Is Applebee’s Open on Thanksgiving 2025?
Thanksgiving is a busy holiday, and not everyone wants to cook at home after traveling or hosting family. Many people search for a warm dine-in option, and Applebee’s is one of the restaurants that often appears in holiday plans. Knowing whether Applebee’s is open on Thanksgiving 2025 helps you plan your meal easily and avoid last-minute changes.
This guide explains Thanksgiving hours, what to expect at Applebee’s on the holiday, common timing patterns, holiday menu highlights and the best ways to check your local schedule. It also includes helpful tips to make your Thanksgiving visit smooth and enjoyable.
Is Applebee’s Open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, some Applebee’s locations are open on Thanksgiving Day 2025.
However, Applebee’s follows a franchise-based schedule, which means holiday hours are not the same everywhere. Many restaurants open with shortened lunch and dinner hours, while other locations may remain fully closed depending on staffing, local demand and ownership decisions.
Applebee’s stores inside malls or shopping plazas often open later or close earlier, while locations in busy travel areas are more likely to serve guests on Thanksgiving.
Applebee’s Thanksgiving Hours 2025
Here is the general pattern most locations follow:
| Day | Open Status | Typical Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving Day | Some locations open | 12 PM – 8 PM (varies) | Shortened hours, limited menu |
| Thanksgiving Eve | Open | Regular hours | Busy evening traffic |
| Black Friday | Open | Regular hours | Normal menu resumes |
Hours differ by city, so checking your exact local store is always recommended.
Applebee’s Thanksgiving Hours in Major US Cities
Applebee’s holiday hours vary by city because each location follows its own franchise schedule. Here is a helpful look at common Thanksgiving timing patterns across major US regions. Actual hours may differ by neighborhood, so checking your exact store is always best.
| City | Typical Opening Time | Typical Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | 12 PM | 7 PM |
| Los Angeles | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| Chicago | 12 PM | 7 PM |
| Houston | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| Phoenix | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| Philadelphia | 1 PM | 7 PM |
| San Antonio | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| San Diego | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| Dallas | 12 PM | 8 PM |
| San Jose | 12 PM | 7 PM |
These hours represent common Thanksgiving ranges from previous years. Some locations inside malls, plazas or low-traffic areas may open later or stay closed entirely. Travel-heavy areas, meanwhile, may operate slightly longer.
What to Expect at Applebee’s on Thanksgiving Day
Applebee’s Thanksgiving service focuses on convenience, comfort meals and limited-time holiday options. Many locations open during lunch and stay open through early dinner.
Common Thanksgiving patterns include:
• Reduced staff
• Shorter service hours
• Limited seating during peak times
• Smaller menu than usual
• Early sell-outs of popular items
If you plan to visit, aim for early afternoon for the best availability. Check our full guide on restaurant chains open on Thanksgiving and see their complete menu schedules for easier holiday planning.
Applebee’s Thanksgiving Menu Highlights
Applebee’s does not offer a full traditional turkey dinner in most locations, but you can still enjoy warm comfort-style meals perfect for Thanksgiving.
Typical offerings may include:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Entrées | Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Bourbon Street Chicken, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Sirloin Steak |
| Warm Comfort Meals | Four-Cheese Mac & Cheese, Chicken Tenders Plate, Homestyle Bowls |
| Seasonal Items | Holiday drinks, festive appetizers, limited-time entrées (varies by store) |
| Family Bundles | Available at select locations for carryout |
Applebee’s also rolls out a seasonal holiday menu across many regions during the Thanksgiving period, including festive cocktails, warm desserts and special appetizer bundles.
Why Applebee’s Thanksgiving Hours Vary
Applebee’s adjusts its holiday schedule for several reasons:
• Each location is operated by a franchise owner
• Staffing levels vary by region
• Some stores open for travelers, others do not
• Local laws and shopping-center rules affect operating times
• Evening traffic on Thanksgiving tends to be low
Because of these factors, one Applebee’s may stay open while another nearby location closes completely.
How to Check Applebee’s Thanksgiving Hours Near You
Use these reliable methods for accurate holiday timings:
• Applebee’s App: Shows real-time status, menu availability and open hours
• Store Locator: Search by ZIP code for updated holiday schedules
• Google Maps: Offers live open/close updates and real-time changes
• Call the Store: Best for confirming Thanksgiving Day hours, especially inside malls
Always check again on Thanksgiving morning, because hours can change last-minute.
Tips for Visiting Applebee’s on Thanksgiving
• Visit early afternoon to avoid limited seating
• Expect slightly slower service due to smaller staff
• Check menu availability because some items sell out
• Use online ordering or curbside pickup where offered
• Confirm hours twice—night-before and same-day—because holiday changes are common
A little planning makes Thanksgiving dining much smoother.
Summary
Applebee’s is open in many locations on Thanksgiving Day 2025, but holiday hours vary because each restaurant operates independently. Most stores that open offer reduced lunch and dinner service, limited menus and seasonal items. Checking your local store’s schedule is the best way to ensure a smooth holiday meal.
For more options, check Applebee’s holiday hours, Whataburger Thanksgiving hours and Olive Garden Thanksgiving hours to compare schedules and plan your Thanksgiving meal better.
FAQs
Is Applebee’s open in every state on Thanksgiving?
No, Applebee’s Thanksgiving hours vary by location. Some states have more open stores, while others may have most locations closed due to franchise decisions.
What time does Applebee’s usually open on Thanksgiving Day?
Most open locations begin service between 12 PM and 2 PM, but exact hours depend on the individual restaurant.
Does Applebee’s offer any special Thanksgiving menu items?
Applebee’s does not serve a traditional turkey dinner, but many locations offer seasonal entrées, warm comfort meals and holiday drinks during Thanksgiving week.
Are Applebee’s evening hours shorter on Thanksgiving?
Yes. Nearly all open locations close earlier than normal, often between 7 PM and 8 PM.
Can I order takeout or curbside pickup on Thanksgiving?
Yes, many open stores offer takeout and curbside, but availability depends on staff levels and holiday demand.
How can I check if my local Applebee’s is open on Thanksgiving?
Use the Applebee’s app, store locator, Google Maps or call your nearest restaurant for real-time Thanksgiving hours.
