Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, and many Ozarks residents prefer to celebrate with a meal out rather than in the kitchen. To help families plan their holiday, KY3 has gathered the most up‑to‑date information on restaurants that will be open on Thursday, November 24, 2026. The list includes traditional family diners, national chains, and local favorites, with hours and reservation notes where available.

Springfield Restaurants

• Alli’s Family Restaurant – Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
• Applebee’s – Serves guests from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Cracker Barrel (2858 North Glenstone) – Open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Golden Corral (2020 East Primrose) – Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Hurts Donut Shops – Open 24 hours
• IHOP – Both locations (3804 South Glenstone and 2647 North Kansas Expressway) open 24 hours
• Nawab’s Indian Cuisine – Open 11:00 a.m.‑2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.‑9:00 p.m.
• Rey’s Family Restaurant (2129 West Republic Road) – Open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Springfield Family Restaurant (2222 South Campbell Avenue) – Open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Waffle House – Open 24 hours at all locations
• W.F. Cody’s (3138 East Sunshine Street) – Kitchen 4:00 p.m.‑10:00 p.m.; Bar until 1:30 a.m.
• Ziggie’s Cafe – Both Springfield locations open 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Branson Restaurants

• Grand Country Buffet – Open 7:00 a.m.‑10:30 a.m.; 11:00 a.m.‑8:00 p.m. (no reservations)
• Joe’s Crab Shack – Open 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Lav​ndry’s Seafood House (2900 W Hwy 76 Blvd) – Open 11:00 a.m.‑8:00 p.m.
• McFarlain’s Family Restaurant – Open 11:00 a.m.‑8:00 p.m.
• Pasghettis Italian – Open 11:00 a.m.‑9:00 p.m.
• Shoney’s – Open 11:00 a.m.‑4:00 p.m.
• SS Dockside Cafe and Pub (2600 West 76 Country Blvd.) – Open 3:00 p.m.‑8:00 p.m.
• Star Bar Grill (100 Fall Creek Road) – Open 11:00 a.m.‑8:00 p.m.

Other Ozarks Communities

• Alice Irene’s Restaurant (Marionville) – Open 10:30 a.m.‑2:00 p.m.; reservations highly recommended.
• Big Whiskey’s – All 417 locations open at 5:00 p.m.
• Billy Gail’s – All 417 locations open 7:00 a.m.‑3:00 p.m.
• Flat Creek – All locations open 10:30 a.m.‑5:00 p.m.
• Gold Star (Billings) – Open 6:00 a.m.‑2:00 p.m.
• The Rocking Chair Restaurant (Conway) – Open 11:00 a.m.‑3:00 p.m.
• Wagon Wheel Family Restaurant (Forsyth) – Open 11:00 a.m.‑6:00 p.m.

All establishments listed are welcoming guests on Thanksgiving Day. If you wish to add a restaurant that is not on the list, KY3 asks that you email [email protected] with the name, location and hours.

Whether you are looking for a quick breakfast, a family‑style dinner, or a late‑night bite after the holiday festivities, the Ozarks offer a variety of options to suit every palate. Plan ahead, especially at venues that recommend reservations, and enjoy a stress‑free Thanksgiving with loved ones.

Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.