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December 17.2025
3 Minutes Read

Avoid Cooking on New Year’s Day 2026: Discover Restaurants Open for Dine-In and Takeout!

Festive sparkler lighting up with bokeh lights.

Don't Feel Like Cooking? Here’s Your New Year’s Solution!

As the New Year rolls in, the excitement of fresh beginnings typically means lots of plans, but cooking isn't always at the top of the list. If you're in the Triangle area and want to kick off 2026 without spending your day in the kitchen, we've got you covered! Numerous restaurants in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and beyond are ready to welcome patrons for dine-in, takeout, and delivery on January 1st.

While planning your festive celebrations, remember that many of these eateries also offer special menus for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, not to mention the usual favorites. In some cases, grabbing a meal for home might be just the ticket, and if you haven't yet ordered ahead, there are options.

Your Go-To Restaurants Open for New Year’s Day

To get you started, here’s a list of places you can turn to for a delightful meal:

  • Carolina Brewery: Enjoy brunch from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
  • Chili's: This spot will be serving its regular menu – perfect for those craving their classic dishes.
  • The Durham: With a menu ready for brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., it's a great spot for a hearty meal.
  • McDonald’s: If fast food is more your speed, many locations will be open during their usual hours.
  • Perry’s Steakhouse: Reservations are recommended for a special New Year’s meal.

Celebrate with Special New Year’s Menus

Many local restaurants will not only serve their regular selections on this festive day but also offer traditional New Year’s meals that can add a unique twist to your dining experience. For example, Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen will provide a classic spread that features Southern favorites. Make sure you call ahead to confirm hours and specialties.

Skip the Stress — Order In!

If dining out isn’t in the cards, don’t fret! A multitude of restaurants and caterers provide prepared meals that require advance ordering. A well-planned dinner can be the perfect way to celebrate without lifting a finger. From gourmet entrees to dishes serving multiple people, there’s a platter for everyone.

Get Ready to Celebrate — Safety Tips for the New Year

New Year’s festivities can be exciting but also come with responsibilities. As you plan your outings, remember that safety should be your priority. Whether you opt for rideshare services after dinner or ensure your group has a designated driver, take the steps to make this New Year both festive and safe.

Additionally, always check the restaurant’s current status and hours, as they may vary for the holiday. Reservations can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to lock in your plans early.

Find More to Do in the Triangle!

As you paint your New Year’s canvas with culinary adventures, you might want to look into local events happening throughout the greater Triangle area. Cultural festivals, arts exhibitions, and community events create a vibrant backdrop for your celebrations. There are also outdoor adventures waiting to be explored — the Triangle boasts fantastic hiking trails, recreational parks, and family activities perfect for ringing in the new year together.

So, as you start to mark off your New Year’s resolutions, dining out (or in) is a fun way to embrace the festivities without being tied to the stove!

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