Many restaurants and food service establishments offer special discounts and free items to senior citizens, providing opportunities for savings on dining out. These offers typically require patrons to be at least 50, 55, 60, 62, or 65 years of age, depending on the specific establishment. Availability and specific discount amounts can vary significantly by location, as many restaurants are independently owned and operated franchises. Therefore, it is always recommended that customers inquire about senior discounts before ordering. Additionally, proof of age, such as a driver’s license or other identification, is often required to redeem these offers.
Fast Food and Quick Service Establishments
Several fast food and quick service restaurants provide discounts or free items to senior customers. These offers range from a percentage off the total bill to complimentary beverages.
- Arby’s: Diners aged 55 and older may receive a 10% discount on their order or a free drink with purchase.
- A&W: A 10% discount is available at participating locations for customers aged 55 and older.
- Backyard Burger: Seniors may receive a free drink with purchase, or a 10% discount for those 55 and older.
- Burger King: Discounts vary by location for customers 55 and older. Some locations offer a 10% discount, while others may have additional discounts on coffee and soft drinks.
- Captain D’s Seafood: Diners aged 62 and older may take advantage of the “Happy Wednesday Offer,” which includes a choice of eight different meals and a drink for under $5.
- Chick-fil-A: Offers vary by location but are usually a free small drink or a 10% discount for those 55 and older.
- Dairy Queen: Participating locations offer a free small drink or a 10% discount to customers aged 55 and older.
- Dunkin’ (Dunkin’ Donuts): Some locations offer a 10% discount or free coffee to customers 55 and older. AARP members may also receive a free donut with the purchase of a large or extra-large beverage.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Seniors aged 60 and older may enjoy a 10% discount, or a discount on a baker’s dozen of bagels at participating locations.
- Hardee’s: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 52 and older.
- Jack in the Box: Customers aged 55 and older can save 20% at participating locations.
- KFC: Seniors 55 and older can get a free small drink with a meal purchase. Franchises may also offer a discount of up to 10%, excluding coupons or sales.
- Krispy Kreme: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 50 and older.
- Long John Silver’s: Discounts vary by location for customers 55 and older.
- McDonald’s: Customers aged 55 and older can receive discounts on coffee, including a 20% discount on coffee every day at some locations.
- Subway: Known for providing discounts on certain subs and combo meals for seniors.
- Taco Bell: Some locations offer 5% off and a free drink to customers aged 65 and older. Other locations have discounted offerings for seniors.
- Wendy’s: A free drink or a 10% discount is available for customers 55 and older.
Casual Dining and Sit-Down Restaurants
Casual dining establishments often provide senior menus, early bird specials, or percentage-based discounts.
- Applebee’s: A 10% to 15% discount is available for those over 60 at participating locations.
- Bob’s Big Boy: Up to 15% off depending on the location for customers 60 and older.
- Boston Market: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 65 and older.
- Chili’s: Seniors aged 55 and older can get 10% off at participating locations.
- CiCi’s Pizza: Discounts vary by location for customers 50 and older.
- Denny’s: Offers a 55+ menu and a 15% discount for AARP members at participating locations.
- El Pollo Loco: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 60 and older.
- Fuddrucker’s: Seniors can get a 10% discount on a senior platter (hamburger and side dish). Some locations may also offer a general 10% discount for those 55 and older.
- Golden Corral: Seniors may enjoy the Senior Early Bird Special for $8.99, including a drink, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A 10% discount is also available for customers aged 60 and older.
- IHOP: Offers a special 55+ menu with lower prices for smaller portions of dinner entrees and breakfast favorites. Most locations also have a 10% discount for seniors, although the age requirement may vary.
- Mr. Gatti’s Pizza: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 60 and older.
- Shoney’s of Florida: Offers a 10% discount for seniors.
Buffets and Specialty Dining
- Golden Corral: In addition to the Early Bird Special, a 10% discount is available for customers aged 60 and older.
General Information and Tips for Seniors
Discounts and freebies are not consistent across the board and can range from a certain percentage off a bill to a free drink with the purchase of a meal. Many chain restaurants are owned independently, meaning that discounts or promotions will vary by location. It is crucial to ask if there is a senior menu or an early dinner discount.
Even if a restaurant does not offer a specific senior discount, other savings opportunities may exist. For example, some restaurants offer free membership rewards programs to all customers, allowing patrons to earn free food and discounted meals.
Age requirements for senior discounts vary. Some establishments offer discounts to customers as young as 50, while others require patrons to be 55, 60, 62, or 65. Always check the specific age requirement for the desired establishment.
Conclusion
Numerous restaurants across the United States offer discounts and free items to senior citizens. These offers provide valuable savings opportunities but vary significantly by location, age requirement, and discount type. Seniors should always inquire about available discounts, be prepared to show proof of age, and check with individual locations to confirm participation before ordering. Additionally, joining restaurant loyalty programs can provide further savings regardless of age.