Restaurants open on Christmas Day 2021: Where to eat if you're not in the mood for Chinese food

Christmas dinner is great, in theory. But after an early morning of opening presents, its preparation often proves daunting.

Whether you celebrate the holiday or not, for some people the thought of toiling away in the kitchen holds no appeal.

There’s nothing wrong with going out to eat on Dec. 25. And while many major restaurant chains are closed, a surprising number plan to be open (assuming staffing issues don’t prevent that).

It’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm first. (And, of course, whether you choose to dine in depends on local restrictions and COVID levels.) But here’s a look at some of the places where you can find everything from a traditional turkey dinner to holiday buffalo wings.