For the 18th consecutive year, Applebees is giving all active military and veterans a free meal on Veterans Day, November 11.
Locations across the country will be participating, but you’ll want to check at your neighborhood restaurant.
The Veterans Day free meal deal will be available for dine-in only, with proof of service, at participating locations.
In the past, we’ve seen the free veterans’ meal offered at most Wichita-area locations and even at locations farther out in Kansas.
Applebee Veterans Day Deal
All Active Duty Military, Veterans, Reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant will receive a complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive Veterans Day menu as a heartfelt thank-you for their service.
Since the program began, Applebee’s has served more than 12.3 million free meals to America’s service members and veterans.
What is Included
When you arrive you’ll be given a special menu of seven popular entrées to order from. The menu may vary depending on location, but this is an example of what you can look forward to:
- 6 oz. Top Sirloin
- Classic Bacon Cheeseburger
- Chicken Tenders Platter
- Double Crunch Shrimp
- Fiesta Lime Chicken
- Oriental Chicken Salad
- Three-Cheese Chicken Penne
Beverages and tips are not included; please tip generously!
Proof of Service and Other Terms
U.S. veterans and active-duty military just need to show proof of service to receive the free meal. There’s a limit of 1 meal per person (naturally!), and it isn’t valid with other coupons or discounts. The free meal offer is good for dine-in only.
Available on November 11, 2025, at participating Applebee’s only. Dine-in only. Not valid with other coupons or discounts. Beverage and gratuity not included. U.S. Veterans and Active-Duty Military simply show proof of military service. Proof of service includes U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation. Limit 1 meal per U.S. Veteran or Active-Duty Military.
As you can see, the free Veterans Day meal doesn’t include beverage or tip, so please do tip generously. I also noticed that they will accept a picture of you wearing your uniform as proof of service, or you can wear your uniform to the restaurant.
“There’s no greater energy than at an Applebee’s on Veterans Day. It’s a day where you can not only see, but feel the neighborhood coming together,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president & Dine Brands CEO. “One of the busiest days of the year, we’re proud to welcome our nation’s heroes and thank them for their service and sacrifice with a complimentary entrée as a small token of our appreciation.”
Additional Offer
When you are dining at Applebees on November 11, you’ll get a $5 bounce back card to redeem later for dine-in, To Go or delivery. Be sure to check out the redemption dates, terms and conditions on the card.
To find your nearest participating location and to learn more, visit the Applebees website here.
Get more free meals for Veterans Day here.
Source: Applebees news
