Veterans Day Freebies: Firehouse Subs, Freddy's, and Texas Roadhouse Serve Gratitude—One Plate at a Time

Across the country this Tuesday, restaurants are offering more than just food—they're serving up gratitude. Veterans Day 2025 has inspired dozens of chains to provide free meals, drinks, and discounts to those who've served in the US military. From subs to steaks, these gestures reflect a growing tradition: honouring service through shared meals.

A Quiet Thank You, Served Hot

Firehouse Subs is honouring service members with a buy-one-get-one-free sub meal offer for veterans and active-duty military who present a valid ID. The promotion aligns with the brand's firefighter-inspired mission and ongoing support for public service communities.

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is also joining the tribute. Veterans and active-duty military personnel who visit Freddy's on Veterans Day, 11 November 2025, will receive a free Freddy's Combo meal card with no purchase required. The card is redeemable through 31 December 2025, giving recipients flexibility to enjoy their meal at a later date.

Texas Roadhouse, meanwhile, is taking a slightly different approach. Instead of a dine-in meal, the steakhouse is handing out meal vouchers to veterans who stop by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. These vouchers are redeemable through 31 May 2026, giving recipients flexibility to enjoy their meal at a time most suitable to them. It's a gesture that respects both service and schedule.

More Than Just a Deal

While the offers vary—from free pancakes at IHOP to complimentary coffee at Starbucks—the sentiment is consistent: appreciation. Most deals require proof of service, such as a military ID, and are valid only on Tuesday, November 11, at participating locations.

Other notable offers include:

• Buffalo Wild Wings: 10 free boneless wings and fries
• Cracker Barrel: Complimentary Sunrise Pancake Special
• Denny's: Free Grand Slam breakfast from 5am to noon
• Red Lobster: Free Shrimp & Chips entrée
• Shake Shack: Free Big Shack burger for in-store orders
• Golden Corral: Free buffet and beverage during Military Appreciation Night

These promotions aren't just about marketing—they're about memory. For many veterans, a free meal is a moment of recognition in a civilian world that often moves too fast to notice.

Beyond the Plate

Retailers are also participating in the day's spirit. Target, Walgreens, and Staples are offering discounts to veterans and their families, while Great Clips is providing free haircuts or haircut cards to service members. Even non-military customers can join in by gifting a 'thank a veteran' card.

Digital platforms like ID.me and SheerID help verify military status for online deals, expanding access beyond physical storefronts.

A Tradition That Nourishes

Veterans Day may be a federal holiday, but its impact is felt most in local gestures—like a hot meal, a warm drink, or a simple voucher. Chains like Firehouse Subs, Freddy's, and Texas Roadhouse aren't just feeding veterans; they're participating in a national ritual of gratitude.

As the day unfolds, these offers remind us that service deserves recognition—not just in parades or speeches, but in everyday acts of kindness. One plate at a time.