Illinois Thanksgiving: These Restaurants Will Be Open For You

Although our family usually stays home for holiday dinners, there was that one year that our oven decided to malfunction and burst into flames and we ended up at TGI Fridays for our Christmas Eve dinner. It wasn't what we had expected that morning, but they really saved our night when things in the kitchen took a turn for the worse.

It's nice to know that even though you may not stop by any of these fine eateries we're about to list for you, there are going to be plenty of openings if your oven catches fire and you need someplace to eat on Thanksgiving Day. Or, maybe this is your incentive to skip cooking the dinner yourself and head out to someplace where someone else is doing the cooking.

As always, the restaurants on the list are generally franchises or chain restaurants, but there are local joints that are going to open their doors next Thursday, too. So, reach out to your favorite local spots or check their websites for more information about holiday hours.

Here's Who's Open For Dinner On Thanksgiving Day Here In Illinois

(With a big thanks and hat-tip to RetailMeNot.com)

Applebee’s: Select Applebee’s restaurants will host a Thanksgiving Day meal this year. In years past, it has featured turkey breast, mashed potatoes, gravy and garlicky green beans (in addition to Applebee’s regular menu items).

Bob Evans: You can dine at their restaurant on Thanksgiving Day from 8am to 7pm or choose delivery or pickup meals.

Burger King

Cracker Barrel: Cracker Barrel is open regular business hours this Thanksgiving Day and offering a traditional feast of turkey, dressing and pumpkin pie.

Denny’s: Open for dine-in and pickup on Turkey Day if you need a quick bite or coffee.

Dunkin’: Grab a dozen to share as you prepare for the big meal. Dunkin’ will be open on Thanksgiving Day, but customers should check with their local store or the app to check times.

Golden Corral: Golden Corral restaurants are open from 11am to 7pm (some later). You can also order Thanksgiving Holiday Meals to Go, orders must be placed 72 hours before pick up.

IHOP: Most IHOP restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day.

Krispy Kreme: Krispy Kreme locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day, although they will close early at 2 p.m.

McDonald’s: The Golden Arches join the list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving, cranking out burgers and fries as normal.

Morton’s Steakhouse: Morton’s Steakhouse will be open for Thanksgiving this year. You can dine in, or pre-order signature sides.

Popeye’s: Select Popeye’s locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day. Call your local restaurant for details.

Ruby Tuesday: Select Ruby Tuesday restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving Day.

Smokey Bones: Enjoy a beloved Thanksgiving favorite at Smokey Bones. The restaurant will be serving up sliced smoked turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, cornbread, and dessert.

Starbucks: Many locations will be open, but expect some to close early. Some Starbucks located in business districts or inside office buildings may be closed.

Wendy’s: Wendy’s will be open for regular hours on Thanksgiving Day.