Last Updated On – 26th November, 2025
Jump to: Family & Casual Restaurants | Fast Food & Coffee Shops | Upscale & Hotel Dining | Houston Restaurants Closed | FAQs
Looking for restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day in Houston for 2025? Whether your turkey plans fell through or you simply don’t want to cook, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular spots that are typically open on Thanksgiving for dine-in or takeout.
Details can change from year to year. Always call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm Thanksgiving 2025 hours, menu, and pricing.
If you’re also planning things to do around the long weekend, don’t forget to check out our guide to the Things to Do in Houston This Weekend.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our post on Stores Open on Thanksgiving Houston 2025, How to Enjoy Thanksgiving Week 2025 in Houston, Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2025, and Thanksgiving Events in Houston 2025!
Family & Casual Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Houston
These family-friendly restaurants are commonly open on Thanksgiving Day in Houston. Most offer limited or special holiday menus.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Cracker Barrel is well-known for its holiday Heat n’ Serve meals and traditional turkey plates, plus the regular menu all day. Many Houston-area locations are typically open on Thanksgiving.
Denny’s
Denny’s restaurants are usually open 24/7, including holidays, and often feature seasonal dishes in addition to the regular menu. It’s a reliable choice if you need a last-minute Thanksgiving bite.
IHOP
IHOP locations around Houston often stay open on Thanksgiving Day with breakfast favorites served all day, plus select holiday items at some stores. Hours can vary by location.
Waffle House
Waffle House is famous for being open 24/7, 365 days a year, making it a dependable stop for Thanksgiving breakfast, lunch, or a late-night meal in Houston.
Pappas Bar-B-Q
Several Pappas Bar-B-Q locations in Houston typically offer smoked meats, classic sides, and sometimes special holiday packs that work great as a non-traditional Thanksgiving spread.
Goode Co. Barbeque
Goode Co. BBQ is a Houston favorite for smoked turkey, brisket, and Texan sides. They often sell holiday meats and pies in advance of Thanksgiving Day as well.
House of Pies
House of Pies locations are typically open on Thanksgiving and are especially popular for grabbing holiday pies and desserts, though many diners enjoy a full meal as well. Expect crowds and lines.
Luby’s
When open on Thanksgiving, Luby’s offers homestyle turkey and dressing plates along with classic sides. Availability and hours may vary by location, so call ahead.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
BJ’s frequently features seasonal specials and family-friendly options. Some Houston locations are open on Thanksgiving with both the standard menu and a few holiday items.
Applebee’s
Many Applebee’s locations are open on Thanksgiving with regular menu items and extended bar service. Hours can differ from store to store in the Houston area.
Fogo de Chão (Houston – Galleria)
Fogo locations run Thanksgiving Day service roughly 11 am–9 pm per the 2025 holiday-hours guide; the Houston Galleria restaurant participates in holiday dining.
Buca di Beppo
National chain listed as open on Thanksgiving 2025; Houston’s Buffalo Speedway location offers family-style Italian and holiday specials, typically midday through evening.
The Capital Grille
Included among chains open on Thanksgiving 2025; commonly offers a special turkey dinner and regular menu during afternoon–evening hours (approx. 11 am–9 pm).
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Listed in the 2025 national guides as open Thanksgiving with a holiday menu; usually afternoon to evening seatings (around 11–9).
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
Also named among 2025 Thanksgiving-open chains, featuring a special turkey/steak menu; typical hours early afternoon–evening (about 11 am–9 pm)
Fast Food & Coffee Shops Open on Thanksgiving Day in Houston
These spots are handy if you’re on the road, grabbing a quick breakfast, or need coffee before a big family gathering. Participation and hours vary by franchise.
Starbucks
Many Starbucks locations keep limited hours on Thanksgiving, especially in busy areas or near highways and hospitals. Check the app for store-specific schedules.
McDonald’s
Most McDonald’s in Houston are franchise-owned, and quite a few typically open on Thanksgiving for breakfast and lunch. Confirm your nearest location’s hours online or in-app.
Whataburger
Whataburger is famous for late-night burgers and often remains open 24/7, even on major holidays. Some locations may adjust hours, so double-check before you go.
Jack in the Box
Many Jack in the Box stores in Houston operate with holiday hours on Thanksgiving, offering breakfast, burgers, and tacos all day or late into the night.
Dunkin’
Select Dunkin’ locations tend to open for limited morning hours on Thanksgiving, perfect if you’re in charge of coffee and donuts for the family.
Krispy Kreme
National coverage notes Krispy Kreme will be open but closing early, often around 2 pm on Thanksgiving 2025.
Popeyes
Listed as open Thanksgiving 2025 with regular fried chicken menu and Cajun-style turkey offerings; hours vary by store.
Arby’s
Appears on multiple 2025 “restaurants open Thanksgiving” lists; stores generally run reduced daytime hours.
Domino’s Pizza
2025 guides say most Domino’s locations are open for carry-out and delivery on Thanksgiving, with hours set by each franchise (often afternoon–late evening).
Shipley Do-Nuts
Numerous locations open Thanksgiving morning for donuts and kolaches.
Upscale & Hotel Thanksgiving Dining in Houston
Want to dress up a bit and enjoy a full-course meal without washing dishes? These upscale restaurants and hotels commonly offer special Thanksgiving menus or buffets.
Brennan’s of Houston
Brennan’s is a beloved Houston institution known for refined Creole fare. On Thanksgiving, they typically offer a multi-course holiday meal that feels special without losing that Southern comfort vibe.
B&B Butchers & Restaurant
B&B Butchers on Washington Ave usually serves a Thanksgiving Day menu featuring steakhouse classics and traditional turkey plates, plus to-go options for at-home dining.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chão often stays open on Thanksgiving with its full churrasco experience and an expanded holiday market table. It’s a great choice if you prefer steak over turkey.
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille commonly offers a special Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu along with a limited regular menu. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for prime times.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris usually serves a classic Thanksgiving menu featuring turkey, traditional sides, and of course, their signature steaks and desserts.
Landry’s Seafood House
For a seafood twist on the holiday, Landry’s Seafood House often opens on Thanksgiving with a mix of Gulf seafood and traditional turkey options at select locations in the Houston area.
Omni Houston Hotel
Hotels like the Omni Houston Hotel frequently host Thanksgiving brunch buffets or prix-fixe dinners in their on-site restaurants, combining a festive atmosphere with a big spread of holiday classics.
B&B Butchers & Restaurant
Listed as open Thanksgiving Day 2025 with an all-day prix-fixe holiday menu (commonly late morning through evening, around 11 am–9 pm). Reservations required, and I recommend making yours early.
The Annie Café & Bar
Offering a Thanksgiving menu on Nov 27, 11 am–9 pm, with special prix-fixe pricing for adults and children.
Bloom & Bee – The Post Oak Hotel
Thanksgiving dining 12–7 pm on Nov 27, 2025, featuring a grazing table, turkey roulade, and holiday desserts.
Nobu Houston (Galleria)
Open Thanksgiving with regular menu; DiningOut lists 5 pm–8:15 pm seatings for Nov 27.
Tavola (Post Oak Blvd.)
Open Thanksgiving Day with a four-course holiday menu; hours shown as 12 pm–8:30 pm.
Ocean Palace (Chinatown)
Serving its regular dim sum menu on Thanksgiving with hours 10 am–5 pm for 2025.
Remi at Hotel Granduca
Hosting a pre-fixe Thanksgiving brunch 10:30 am–2:30 pm on Nov 27, 2025. Reservations required.
SwitcHouse Plates & Pours – Houston CityPlace Marriott
Family-style Thanksgiving feast 11 am–8 pm with traditional turkey and sides.
Juliet Steakhouse
Offering Juliet’s Thanksgiving Feast buffet from 12 pm–9 pm (varied seatings) with carving stations and over 20 classic dishes.
Downtown Aquarium – Houston
2025 coverage highlights a Thanksgiving Buffet plus plated dinner on Thanksgiving Day; buffet typically runs afternoon–early evening (exact seatings listed on site).
Tonight & Tomorrow at La Colombe d’Or
Thanksgiving specials with dining times 10 am–2 pm and 4 pm–10 pm on Nov 27, 2025.
Houston Restaurants Usually Closed on Thanksgiving
Many casual chains and local restaurants close for the holiday so staff can spend time with family. While policies can change, these brands are often closed on Thanksgiving:
- Chick-fil-A
- Chipotle
- Taco Bell
- Chili’s Grill & Bar
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Texas Roadhouse
- Panera Bread
- Red Lobster
- Shake Shack
- Subway (most locations)
Always verify holiday hours online or by phone before heading out.
FAQ – Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Houston 2025
What restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day in Houston?
Options typically include chains like Cracker Barrel, Denny’s, IHOP, and Waffle House, plus local favorites such as Brennan’s, B&B Butchers, and various hotel restaurants. Availability can vary, so always confirm hours directly with the restaurant.
Are there Thanksgiving buffets in Houston?
Yes. Many hotels and a few upscale restaurants offer Thanksgiving brunch buffets or prix-fixe menus. Check with properties like Omni, downtown hotels, and high-end steakhouses for 2025 offerings.
Can I get Thanksgiving meals to go in Houston?
Chains such as Cracker Barrel, Goode Co., and some grocery stores typically offer heat-and-serve holiday meals. Pre-ordering early is strongly recommended.
Do fast-food restaurants stay open on Thanksgiving?
Many fast-food spots, especially along major roads and near hospitals, stay open with reduced hours. Use each chain’s app or website to confirm local schedules.
Planning more fun around the long weekend? Don’t miss our regularly updated list of weekend things to do in Houston.
Bookmark this page – we’ll continue updating as more restaurants confirm their Thanksgiving 2025 plans.
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