Veterans, you are the backbone of this great country, which certainly wouldn't be the same without you. While you are deserving of thanks every day, we set aside Veterans Day as a holiday to recognize your service and sacrifice.
There are many businesses offering discounts on this special day and below is a list of some restaurants offering free meals for service members past and present. Please note that offers will vary and the conditions necessary to qualify should be confirmed when making reservations or before ordering your food.
Veterans Day Free Meals FAQs
Q1. Do family members get free meals?
Answer: In most cases, only the veteran is entitled to a free meal. However, some restaurants may offer discounts to family members. Please check with each establishment for its guidelines.
Q2. Do I have to be discharged?
Answer: Not typically. Most free meal offers for Veterans Day in San Diego are for active and inactive members. Each restaurant will be able to answer that question for you.
Q3. Do I need proof of service to get a free meal?
Answer: Each restaurant will have its own requirements for veterans to prove their status. Some may require a full Military ID or U.S. Uniform Services Retired ID Card while others will accept your Leave and Earning Statement or even a picture of you in uniform. Be sure to verify what is acceptable wherever you decide to dine.
Q4. Are meals only available on November 11?
Answer: Most restaurants that offer free meals for service members on Veterans Day only offer them on the actual day. This year that is Saturday, November 11. Some may extend the offer for the entire weekend.
Q5. Should I tip my server for my free Veterans Day meal?
Answer: The short answer here is yes, you should tip your server based on the total check as if you had paid full price as these men and women rely on tip money to pay their expenses.
Veterans Day Free Meals Near Me in San Diego
Buffalo Wild Wings:
Veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a complimentary order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on November 11th, simply by presenting a valid ID. This offer is exclusively available for dine-in, including Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations, where you can walk in or place an order at the counter.
California Fish Grill:
On November 11th, veterans and active-duty military personnel can savor a free taco along with a soft drink at California Fish Grill.
Chili's:
Veterans and active-duty service members can indulge in a free meal from a select menu on November 11th when they provide proof of service. Please note that this offer is valid for in-restaurant dining only.
Claim Jumper:
Veterans and active-duty military members are invited to enjoy a complimentary dine-in meal from a special menu on November 13th at Claim Jumper.
Dave & Buster's:
Veterans can relish a free entree (up to $20) and receive a complimentary $10 Power Card when they present a valid veterans ID card on November 11th at Dave & Buster's.
Dunkin':
Veterans and active-duty military personnel can treat themselves to a free donut of their choice on November 11th at participating Dunkin' locations. This offer is available exclusively in-store.
Hooters:
Active-duty military and veterans can savor a free entrée from the Hooters Veterans Day Menu on November 11th, provided they purchase a beverage at participating locations. Please note that this offer is available for dine-in only.
O'Charley's:
O’Charley’s is offering veterans and active-duty military a special free lunch menu on November 10th and 11th. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each of these days, veterans can choose one free entrée from the special menu and may also receive a complimentary slice of pie during dinner. Both offers are valid for dine-in only.
Peet's Coffee:
Active-duty military and veterans can enjoy a free small drip coffee or tea on November 11th at participating Peet's Coffee locations when they provide proof of service.
Red Lobster:
Veterans, active-duty military, and reservists can obtain free printed meal vouchers for Veterans Shrimp & Chips from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm local time on November 11th. To redeem, guests need to show a valid military ID or proof of service. These vouchers can be used beginning November 13th through December 10th for dine-in only.
Red Robin:
Veterans and active-duty military members can relish a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger on November 11th with a valid ID. This offer is for dine-in only and is not applicable to online or to-go orders. Additionally, the free meal includes unlimited steak fries.
Sizzler:
Participating Sizzler locations are offering a free lunch to active-duty military and veterans until 4:00 pm on November 11th. You can choose between a free Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, Malibu Chicken, or 6 oz Tri-Tip Steak entree.
Starbucks:
Starbucks is showing appreciation for veterans, military service members, and military spouses by offering a free tall (12-ounce) hot or cold brewed coffee on November 11th at participating U.S. stores.
