Veterans Day in San Diego brings a wide array of complimentary meals and dining discounts from both national chains and local restaurants. These offers are designed to honor active-duty military personnel, veterans, and, in some instances, their families. Promotions typically vary by location and are often announced closer to the holiday, so checking with specific establishments or their websites is recommended before visiting. The available offers range from full made-to-order meals to specific menu items and beverages, with most requiring proof of military service for dine-in orders.
National Chain Offers
Several major national restaurant chains participate annually in Veterans Day promotions in San Diego. These offers generally apply to veterans and active-duty military personnel and are valid for dine-in service only, unless otherwise specified.
- Applebee’s: For the 18th consecutive year, Applebee’s offers veterans and active-duty military a complimentary meal on November 11. This offer is available at participating locations for dine-in only. Beverages and gratuity are not included, and the offer is not valid with other coupons or discounts.
- Bubbakoo’s Burritos: Veterans and active-duty military can receive a free Taco Trio on November 11 with a valid military ID for in-restaurant dining.
- Chili’s: All veterans and active-duty service members receive a free meal on November 11 at participating restaurants. The offer is dine-in only with a valid military ID, and beverages and gratuity are not included.
- Golden Corral: Golden Corral hosts a Military Appreciation Night on November 11 from 4 pm to close. Active-duty military, retirees, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans will receive a free "thank you" meal and drink. This is dine-in only.
- In-N-Out Burger: On Veterans Day, In-N-Out Burger provides veterans, active-duty, reserves, and National Guard members with a free made-to-order meal, which includes any burger, fries, and drink. A special decal is also offered with proof of military service.
- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers: Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a complimentary Big Tavern Burger when dining in at participating Red Robin locations on November 11. This offer is not valid for online or to-go orders.
- Wendy’s: Wendy’s offers a free Breakfast Combo to active-duty military and veterans on November 11 during breakfast hours. No purchase is required.
- Starbucks: Veterans, military service members, and their spouses can get a free 12 oz hot or iced brewed coffee on November 11. Starbucks also donates $200,000, shared evenly, to the USO and Wounded Warrior Project to support veteran and military communities.
Local San Diego Dining Specials
In addition to national chains, several San Diego-based restaurants offer unique specials and freebies for Veterans Day.
- El Chingón: Located at 560 Fifth Ave., this "Bad Ass Mexican" hotspot offers two complimentary tacos with any purchase. Standout taco selections include veggie, el típico, birria, al pastor, carnitas, Jorge’s Taco de Pescado, and shrimp.
Other Veterans Day Freebies and Discounts
Beyond restaurant meals, other businesses in and around San Diego offer free products, services, and discounts to honor veterans.
- Sport Clips: Sport Clips offers free haircuts for veterans and donates $2 per haircut on November 11, 2025. In-store fundraising for the VFW’s Help A Hero Scholarship program runs from October 5 through November 15.
- Wild Wonders: All current U.S. military service members and veterans can use code: MILITARY to get $30 off a behind-the-scenes tour at Wild Wonders. This offer is valid through November 25.
- Old Town Trolley Tours and Whaley House Museum: All veterans, active-duty military personnel, and first responders receive free admission to Old Town Trolley Tours and Whaley House Museum Daytime Self-Guided Tours from November 9 to 11. A current ID card must be shown at any Old Town Trolley booth. For each ticket sold on Veterans Day, $1 will be donated to sponsor a puppy at Patriot Service Dogs.
- SeaWorld San Diego: Former military personnel and up to three guests can enjoy one-time complimentary admission to SeaWorld San Diego, available for redemption through November 30, 2025. This includes one free admission for the service member and up to three guests. Veterans can also purchase up to six additional tickets at 50% off.
Eligibility and Verification Requirements
Understanding the eligibility criteria and required documentation is crucial for veterans seeking to utilize these offers. Requirements can differ significantly between establishments.
- Proof of Service: Each restaurant establishes its own requirements for veterans to prove their status. Some may require a full Military ID or U.S. Uniform Services Retired ID Card, while others might accept a Leave and Earning Statement or even a picture of the individual in uniform. It is essential to verify what documentation is acceptable at the chosen dining location.
- Active vs. Inactive Status: Most free meal offers for Veterans Day in San Diego are available to both active and inactive members. However, individual restaurants can provide specific details regarding their policies.
- Family Members: Generally, only the veteran is entitled to a free meal. Some restaurants may extend discounts to family members, but this is not standard. Checking with each establishment for its specific guidelines is advised.
Conclusion
Veterans Day in San Diego provides numerous opportunities for veterans and active-duty military personnel to receive complimentary meals and discounts from a variety of national and local restaurants. Offers include full meals, specific menu items, and beverages, typically available for dine-in service on November 11. In addition to dining, other freebies such as haircuts, tours, and theme park admission are available. Due to varying requirements and location-specific participation, verifying offer details and acceptable proof of service directly with the provider is strongly recommended prior to arrival.