Easter to serve just that.

Not only is Bob Evans open for dine-in on Easter, but you can pick up a whole prepared Easter feast to take home for brunch or dinner. If you don’t want to cook but would still like to eat at home, flag this one for your Easter dinner needs. 

19. Panera Bread

If a big Easter shindig is too much for you this year but you’re not keen on classic fast food either, Panera Bread might be your best bet among the restaurants open on Easter. It’s a perfect balance of priorities: quick and casual but much less spur-of-the-moment than a drive-through burger. 

There are also lots of healthy items at Panera, allowing you to grab a salad or healthy sandwich between Easter events. Just be sure to call your local branch to confirm its hours before stopping by on Easter. 

A salad, bag of chips and orange drink on a picnic rug
via Panera Bread

20. Buffalo Wild Wings

Eggs, candy and…chicken wings? That’s right: Buffalo Wild Wings is open on Easter. If your idea of a great holiday involves watching sports on the big screen and copious amounts of hot chicken, you’re in luck.

21. Waffle House

Very few things can keep a Waffle House from opening for business, and Easter Sunday isn’t one of them. If you’re in Waffle House country, this is one restaurant that will be open Easter without fail, allowing you to enjoy all the regular menu favorites, including a vast array of waffles. Happy Easter brunching! 

Waffle House is a breakfast restaurant open on Easter
via Waffle House

22. Red Robin

Though they don’t go all-out for the holiday with special menu items or promotions, Red Robin restaurants are reliably open on Easter. In a pinch, it’ll satisfy your burger cravings — “yum” indeed. 

23. Taco Bell

If your Easter preferences aren’t very high-end but you still want something filling and tasty, America’s favorite Mexican restaurant chain is open for business as usual on Easter.

Whether you want to stop by for a light lunch or pick up something to satisfy a late-night craving, this restaurant is open on Easter for whatever you’re after. So have a Baja Blast and sell the family on an Easter brunch of Taco Bell Breakfast Crunchwraps. 

A soft shell taco next to a blue drink
via Taco Bell

24. Five Guys

Aside from serving some of the best fast food burgers in America, Five Guys also boasts highly consistent holiday openings. This includes Easter, so if your kids are begging you for burgers in lieu of other Easter dinner plans, Five Guys has your back. That said, you may want to check with your local franchise to make sure that it’s sticking to its usual operating hours. 

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25. Benihana

Benihana is a crowd-pleaser at birthdays, anniversaries and all manner of classy occasions — so why not go with tabletop hibachi grilling for your Easter dinner? Whether you’re craving sushi, sashimi or grilled meat, Benihana restaurants are open on Easter to serve what you’re after.

Most locations can accommodate large groups as well. How’s that for an Easter party idea? Do note that if Benihana is your Easter pick, it’s smart to make a reservation as far in advance as possible. 

Benihana is one of the Asian restaurants open on Easter
via Benihana

26. Outback Steakhouse

Anyone who’s ever craved a bloomin’ onion on Easter morning is in luck because most franchises of this restaurant are open on Easter. Along with this popular appetizer, you’ll also be able to get your steak and sweets fixes with an Easter meal at Outback Steakhouse; so really, what’s missing? Individual franchises might have slightly different hours, so it’s a good idea to call your nearest location to check on the Easter schedule. 

27. Fogo de Chão

All-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue in a swanky setting makes for a pretty great Easter memory, and at Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão, your whole family can enjoy as much meat as they can eat.

This is easily one of the more upscale restaurants open on Easter, so you’ll definitely want to call ahead and make a reservation, and remember to dress up a little for the occasion.  

Meat being carved on a board
via Fogo de Chão

28. Dairy Queen

Another great restaurant open on Easter day for a quick pick-me-up is Dairy Queen. While not a top pick for your full Easter dinner, you’ll be able to grab an ice cream treat, burger or chicken strips to tide you or the kids over between fun Easter activities. The chain sometimes has special Easter Blizzard flavors as well. 

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29. Honey Baked Ham

This has to be the spot for Easter ham. Even those who are eating at home will likely stop by a Honey Baked store to pick theirs up. But it isn’t just take-and-bake ham offered by this restaurant that's open on Easter.

You can also pick up a whole prepared meal kit to take home with you which is complete with a range of delicious sides. If you’re itching to say “yes” to a meal at home but “no” to a home-cooked meal, Honey Baked Ham is the spot for you.

Honey Baked Ham is a great restaurant open on Easter for take-away food
via Honey Baked Ham

30. Texas Roadhouse

If Easter Sunday means prime rib to you, look no further than Texas Roadhouse. While a special menu hasn’t been announced yet, this chain of restaurants is open on Easter serving the regular menu.

Regarding holiday menus, past years have seen the chain offer an Easter-special prime rib feast. But even if execs don’t decide to bring it back this year, you’ll still be able to get your red meat fix — not to mention those irresistible rolls.

It’s a great sit-down choice for a bigger group looking for a good, solid meal without the fuss. Just remember to call ahead to confirm holiday hours. 

31. California Pizza Kitchen 

It might surprise you that this quasi-Italian sit-down chain has offered Easter meal kits in the past, but it sure has. California Pizza Kitchen restaurants are open on Easter for dine-in, but you also have the option of taking your food to go. 

Previous options have included salmon and chicken piccata. While nothing has been confirmed for this year yet, there should be a holiday special, so keep checking the website. But even if an Easter meal isn’t on offer, many of the chain’s locations will be open for regular business hours, serving the full regular menu. 

Pizzas and wine glasses on a wooden table
via California Pizza Kitchen

32. IHOP

Ah, IHOP. If you’ve ever found yourself without a place to eat on a major holiday, you may well have found yourself at an IHOP. It’s one of the most reliable choices when you’re looking for restaurants that are open when everything else is closed, so of course we can’t leave it off a list of restaurants open on Easter. Whether you go for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner — it doesn’t matter: your local IHOP is a safe bet for a last-minute Easter meal. 

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33. Red Lobster

An initial word of warning: individual Red Lobster locations may be doing different things on Easter, so it’s especially important to check with your nearest restaurant to make sure it’ll be open. That said, most franchises will be, so if you would rather celebrate Easter with lobster than ham, you know where to head to. 

Steak, lobster and baked potato on a plate
via Red Lobster

34. Cracker Barrel

This Southern favorite goes all out for Easter, with special menus offered for both dining in and taking home — not to mention a huge array of seasonal products in the popular restaurant stores. 

Not only is this chain of restaurants open on Easter, but Cracker Barrel also celebrates with aplomb. Special holiday options may include prime rib, French toast bake and a full ham dinner. It’s another great pick for those who would like to stay home but not spend all day in the kitchen. 

35. Burger King

Finally, this one is for anybody who’s ever gotten sick and tired of ham and started to wonder why they couldn’t just go for a burger. Fancy a Whopper? You’ve got it, with this restaurant open on Easter. No special items have been announced, but if you’re craving anything off the regular menu, it’ll be well within your grasp this Easter.

Burger King is one of many fast food restaurants open on Easter
via Burger King

If you don’t plan on cooking this Easter, you may have more choices than you think. From drive-through fast food spots to casual sit-down eateries and even fancy steakhouse dinners, there are more than a handful of beloved restaurants open on Easter nationwide. 

Though it might feel like nothing is open on that last-minute drive through town, do a little digging and there’s something to suit every taste! 

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.