In a holiday season when many local businesses shut their doors, a handful of Fort Wayne restaurants are making sure residents and visitors have a place to enjoy a festive meal. Whether you’re craving a traditional holiday feast or a quick bite, several dining spots in the area will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Local Restaurants Keeping Their Doors Open
Fort Wayne residents accustomed to a quiet Christmas might be in for a pleasant surprise this year. While most of the city will slow down for the holidays, local restaurants are catering to those who want to avoid cooking or just need a change of pace. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an evening out with friends, these businesses are offering something for everyone.
- The Chop House: A fine-dining favorite, The Chop House will be open for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, offering a special holiday menu.
- The Olive Garden: Known for its Italian offerings, The Olive Garden will keep its doors open on both days, serving up pasta and hearty dishes for those craving comfort food.
- Applebee’s: Applebee’s is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and all-American menu, and this year, it will be open to welcome guests on Christmas Eve.
What to Expect: Holiday Menus and Timings
Each restaurant has its own set of hours and offerings, with many rolling out special holiday menus for the occasion. Here’s a look at what some of these restaurants are planning for the two holiday days:
- The Chop House: Serving a fixed-price three-course dinner, The Chop House’s Christmas menu includes prime rib, lobster tail, and a choice of dessert. The restaurant will be open from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Olive Garden: Featuring a holiday-inspired menu, guests can enjoy items like lasagna, stuffed mushrooms, and seasonal soups. They’ll be open from noon until 8:00 PM on both Christmas Eve and Day.
- Applebee’s: Known for its festive drinks, Applebee’s will offer a full menu alongside its signature holiday cocktails. Their hours will be from 11:00 AM to midnight.
A few restaurants are even offering special deals, so be sure to check in advance to make reservations or confirm hours.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas Eve and Day
If you’re planning to head out for a meal during the holidays, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, reservations are often recommended, especially for popular spots like The Chop House and The Olive Garden, which tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season.
Here are a few more tips for making your holiday dining experience stress-free:
- Call Ahead: Confirm the hours and availability, as some locations might have reduced hours on Christmas Eve and Day.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Many restaurants will have fewer tables available, so be ready for a possible wait.
- Check for Special Holiday Menus: Many restaurants will be offering limited-time dishes, so review their holiday menu beforehand.
For those planning a quiet evening at home or those working around family schedules, these local restaurants are providing a much-needed option to relax and enjoy a festive meal without the stress of cooking.
