Veterans Day, originally dubbed “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, marked the first anniversary of the end of World War I and became a national holiday beginning in 1938.
Americans across the globe, rightfully, honor veterans and active-duty military; while several restaurants show respect by offering discounts. Below is a list of 70 local (to Seattle) restaurants offering free or discounted meals to those who've served:
7-Eleven: Get a free coffee or Big Gulp on Veterans Day. Download the 7-Eleven app and sign in or register.
Applebee’s: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free meal from a limited menu on Veterans Day. Proof of service is required.
Black Angus Steakhouse: On Wednesday, active-duty military members and veterans get an All-American Steak Plate for $10.99 plus all the fixings and a non-alcoholic beverage. Must show military ID.
Bonefish Grill: A 10% off Heroes Discount is available all day, every day. The discount is open to servicemen and women, police officers, firefighters, Emergency Medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, Military Personnel and their immediate family members who have VALID ID.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Veterans and active-duty military can get a free order of 10 boneless wings and a side of fries.
California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans and active-duty military personnel will be able to select a free entree from a special Veterans Day menu. CPK asks that members wear their uniform or bring military ID or other proof of service.
Chili’s Grill & Bar: Active-duty military members and veterans can choose a complimentary meal from a select menu on Veterans Day.
Claim Jumper: On Monday, veterans who show valid can get a free entree from a special menu and a $5 bounce back card for a subsequent visit.
Denny’s: Active-duty military members and veterans will receive a free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast on Wednesday from 5 a.m. to noon. Diners must show ID to receive this offer.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Active-duty military members and veterans get a free Pulled Pork Classic Sandwich on Wednesday. You must present a military ID or valid proof of service.
Dunkin' Donuts: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free donut Wednesday at Dunkin' Donuts restaurants nationwide, no purchase necessary.
Einstein Bros. Bagels: Active-duty military members and veterans get a free hot or iced medium coffee.
Famous Dave’s: Active-duty military members and veterans will receive a free two-meat combo. Dine-in or to-go orders.
Golden Corral: Through Nov. 30, active-duty military members and veterans can get a free “thank you meal” promotional card that’s good for one free lunch or dinner buffet and beverage. The card can be used Monday through Thursday after 11 a.m. through May 31.
IHOP: Active-duty military members and veterans can get free Red, White, & Blue Pancakes on Wednesday until 7 p.m.
Little Caesars Pizza: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free lunch combo on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Macaroni Grill: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs plus spaghetti with military ID.
Menchie’s Free Frozen Yogurt: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free 6-ounce frozen yogurt all day Wednesday. Must show a valid ID or be in uniform.
Outback Steakhouse: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free Bloomin' Onion and Coca-Cola on Wednesday.
Pilot Flying J/U.S. Pilot: Active-duty military members and veterans get a free breakfast, including a coffee, through Sunday. The offer is available via the app.
Red Lobster: On Wednesday, active-duty military members and veterans get a free appetizer or dessert from a select Veterans Day menu. To receive the offer, show a valid military ID.
Red Robin: Active-duty military members and veterans get a free dine-in Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries through the end of the month.
Starbucks: Active-duty military members and veterans and military spouses are invited to enjoy a free tall (12-ounce) hot brewed coffee.
Target: honors military and veterans on Veterans Day (November 11), by offering all U.S. active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off the guest’s full basket, some exclusions apply. To receive the offer, eligible guests must first register at www.target.com/circle/military.
Wendy’s: Active-duty military members and veterans with military ID can get a free small breakfast combo on Wednesday.
Wienerschnitzel: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a free chili dog with a small fry and a small Pepsi on Wednesday. Military ID required.
Yard House: Active-duty military members and veterans can get a complimentary appetizer on Wednesday with valid military ID. Offer is valid for dine-in only.
FYI: Many restaurants require that active-duty military members be in uniform, and almost all require that anyone requesting the deal present military identification.