After a long day juggling family schedules or managing yet another busy week, cooking dinner isn’t always realistic. Eating out is often the easiest option—but it can add up quickly. For service members and military families, many restaurants offer year-round military discounts that help make dining out more affordable.

These discounts aren’t always posted on menus or signs, so you may need to ask when ordering. For families who know about them, though, they often become part of the routine—an easy way to save money while enjoying a break from the kitchen.

Which Restaurants Offer Year-Round Military Discounts?

Before diving in, it’s important to clarify what “year-round” means.

Year-round military discounts are available on regular days throughout the year, not just on holidays like Veterans Day or Memorial Day. While special-event deals are common, the discounts below are typically offered on ordinary days—making them especially helpful for active-duty families managing daily expenses.

Keep in mind: Many restaurant chains are franchised, meaning individual locations may set their own policies. Discounts can vary, so politely asking before ordering is always a good idea.

Below are several restaurants known to offer ongoing military discounts for active-duty service members and their families.

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Casual Dining Chains with Military Discounts

Casual dining chains are a dependable option when you want to sit down, relax, and enjoy a full meal with your family.

Applebee’s

Many locations offer a 10% military discount year-round. With locations nationwide, it’s a convenient option near most installations.

Outback Steakhouse

Outback typically offers a 10% military discount at participating locations. It’s a popular choice for family dinners, celebrations, or a simple night out.

Texas Roadhouse

Known for its lively atmosphere and large portions, many Texas Roadhouse locations offer year-round military discounts. It’s especially family-friendly, with plenty of menu options for all ages.

Family-Friendly and Casual Restaurants

When schedules are packed, and cooking isn’t happening, these restaurants offer quick, reliable meals—and military discounts to help stretch your budget.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Many locations offer around 10% off food for military customers. It’s a convenient option for takeout, casual dining, or family game nights.

IHOP

Several IHOP locations offer military discounts, making it a helpful stop for early mornings, post-PT breakfasts, or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

Denny’s

Open 24/7, Denny’s is ideal for families with unpredictable schedules. Many locations offer ongoing military discounts, making it a go-to option at any hour.

Morning Stops: Coffee and Quick Bites

Military discounts aren’t limited to full meals. Active-duty members and military families can also find savings on breakfast items and coffee.

Starbucks

Starbucks is the coffee shop we all know and are pretty familiar with, but you might not know that they offer free, tall coffee at some U.S. company-operated stores.

Dunkin’

Discounts and special offers vary by franchise, but many locations offer ongoing military deals. Policies may differ, so it’s best to ask when ordering.

Krispy Kreme

Military discounts vary by store, but some locations offer them year-round. A quick question at the counter can often unlock savings.

Why Year-Round Discounts Matter for Military Families

For active-duty families, everyday savings matter. Year-round discounts don’t require advance planning, special holidays, or standing in long lines. They’re simply there—quiet acknowledgments of service that help make daily life a little easier.

Over time, these small savings add up, especially for families balancing PCS moves, training schedules, and tight budgets. More importantly, these discounts offer a sense of appreciation woven into everyday routines—not just reserved for special occasions.

So the next time you’re exhausted, hungry, and need a night off from cooking, remember: there are places where active duty and military families are welcome—and where dinner can cost a little less.

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