Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar has established a long-standing tradition of honoring U.S. military personnel and veterans with a complimentary meal on Veterans Day. For the year 2025, the restaurant chain continues this program, offering a free full-size entrée from a specific menu to eligible individuals who dine in at participating locations. This initiative, now in its 18th consecutive year, has served over 12.3 million free meals to service members and veterans since its inception. The offer is part of a broader national trend where businesses recognize federal holidays with promotions for military communities, though participation and terms can vary by location.
The 2025 Veterans Day promotion is scheduled for Tuesday, November 11. It is exclusively for dine-in service at participating Applebee's restaurants within the United States. The offer is not valid for delivery, third-party platform orders, or takeout. Customers are advised to confirm participation with their local Applebee's branch prior to visiting, as specific locations may elect to change or withdraw from the promotion. The company's official statements emphasize that the offer is a thank-you for service and is intended to foster a sense of community.
Eligibility for the free meal is limited to individuals who can present valid proof of U.S. military service. The following groups are explicitly included: Active Duty Military, Veterans, Reserves, and National Guard members. The offer is extended to U.S. service members only; there is no indication in the source material that the promotion applies to non-U.S. military personnel or dependents. Each eligible person is entitled to one complimentary entrée per visit, with the restriction of one meal per veteran or active-duty individual.
Acceptable forms of proof of service are specified to facilitate verification. The documentation must demonstrate current or past military affiliation. Permitted proof includes: * U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card * U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card * Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) * Veterans organization card (e.g., American Legion, VFW) * A photograph of the individual in uniform (wearing the uniform) * DD214 and citation or commendation
The Veterans Day menu for 2025 offers a selection of seven entrée choices. This curated menu is designed to provide familiar and popular options for participants. The available entrées are: * 6 oz. Top Sirloin * Classic Bacon Cheeseburger * Chicken Tenders Platter * Double Crunch Shrimp * Fiesta Lime Chicken® * Oriental Chicken Salad * Three-Cheese Chicken Penne
The complimentary entrée is provided at no cost, but certain exclusions apply. The offer does not cover the cost of beverages, tax, gratuity, delivery fees, or alcohol. It cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts, or promotions. The offer is also not valid on gift card purchases. The promotion is limited to one meal per qualifying veteran or active-duty military member per visit.
In addition to the free entrée, participating veterans and active-duty military personnel will receive a $5 Bounce Back Card. This card is a promotional voucher for a future visit. The Bounce Back Card is issued one per qualifying individual. It is redeemable between November 12, 2025, and November 30, 2025. To use the card, it must be presented and relinquished at the time of redemption. The card is valid for use at participating Applebee's locations or online via applebees.com or the Applebee's mobile app. It is limited to one card per party, per table, per visit and excludes tax, alcohol, delivery fees, gift cards, and gratuity. The card is not redeemable for cash, and no change will be given. If lost, stolen, photographed, scanned, reproduced, or altered, the card becomes void.
For consumers interested in additional offers from Applebee's, the company encourages joining "Club Applebee’s." Membership in this club provides access to a welcome offer and information on exclusive deals and specials. Details for sign-up are available through the official Applebee's website.
When planning to participate in the Veterans Day promotion, consumers should be aware of several key considerations. First, the offer is strictly dine-in only. This is a common restriction for restaurant holiday promotions, as noted in broader reports on Veterans Day deals. Second, participation is not guaranteed at every Applebee's location, even within the same city. It is prudent for individuals to call their local restaurant ahead of November 11 to confirm it is honoring the promotion. Third, the required proof of service should be brought along to ensure a smooth transaction. The list of acceptable documents is comprehensive, providing multiple options for different types of military personnel.
The Applebee's Veterans Day offer is part of a larger ecosystem of military appreciation initiatives. The American Legion, for example, compiles and verifies an annual list of offers for veterans and service members. While Applebee's is a prominent participant, other national chains also have promotions, though their terms may differ. For instance, some offers may extend to spouses or dependents if explicitly stated, but the Applebee's 2025 offer, as described in the source material, is limited to the veteran or active-duty member themselves.
It is important to note that the information presented here is based solely on the provided source documents, which include official company releases and verified discount information sites. The sources are considered reliable as they stem from the brand's official communications and a dedicated military discount platform. However, as with any time-sensitive promotion, details are subject to change, and the final authority on participation rests with individual restaurant operators.
Conclusion
Applebee's 2025 Veterans Day promotion offers a structured and accessible way for U.S. veterans and active-duty military personnel to receive a complimentary meal. The program is characterized by a specific dine-in requirement, a curated menu of seven entrée options, and clear eligibility criteria centered on valid proof of U.S. military service. The inclusion of a $5 Bounce Back Card adds value for a return visit. Consumers are advised to verify participation with their local restaurant and to prepare appropriate documentation to ensure a successful experience. This long-running initiative reflects a corporate commitment to recognizing military service, though it operates within defined parameters and exclusions.