Thanksgiving is one of America’s most beloved holidays—a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, plenty of food. While many families spend the day preparing turkey and traditional sides at home, others prefer the convenience of dining out. If you’re craving steakhouse-quality flavors instead of cooking, you might be wondering: Is LongHorn Steakhouse open on Thanksgiving?
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about LongHorn Steakhouse’s Thanksgiving hours, menu availability, holiday dining tips, comparisons with other restaurants, and practical advice to help you plan your holiday meal.

Is LongHorn Open on Thanksgiving?
Most LongHorn Steakhouse locations are closed on Thanksgiving Day. The brand, part of the Darden Restaurants group, typically reserves the holiday for employees to spend with their families. However, holiday hours can vary slightly depending on the location.
The best way to confirm is to check with your local LongHorn directly via phone or Google Maps before Thanksgiving.
Why LongHorn Usually Closes on Thanksgiving
There are a few key reasons LongHorn doesn’t operate during Thanksgiving:
- Employee Well-being – Giving staff time to celebrate with their families.
- Brand Tradition – LongHorn is primarily known for steak dinners, not holiday turkey spreads.
- Focus on Quality – Closing allows staff to return refreshed for the busy holiday weekend.
This approach is common among many casual dining steakhouses.
LongHorn’s Thanksgiving Weekend Strategy
While closed on Thanksgiving Day itself, LongHorn often:
- Reopens on Black Friday with regular hours.
- Offers seasonal specials in November (like steak + lobster or holiday cocktails).
- Promotes gift card bonuses during the holiday season.
LongHorn Thanksgiving Hours
| Date | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving Day | Closed (most locations) | Call to confirm if your location is open. |
| Black Friday | 11 AM – 10 PM | Normal hours with lunch and dinner service. |
| Day Before Thanksgiving | 11 AM – 10 PM | Busy day—reservations recommended. |
LongHorn Steakhouse Holiday Hours Overview
| Holiday | Status/Hours |
|---|---|
| Thanksgiving | Closed (most locations) |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Christmas Eve | Open, reduced hours |
| New Year’s Eve | Open normal hours |
| New Year’s Day | Open |
| Easter Sunday | Open |
| July 4th | Open |
| Memorial Day | Open |
| Labor Day | Open |
What If LongHorn is Closed on Thanksgiving?
Don’t worry—there are plenty of alternatives.
Options:
- Other Chain Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving:
- Cracker Barrel
- Golden Corral
- Denny’s
- IHOP
- Boston Market
- Local Diners or Buffets – Many independent restaurants remain open.
- Takeout Thanksgiving Meals – Grocery stores like Whole Foods, Kroger, and Walmart offer ready-made feasts.
If steak is your craving, consider dining at LongHorn the day before or after Thanksgiving.
LongHorn Thanksgiving Specials
While closed on Thanksgiving, LongHorn often highlights seasonal menu items in November:
- Prime Rib or Porterhouse Specials
- Surf & Turf Combos (steak + lobster tail or shrimp)
- Holiday Cocktails (e.g., Peppermint Bark Martini, Apple Cider Sangria)
- Dessert Favorites like Chocolate Stampede or seasonal cheesecakes
These specials make dining close to Thanksgiving just as festive.
LongHorn’s Family Bundles for Takeout
Even though they don’t serve a traditional turkey dinner, LongHorn offers Family Meal Bundles for 4–6 people, which can be a great Thanksgiving-week alternative.
| Bundle Type | Serves | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sirloin Family Meal | 4–5 | $55–$65 | Steaks, 2 sides, bread |
| Baby Back Ribs | 4–5 | $60–$70 | Ribs, 2 sides, bread |
| Chicken Tenders | 4–6 | $45–$55 | Tenders, 2 sides, bread |
| Salmon Bundle | 4–5 | $65–$75 | Salmon, 2 sides, bread |
LongHorn vs Competitors on Thanksgiving
| Restaurant | Thanksgiving Day Status | Special Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| LongHorn Steakhouse | Closed (most locations) | Seasonal steak specials pre/post holiday |
| Outback Steakhouse | Closed | Seasonal cocktails in November |
| Texas Roadhouse | Closed | Family packs available before holiday |
| Cracker Barrel | Open | Traditional turkey dinner |
| Golden Corral | Open | All-you-can-eat holiday buffet |
Why LongHorn Fans Don’t Mind the Closure
- Many loyal guests prefer to celebrate Thanksgiving at home.
- They plan a steakhouse outing the weekend after as a family tradition.
- Holiday gift card deals make LongHorn a perfect December choice.
Tips for Dining at LongHorn During the Holidays
- Call ahead – Hours may vary by location.
- Reserve early – Day before Thanksgiving is very busy.
- Check for seasonal specials – Unique entrées and cocktails.
- Consider takeout family bundles – Stress-free meal option.
- Use rewards and gift cards – Extra savings during holiday season.
Customer Opinions
- “We always go to LongHorn the night before Thanksgiving for a steak dinner—it’s our family tradition.”
- “Wish they were open on Thanksgiving, but I get why they close. We go on Black Friday instead.”
- “Their seasonal surf & turf in November is amazing, even if it’s not turkey.”
FAQs: Is LongHorn Steakhouse Open on Thanksgiving?
Here are 17 detailed FAQs:
1. Is LongHorn Steakhouse open on Thanksgiving Day?
No, most locations are closed.
2. Are any locations open on Thanksgiving?
Rarely—always call your local restaurant to confirm.
3. What hours does LongHorn open on Black Friday?
Typically 11 AM – 10 PM.
4. Can I order takeout on Thanksgiving?
No, LongHorn is closed, but you can order the day before.
5. Does LongHorn serve turkey for Thanksgiving?
No, their menu focuses on steak, ribs, chicken, and seafood.
6. Does LongHorn offer Thanksgiving specials?
Yes, seasonal steak specials are available in November.
7. Can I buy a LongHorn gift card for the holidays?
Yes, and they often run bonus gift card promotions.
8. Are LongHorn family meals available during Thanksgiving week?
Yes, but not on Thanksgiving Day itself.
9. What restaurants are open on Thanksgiving instead?
Cracker Barrel, Golden Corral, Denny’s, and Boston Market.
10. Does LongHorn offer catering for Thanksgiving?
No, catering isn’t available on Thanksgiving.
11. When should I go to LongHorn around Thanksgiving?
The day before or after Thanksgiving is popular.
12. Does LongHorn have holiday cocktails?
Yes, rotating cocktails like Peppermint Bark Martini.
13. Can I use promo codes or rewards during the holidays?
Yes, eClub members still receive coupons.
14. What’s the busiest day for LongHorn in November?
The day before Thanksgiving and Black Friday dinner.
15. Are desserts different in November?
Yes, seasonal cheesecakes and pies may appear.
16. Can I host a Thanksgiving party at LongHorn?
Not on Thanksgiving Day, but private dining is available other times.
17. Is LongHorn open on Christmas?
No, they are closed on Christmas Day as well.
Final Thoughts
So, is LongHorn Steakhouse open on Thanksgiving? For most locations, the answer is no—the chain values giving staff time with family. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy LongHorn flavors around the holiday. With seasonal steak specials, family bundles, and holiday gift card deals, dining before or after Thanksgiving is an excellent alternative.
- LongHorn is closed on Thanksgiving Day.
- Open regular hours on Black Friday and surrounding days.
- Offers seasonal entrées, cocktails, and desserts in November.
- Great family bundle options for takeout.
- Holiday gift card promotions add extra value.
If you’re craving steakhouse quality around Thanksgiving, plan ahead: enjoy LongHorn before or after the holiday, and save your turkey feast for Thursday.












