Military deals on Veterans Day 2023: What are national chains in California offering?

Hector Amezcua/hamezcua@sacbee.com

Veterans Day is Saturday. These restaurant chains are offering deals to honor former and active members of the military, both in California and across the country.

Most government offices will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10, to observe the holiday.

Here’s a list of some of the chains we found that are offering Veterans Day deals.

Don’t forget to bring your Military ID. Not all locations require these, but many do.

You should also call ahead to make sure your restaurant location offers the deal or discount.

APPLEBEE’S

On Saturday, active duty military, veterans, reserves and National Guard can get a free entree (a choice of seven options) from Applebee’s, the 16th year in a row. Plus, when dining in, they will get a $5 gift card to redeem within three weeks.

BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE

Current and former military who spend $11.95 at a BJ’s Restaurant on Saturday will get a free chocolate chunk “pizookie.” They can also get a complimentary appetizer the next time they go when they spend $14.95. You’ll need your military ID or other proof of service. The offers can’t be combined.

CALIFORNIA FISH GRILL

California Fish Grill is offering veterans and active-duty military on Saturday a free taco and soft drink, no purchase necessary, according to Military.com.

CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN

Veterans and active military members who dine in at California Pizza Kitchen on Saturday can get a free entree and drink from a set menu. And if they buy a pizza, pasta or salad, they’ll receive a buy-one-get-one-free offer to buy another of equal or lesser value between Nov. 12 to Nov. 21.

CHILI’S

Chili’s is offering a free meal on Saturday. Current and former military can choose between the Old Timer with cheese, chicken bacon ranch quesadillas, three-piece crispers with fries, or chili or soup with a side salad.

DAVE AND BUSTER’S

Dave and Buster’s is offering a free entree up to $20, plus a $10 Power Card, for veterans and active duty military “all weekend long,” according to the company website.

DENNY’S

Denny’s will offer a free Original Grand Slam (two pancakes, two strips of bacon, two sausage links and two eggs) to active and retired military members with a military ID, but only on Friday from 5 a.m. to noon.

IHOP

Between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, retired and active-duty military can receive a stack of red, white and blueberry pancakes. Some IHOP restaurants could offer a free breakfast combo instead, so call before you visit. You’ll also need to show your Military ID.

LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

Lucille’s SmokeHouse BBQ is offering a free dine-in meal on both Friday and Saturday. Veterans and active military members (with proof of service or Military ID) can choose between two entrees. They’ll also receive a $10 gift card.

STARBUCKS

Starbucks is offering a free 12-ounce hot or cold brewed coffee for Veterans, military service members and military spouses on Saturday.

DUNKIN’ DONUTS

Dunkin’ Donuts is giving away a free doughnut to current and former military on Saturday. You don’t need to make a purchase or bring a Military Id, according to The Military Wallet.

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