Veterans have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms, and it's only fitting that we show our gratitude in meaningful ways. This Veteran's Day, numerous popular chain restaurants are offering a variety of complimentary meals, drinks, and desserts to honor those who have served. Whether you're a veteran yourself or want to treat a loved one who has served, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

Serving Up Appreciation: Veteran's Day Freebies at Top Restaurants

Meals for Military Members

For veterans and active-duty service members, a free meal can be a heartwarming way to celebrate their service. Many restaurants are offering special menus and complimentary entrees on Veteran's Day, including:Another Broken Egg Café: Enjoy a Patriotic French Toast breakfast, complete with blueberries, strawberries, and fresh whipped cream, along with a Barista House Blend Coffee.Applebee's: Choose from a selection of seven entrees, including a 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, and Fiesta Lime Chicken.Bob Evans: Select from 10 classic comfort food favorites, such as the Country Biscuit Breakfast, Down-Home Country-Fried Steak, and Buttermilk Hotcakes.Bonefish Grill: Indulge in a complimentary order of the restaurant's signature Bang Bang Shrimp, along with a soft beverage.Buffalo Wild Wings: Enjoy 10 free boneless wings and fries.California Pizza Kitchen: Receive a complimentary meal from a select menu, plus a BOGO offer to redeem for a pizza, pasta, or salad on a future visit.Carraba's: Get an entrée of equal or lesser value for free with the purchase of another entrée, or enjoy a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert with a non-alcoholic beverage.Chili's: Choose from select menu items for a free meal.Denny's: Start the day with a free Original Grand Slam, including two buttermilk pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage.Friendly's: Savor a free All American burger with cheese and a beverage.Golden Corral: Dine in for a free "thank you" meal during the restaurant's Military Appreciation Night.IHOP: Treat yourself to a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo.Olive Garden: Select from a special menu, including options like cheese ravioli, spaghetti and meatballs, and never-ending soup, salad, and breadsticks.Outback Steakhouse: Enjoy a free Bloomin' Onion with the purchase of an adult entrée.Red Lobster: Indulge in a free Shrimp & Chip deal, including six Walt's Favorite Shrimp, French fries, and coleslaw.Texas Roadhouse: Choose from a specific menu or receive a voucher for a future dine-in or carryout visit.White Castle: Savor a free individual combo meal or breakfast combo meal.

Caffeinated Gratitude: Free Drinks for Veterans

For those in need of a caffeine boost, several chains are offering complimentary beverages to veterans and active-duty service members:Einstein Bros. Bagels: Enjoy a free hot or iced coffee (any size) with an in-store purchase.Whataburger: Receive a free 16 oz. hot or iced coffee, available all year round with a valid ID.

Dessert Delights: Sweet Treats for Those Who Served

No Veteran's Day celebration is complete without a delicious dessert. Several restaurants are offering complimentary sweets to veterans, including:BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse: Indulge in a free Pizookie (a large, freshly baked cookie topped with ice cream or other treats) and receive a bounce-back coupon for a free appetizer.Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen: Choose a complimentary dessert, such as cheesecake, carrot cake, or hot fudge sundae cake, or opt for a free appetizer instead.Dunkin': Enjoy a free donut (while supplies last) with a visit to the local Dunkin' location.Whether you're a veteran or know someone who has served, these Veteran's Day freebies and discounts are a wonderful way to show your appreciation and enjoy a delicious meal, drink, or dessert. So, gather your loved ones, visit your local participating restaurants, and let's celebrate the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country.