On November 11, 2025, Applebee’s will continue its tradition of honoring veterans and active military personnel by offering them a complimentary full-size entrée from a specially curated Veterans Day menu. The meal is restricted to dine-in only at participating locations across the country. The menu includes the chain’s fan favorites: the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Oriental Chicken Salad, and Fiesta Lime Chicken, among others.
Guests must present a military ID, VA card, or discharge papers to validate proof of military service and claim the meal. The offer applies to active duty, veterans, reserves, and National Guard personnel. Some participating locations even extend the offering to Gold Star families.
While most Applebee’s locations will stick to their regular operating hours, a handful of them may open earlier to better serve the expected large turnout. Beyond the complimentary meal, veterans are also provided with discounted seasonal desserts, special beverages, gift cards, and specially discounted meals throughout November.The purpose of Applebee’s Veterans Day program is to extend community appreciation to veterans alongside a complimentary meal.
Applebees Veterans Day
Tuesday, November 11th, 2025: Veterans and active-duty military personnel will receive a free meal from a pre-selected menu, which may be ordered as a full-size entrée at participating Applebee’s locations.
Key highlights:
- Free Veterans Day Meal (select menu, dine-in only)
- Discount is eligible for active duty military, veterans, reserves or the National Guard.
- A valid form of proof of military service (military ID, VA card, or discharge papers) is mandatory.
- Most U.S. locations are available during normal business hours.
Availability may vary by state, and Gold Star families are included at some Applebee’s locations.
Applebees Veterans Day Menu
Applebee’s Veterans Day menu includes some of the most popular entrées from their regular menu, offered free of charge to eligible guests. Choices vary slightly by location, but here’s what you can typically expect:
Menu Item | Description | Regular Price | Special on Veterans Day |
---|---|---|---|
Classic Bacon Cheeseburger | Juicy all-beef patty topped with Applewood-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. | $12.99 | Free |
6 oz. Top Sirloin | Tender USDA Choice sirloin steak, served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. | $16.99 | Free |
Oriental Chicken Salad | Crispy breaded chicken tenders over fresh greens with oriental vinaigrette and crunchy noodles. | $13.99 | Free |
Three-Cheese Chicken Penne | Grilled chicken over penne pasta with creamy three-cheese Alfredo sauce, topped with Parmesan and bruschetta tomatoes. | $14.99 | Free |
Chicken Tenders Platter | Crispy breaded chicken tenders served with fries and coleslaw. | $12.49 | Free |
Double Crunch Shrimp | Golden-fried shrimp served with fries, cocktail sauce, and coleslaw. | $14.99 | Free |
Fiesta Lime Chicken | Grilled chicken breast topped with zesty lime sauce, Mexi-ranch, and melted cheese, served with Spanish rice and tortilla strips. | $14.49 | Free |
Applebees Veterans Day Hours
Some Applebee’s generally operate using normal business hours, but since some locations are franchised and rules may change either randomly or seasonally many Applebees location might be open on Veterans Day so customer could show up at an Applebees restaurant close by at opening time with little chance of complete disappointment.
- Mon — Thurs: 11 AM — 11 PM
- Fri — Sat: 11am–12am
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Some may open sooner or with special hours for Veterans Day to handle the increased foot traffic. Although some restaurants are offering the deal in Canada, those in Quebec can’t buy their Cinnabon Delights for a buck. Check with your nearest location or online at their website.
Applebees Veterans Free meal
It is an easy process to receive the complimentary meal, though several steps are required
Check Availability – Search “Applebee’s Veterans Day near me” to find out if your local Applebee’s is participating.
Military ID– DD214*- Proof of VA-issued card (Information printed on the front and back)- Driver license/State-Issued identification Card (if the applicant address matches VA record)
- U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card
- Uniformed Services Retired ID Card U.S. Format
- Most recent Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
- Card From Veterans Organization (e.g., American Legion, VFW)
- DD214 or other discharge paperwork
Dine-in only – the Veterans Day free meal offer is available for dine-in, not takeout or delivery.
Select your favourite meal — Guests should be able to choose one popular meal off special Veterans Menu display.
Applebees Veterans Discount
Besides the complimentary meal, Applebee’s has other offerings such as:
- Vets and their accompanying guests may order desserts at a discounted price.
- Specials on beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
- Special offers on gift cards for purchasing them during holidays.
- For the month of November, veterans can enjoy some seasonal dishes at a lower price.
In addition to the above, some restaurants provide a complimentary $5 voucher towards future visits along with the Veterans Day meal.
FAQs
Q1: Can family or friends take advantage of Applebee’s Veterans Day deal?
A: Family and friends cannot benefit from the complimentary Veterans Day meal. It’s exclusively for veterans and active-duty military personnel.
Q2: Is a military uniform needed for the free meal?
A: No, military attire is not needed. Guests simply require to present appropriate military documents like an ID, VA card, or discharge papers to receive the benefits.
Q3: Is takeout or delivery an option for the Veterans Day meal?
A: Dine-in only to partake the free meal is the only option provided. This is meant to build a sense of appreciation and community that the program aims to serve.
Q4: Is there a military discount at Applebee’s during the year?
A: Most Applebee’s provide a military discount which ranges from 10% to 15% off for the members with a military ID. This is often provided year round. It is always good to verify with the particular branch, as policies may differ.
Q5: Is it possible to mix the free Veterans Day meal with other promotions?
A: No, it is not permitted as the free complimentary Veterans Day meal is offered unconditionally as an appreciation. This cannot be used along with other promotions or discounts.