In my opinion, food is such an under-recognized aspect of the New Year’s season. Every New Year’s Eve, I always celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of the next by ordering some of my favorite dishes and spending the evening with my partner. We throw on our PJs, veg out, reflect upon the last 365 days, and share what we hope for the next 365 days. Plus, I know plenty of people who love to go out for a celebratory meal, or even try to catch some late-night eats after the clock strikes midnight. I mean, regardless if you’re planning on clubbing until you can’t feel your feet or staying in with some good friends, a girl’s gotta eat!Â
With New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day being so busy, not everyone has time to cook. So, if you’ve been wondering what restaurants are open for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2026, then wonder no more! Here’s a list of some of the most popular chain restaurants across the United States that are expected to be open on both holidays. (Keep in mind, it’s always best practice to double-check with your specific location to see if their hours of operation differ.)
Applebee’s
Open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day? That’s my kind of place.
Buffalo Wild Wings
If you have a hankering for wings, Buffalo Wild Wings is the place to be for New Year’s.
Chick-fil-A
Neither NYE or New Year’s Day falls on Sunday this year, so you’re safe to grab your chicken sandwich!
Chili’s
I want my baby back ribs for New Year’s!
Cinnabon
IMO, Cinnamon is a certified hangover cure — the perfect reward after a good New Year’s party.
Cracker Barrel
In case you want something close to home cooking, Cracker Barrel is going to be open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Denny’s
I mean, what part of 24/7 are you not understanding?
Domino’s
Pizza was practically made for New Year’s.
Dunkin’
America runs on Dunkin’, and you can too after your night out!
IHOP
Pancakes for dinner! Pancakes for breakfast! Pancakes for all!
KFC
Salute the Colonel for being open for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
McDonald’s
I can get New Year’s Eve dinner and New Year’s Day breakfast? I’m lovin’ it.
Olive Garden
If your New Year’s resolution is to travel, you can get a taste of it at your nearby Italian chain.
Panda Express
Chinese food on Christmas is one thing, but Chinese food on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day is next-level.
Panera Bread
For New Year’s Eve and Day, your You Pick Two is waiting for you!
Pizza Hut
Delivery or carryout? Doesn’t matter — the Hut will be open!
Sonic
America’s drive-in will remain open for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Starbucks
Starbucks will be open to ensure fans can be caffeinated and ready to go.
Taco Bell
This New Year’s season, have fun, celebrate, and live más!
Waffle House
If Waffle House is open during hurricanes and tornadoes, you can be it’ll be open for New Year’s!