Evelyn Kanter ecoXplorer - fast food deals discounts

There are great meal deals at national fast food and fast casual chains every week, to help you stretch your strained budget.

Top deals and new menu items include Day of the Dozens at Krispy Kreme, $1 tacos at Taco John’s, the chance to win Dolly Parton merchandise at Cracker Barrel, new Pretzel Baconator at Wendy’s, O’Charleys new Southern Comfort menu additions, FREE pizza from Domino’s, new $7 deals and late nights at Pizza Hut, new menu items at Perkins, free fries at McDonald’s, and more.

We update this money-saving list several times a month, at the beginning and middle of each month, and in between when there is a noteworthy new offer, so you can save money on fast food deals and discounts and new menu items.

All the deals and new menu items we publish here are from the trade publication Restaurant News or the digital marketing agencies which contact ecoXplorer directly with information about their national restaurant chain clients.

Many of these deals, discounts and new menu items are for a limited time – but the chains rarely tell us exactly when that deal will expire, so check with your favorite destination or prepare to be disappointed.

Scroll down for on-going deals.

As that guy in the TV commercial says, arrive hungry, my friends. Or thirsty. Or both.

Krispy Kreme

It’s called Day of the Dozens. On 12/12, buy any dozen doughnuts and get a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for just $1 at participating locations.

The sweet deal is available in-shop, at the drive-thru or online for pick-up or deliver, but not available at grocery or convenience stores.

2023 Holiday Doughnuts

Enjoy three new “Elf”-inspired doughnuts, as well as the return of the popular and festive Santa Belly Doughnut — all available in a limited-edition “Elf”-themed dozen box.

Buddy Snow Globe Doughnut: Original Glazed Doughnut dipped in sugar cookie light blue icing and white sprinkles, topped with powdered sugary snow and a chocolate “Elf” piece.

Buddy Makes Breakfast Doughnut: Original Glazed Doughnut topped with cake batter spaghetti buttercreme, milk chocolate colorful candies, sprinkles and a maple drizzle.

Christmas Lights Doughnut: Original Glazed Doughnut dipped in rich chocolate icing, drizzled with green icing and topped with rainbow sprinkles and a chocolate “Elf” piece.

Santa Belly Doughnut: A Santa belly doughnut filled with Cookies & Kreme filling, dipped in red icing and decorated with Santa’s belt and belt buckle candy piece.

Taco John’s

For a limited time, the chain is offering a new $1 deal. It’s good every day, not just on Taco Tuesdays.

Starting Monday, November 6, buy one item and get another for just $1. The taco deal is available in-store, at the drive-thru, and through the Taco John’s mobile app.

Choose from one of these best-sellers as part of the “Buy One, Get One for $1” promotion:

Meat & Potato Burrito – Made with 100% American beef, Taco John’s signature Potato Olés®, nacho cheese, sour cream, lettuce and tomatoes all in a rolled-up into a flavorful burrito.
Super Burrito – It’s the hero you deserve. AA large flour tortilla filled with 100% American beef, refried beans, Taco John’s® signature mild sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, onions, and sour cream.
Taco Bravo® – It starts with a warm tortilla, smother it in refried beans, and wrap it around our traditional crispy beef taco.

The taco deal is available in-store, at the drive-thru, and through the Taco John’s mobile app.

Additionally, consider this deal on a Taco John’s gift card –

For every $25 in gift cards purchased in-store or online, buyers receive a $5 bonus card redeemable from Jan. 1 to Feb. 29, 2024.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

It is rare that we publish information of a celebrity endorsement with a restaurant chain, but beloved global superstar and philanthropist Dolly Parton is different.

She is the new face of the “Rewards That Rock,” campaign for the new Cracker Barrel Rewards program and Dolly’s new album, Rockstar. To celebrate the partnership, Cracker Barrel and Dolly are giving rewards members the chance to win one of 667 custom-designed Dolly Rockin’ chairs.

Themed after a beloved brand icon, the peg game, members of the program can earn Pegs, like points, on restaurant and retail purchases and redeem them for rewards*.

The program is free and easy to join and just for enrolling, members receive a complimentary appetizer. To sign up, visit any Cracker Barrel location, the Cracker Barrel app or CrackerBarrel.com.

Says Dolly – “Cracker Barrel and I have had a relationship for many years, and I am happy to say it continues with the launch of my new Rockstar album on Nov. 17 and Cracker Barrel’s Rewards That Rock campaign. They surely are giving you the Rockstar treatment!”

Rock Like Dolly Sweepstakes

Through Dec. 4, Cracker Barrel Rewards members can enter for a chance to win one of the Rockstar-inspired Dolly Rockin’ Chairs co-designed with Dolly Parton**. The limited-edition rocking chairs will be showcased on Cracker Barrel front porches nationwide for guests to experience firsthand just how rockin’ they are.

Rockstar Album and Dolly Rockin’ Chairs Available for Purchase in Cracker Barrel Stores

Guests have even more opportunities to Rock Like Dolly with a limited collection of Dolly merch including Dolly’s new Rockstar album, available now in stores and online.

And, starting Dec. 5, a limited number of Dolly Rockin’ Chairs will be available for purchase, while supplies last, at select locations and online at shop.crackerbarrel.com.

As the face of “Rewards That Rock,” Dolly is seen in ads that will run across platforms throughout the campaign. The spots showcase Dolly engaging in the Cracker Barrel Rewards experience set to an exclusive advance excerpt from her album’s title track, “Rockstar,” which can be viewed here.

Smashburger

Nov. 27-29 only, get a BOGO burger of your choice at Smashburger. Mix and match Classic & Bacon Smash, Single or Double burgers.

Use the code CYBERBOGO to get the buy-on-get-one-free deal. Online, or mention the deal to the cashier at checkout.

Wendy’s

For a limited time, get the new Pretzel Baconator, a new twist on a fan favorite.

Pretzel Baconator starts with a half-pound of fresh, never-frozen beef, topped with melty American cheese and six strips of Applewood smoked bacon and finished with ketchup and mayonnaise nestled between two warm pretzel buns.

As one of the most iconic hamburgers in fast food, the Baconator has earned a dedicated fanbase thanks to its bold, bacon-y goodness.

Wendy’s also has a few new menu additions – Loaded Nacho Cheeseburger, Loaded Nacho Chicken Sandwich, Queso Fries and two new English Muffin Sandwiches for breakfast.

Loaded Nacho Cheeseburger features the classic, fresh never frozen* square beef patty, crowned with melty cheese, roasted poblano queso, spicy corn and tortilla strips, topped with a spicy chipotle sauce, lettuce and tomato. It’s all packed into a towering jalapeño cheddar bun that packs a zesty taste.
For those who are ‘team chicken’, sub in a Loaded Nacho Chicken Sandwich for your game day.
Hot & Crispy Queso Fries that are anything BUT your average cheese fries. Topped with the same roasted poblano queso from the Loaded Nacho Sandwiches and shredded cheddar cheese.
English Muffin Sandwiches for breakfast are topped with a fresh-cracked egg, your choice of oven-baked Applewood Smoked bacon cooked daily (unlike the other guys…) or a savory grilled sausage patty and finished off with melted American cheese.

When ordering directly from the app online, you’ll rack up points to treat yourself all season long with Wendy’s Rewards.

O’Charley’s

For a limited time, enjoy the new Southern Comfort Specials Menu additions, which pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of the American South.

Highlights of the new menu include:

Pecan Chicken Tender Appetizer – O’Charley’s Famous Chicken Tenders with special pecan breading, served with our own smokey-sweet honey BBQ. $10.99. (Also available as an entrée with two sides for $14.49.)
Pimento Cheese Dip & Chips – Warm and creamy pimento cheese dip topped with diced jalapenos and served with warm tortilla chips. $8.99
Black & Bleu Caesar – Chopped Romaine and croutons tossed with Caesar dressing, topped with a 6-oz. blackened USDA Top Sirloin, Roma tomatoes, bacon, and bleu cheese crumbles. $17.99
Cedar Plank Salmon – Hand-cut 9-oz. Atlantic salmon filet is seasoned with lemon pepper and cooked and served on a cedar plank. Served with two sides. $20.99
Meatloaf Burger – Two smash burgers topped with sauteed peppers and onions, pepper Jack cheese and the chain’s special ketchup-y sauce. Served with French fries. $13.99
Country Style Steak – Seasoned, tenderized steak topped with Cajun mushrooms and onions and lots of brown gravy. Served with two sides. $15.99
Chicken Harvest Soup – It’s like chicken pot pie in a bowl. Lots of white-meat chicken in a velvety broth with carrots, celery, and noodles. $5.99
New Orleans Cajun Chicken Pasta – Cajun-seasoned grilled chicken breast with sautéed peppers and onions and parmesan cheese tossed with linguini in a cream sauce. $14.49
New Side! Green Beans – Southern-style green beans cooked to perfection, delivering a taste of tradition and comfort.
Half Pimento Cheese Sandwich + Chicken Harvest Soup – A new offering as part of our Lunch Pick 2 for $9.99. Includes fountain beverage or tea.

O’Charley’s is also offering four delicious new cocktails and two seasonal beverages as part of the new Southern Comforts menu:

Bourbon Smash Cocktail – Smooth Jim Beam combined with muddled mint leaves, zesty lemon, and just a touch of sweetness. $7.99
Merry Cranberry – A refreshing punchy cocktail that combines Crown Royal, cranberry juice, orange juice, and a hint of sweetness. $8.99
Angry Moon – This unexpected fusion marries the orange zest of Blue Moon with the crisp, apple-infused goodness of Angry Orchard Hard Cider. $6.99
Apple Jack – Savor the perfect blend of Jack Daniels, amaretto, a kick of Angry Orchard Hard Cider with a splash of simple syrup in this effervescent libation. $8.99
And, Angry Orchard Hard Cider ($5.00 12 oz.) and Samuel Adams Seasonal ($5.00 14 oz./$6.00 22 oz.)

Finish the meal with Salted Caramel Cheesecake, a creamy, classic cheesecake drizzled with caramel sauce and topped with candied pecans and a dash of salt for $8.99.

For more information, visit the O’Charley’s website at www.OCharleys.com.

Red Lobster

For a limited time, enjoy a variety of entrées with two seafood favorites on one plate as part of Red Lobster’s NEW Lobster & Shrimp Celebration.

The menu includes –

NEW Lobster & Shrimp Holiday Feast – Tender Maine lobster tail meat and shrimp in an orange-rosemary holiday sauce. Served with mashed potatoes, new Cheddar Bay Stuffing, and choice of one side.
NEW Lobster & Cheddar Bay-Stuffed Shrimp – A roasted Maine lobster tail paired with shrimp topped with a savory brioche, Cheddar Bay, bacon, and mushroom stuffing. Served with choice of two sides.
NEW Lobster & Shrimp Overboard – A roasted Maine lobster tail, lobster and shrimp linguini, and a grilled shrimp skewer. Served with choice of two sides.

Complement your meal with a side of new Cheddar Bay Stuffing – Red Lobster’s take on a holiday classic dish featuring savory brioche, Cheddar Bay, bacon, and mushroom.

Additionally, Red Lobster is offering new, limited-time seasonal cocktails (where permitted), including the festive new choices Snowglobe Sangria, Seaside S’mores Martini and Cinnamon Whiskey Sour.

Reminder that the chain’s popular limited time Ultimate Endless Shrimp promotion is now a full-time permanent addition to the menu, for just $20 all day every day.

Choose two shrimp choices to start, then keep the critters coming with additional shrimp selections until you are satisfied. Each Ultimate Endless Shrimp meal is accompanied by a choice of side and, of course, warm Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

Insider tip: avoid grabbing the extra biscuit to leave room for endless amounts of shrimp.

Garlic Shrimp Scampi – Hand-crafted garlic shrimp scampi, oven-broiled in a garlic butter sauce.
Coconut Shrimp – Tossed in flaky coconut and fried golden brown. Served with Red Lobster’s signature piña colada sauce.
Shrimp Linguini Alfredo – Tender shrimp in a creamy Alfredo sauce on a bed of linguini.
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp – Hand-breaded, butterflied and lightly fried. Served with cocktail sauce.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewer – Skewered shrimp with a butter garlic glaze. Served over rice.”

To earn points for dining, including through To Go and delivery orders, and redeem tasty rewards, sign up for Red Lobster’s free loyalty program, My Red Lobster Reward

BurgerFi

Children ages 12 and under now can enjoy a free kids meal on Mondays with the purchase of an adult meal at participating, exclusively for dine-in guests.

The Free Kids Meal is valid with any in-restaurant adult meal purchase. Adults can indulge in a wide range of premium BurgerFi offerings, including any premium BurgerFi burger, Chicken, VegeFi®, and Beyond Burger® options, complemented by regular-size Fresh-Cut Fries and a Coca-Cola Freestyle Beverage.

The Kids Eat Free menu includes the Single Burger or Cheeseburger, Hot Dog, Grilled Cheese, or Fried Chicken Tenders. Each meal includes a choice of a Natural Snack or Junior Fry as a side, accompanied by a Natural Juice or Coca-Cola Freestyle Beverage, and a custom BurgerFi activity sheet and crayons.

Established in 2011, BurgerFi is a chef-driven concept with responsibly sourced ingredients, including 100% All-Natural Angus Beef with no steroids, antibiotics, growth hormones, chemicals, or additives.

Also at BurgerFi – The chain also offers a premium VegeFi® Burger is made with a Quinoa + Veggie Blend burger, topped with White Cheddar, lettuce, tomato, Fi Sauce, and a vegan Multigrain Bun. The VegeFi® patty contains cheese. Fi Sauce contains Worcestershire Sauce.

For more information about BurgerFi or to find the nearest location, visit www.BurgerFi.com. Download the app for free fries on your first order

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

For a limited time, a seasonal fan favorite returns to the menu.

Brisket Chili cheese fries are a collaboration of savory, pit-smoked brisket chili, melted cheese and hand cut fries, for eat-in or take-out, as a menu item on its own or as a side dish.

Find it on the Dickey’s mobile app or website.

Olive Garden

For a limited time, the chain’s famous and popular Never Ending Pasta bowl returns for $13.99.

Get ready to loosen that belt buckle a couple of notches with unlimited servings of pasta, sauces and toppings plus soup or salad and breadsticks.

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers

The chain is unveiling its new-and-improved lineup of gourmet burgers along with new entrées, appetizers, beverages and more. Here’s a selection of the new menu additions – some of which are permanent and others only for a limited time.

Burgers

BBQ Burnt Ends ‘N Bacon Burger* – Available for a limited time and piled high with smoked burnt ends, crispy onion straws, Whiskey River® BBQ Sauce, melted cheddar, black-peppered bacon, pickles and mayo
Smashed Avocado ‘N Bacon – With freshly smashed avocado, hardwood-smoked bacon, melty Swiss, onion, lettuce, vine-ripened tomato and mayo
Burnin’ Love – The return of a fan-favorite back by popular demand, featuring fried jalapeño coins, house-made salsa, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, vine-ripened tomato and chipotle aioli, topped with a charred jalapeño

Appetizers & Entrées

Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts – Lightly fried and topped with grated Parmesan cheese
Tsunami Shrimp – Panko-breaded shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, served on a bed of Yukon Chips and finished with sesame seeds (available as an appetizer or entrée)
BBQ Burnt Ends Loaded Fries* – Red Robin’s signature Steak Fries loaded with smoked burnt ends, drizzled with house-made ranch and Whiskey River® BBQ Sauce with a cilantro garnish
Whiskey River® BBQ Ribs – A half rack of tender St. Louis-style pork ribs glazed with Whiskey River® BBQ Sauce. Served with coleslaw and choice of a Bottomless side

Desserts, Milkshakes & Beverages

Caramel Apple Pie Milkshake* – Creamy vanilla soft serve blended with milk, cinnamon streusel and apple pie filling. Topped with crumbles of cinnamon streusel and drizzled with caramel
Caramel Apple Lemonade* – The flavors of granny smith apple and spiced brown sugar paired with Minute Maid® lemonade
Casamigos Cadillac Margarita – Casamigos Blanco Tequila, agave, lime juice and a Grand Marnier® float
Golden Maker’s Highball – Maker’s Mark® Bourbon Whiskey with Sprite® and a splash of honey mango syrup
Old Fashioned – Angel’s Envy Bourbon, muddled orange, simple syrup, bitters and a maraschino cherry

Domino’s

When life gives you lemons, Domino’s gives you free pizza.

Through Feb. 11, 2024, the pizza chain offers a free medium two-topping pizza to customers to use whenever they need it most, such as if you burned dinner or your in-laws dropped by without notice.

Any Domino’s customer who places a qualifying online order can earn an Emergency Pizza and redeem it from their Domino’s Rewards account. Domino’s recently launched Domino’s Rewards

How to Earn and Redeem a Domino’s Emergency Pizza

Place a delivery order online, or a digital carryout order of $7.99 or more. Customers will automatically earn a Domino’s Emergency Pizza after the order goes through.
To claim their Domino’s Emergency Pizza, customers must sign into or join Domino’s Rewards within seven days.
They should then visit the “My Deals & Rewards” page under their Domino’s Rewards account to redeem their Emergency Pizza within 30 days.

To sign up for Domino’s Rewards, visit dominos.com/rewards. For more information about Domino’s Emergency Pizza program, visit dominos.com/emergencypizza.

Domino’s Emergency Pizzas are not valid for redemption on Oct. 31, Dec. 31 or Feb. 11.
A Handmade Pan Pizza may be redeemed for an additional charge.

Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut is launching a brand-new $7 Deal Lover’s Menu featuring multiple Hut favorites including pizza, pastas, Pizza Hut Melts™, breadsticks, desserts, and more.

Treat yourself to two or more items for $7 each, 7 days a week.

The $7 Deal Lover’s Menu features an assortment of 17 delicious options all for $7 each when ordering two or more, including the introduction of three NEW menu items: Roasted Garlic Cheese Sticks, Bacon Cheddar Cheese Sticks, and Chocolate Donut Bites.

Other items on the Deal Lover’s Menu include: a Medium one Topping Pizza, Meat Lover’s Melt, Pepperoni Lover’s Melt, Chicken Bacon Parm Melt, Buffalo Chicken Melt, 8-Piece Boneless Wings, Double Order of Breadsticks, Cheese Sticks, Chicken Alfredo Pasta, Italian Meats Pasta, Cheesy Alfredo Pasta, Veggie Pasta, Cinnabon® Mini Rolls and a PEPSI-COLA® 4-Pack.

The $7 Deal Lover’s Menu is available for dine-in, carryout and delivery at participating locations. Hut Rewards loyalty members can earn points for every dollar spent on food, any way they order – online, by phone or in-store – including when they order from the $7 Deal Lover’s menu.

Pizza Hut also announces late-night extended operating hours at thousands of locations nationwide.

Those locations will now stay open until midnight or later, with several restaurants even staying open as late as 2 a.m.

Late-night diners can indulge in the full menu for delivery or carryout past the stroke of midnight in select stores across the country.

To try the $7 Deal Lover’s Menu and to find your nearest participating location, visit www.pizzahut.com

Domino’s Pizza

The largest pizza company in the world has launched its newest menu item – Pepperoni Stuffed Cheesy Bread – across all franchise and corporate stores in the U.S.

Pepperoni Stuffed Cheesy Bread combines the best parts of pepperoni pizza into a savory snack.

Each eight-piece order of oven-baked breadsticks is stuffed with cheese and pepperoni. It is covered in a blend of cheese made with 100% real mozzarella and cheddar, and seasoned with a touch of garlic and Parmesan for a flavor-packed bite every single time.

Pepperoni Stuffed Cheesy Bread is included in Domino’s mix and match deal, where customers can choose any two or more menu items for $6.99 each. It joins Domino’s existing lineup of Stuffed Cheesy Bread, which launched in 2011 with the following varieties: Original, Spinach and Feta, and Bacon and Jalapeno.

To place an order or find the nearest Domino’s location, visit dominos.com.

Friendly’s

Through December, Friendly’s is adding new holiday-themed Sundaes and Fribbles:

Peppermint Stick Fribble

Blend of milk, vanilla syrup and peppermint stick ice cream, topped with a drizzle of hot fudge, whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Barking Pretzel Fribble

Combination of milk, vanilla syrup and barking pretzel ice cream, complemented by a tantalizing caramel drizzle, whipped cream and a cherry garnish.

Peppermint Stick Fudge Brownie Sundae

Double the delight with two scoops of peppermint stick ice cream, decadent hot fudge, brownie bites, chocolate sprinkles, a generous helping of whipped cream and a cherry to crown it all.

Barking Pretzel Sundae

Two scoops of barking pretzel ice cream, a shot of Swiss chocolate sauce, creamy peanut butter, brownie bites, a swirl of whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles and a cherry on top.

In addition to these sweet fall and winter sensations, Friendly’s is introducing a fun lineup of Seasonal Cone Head Sundaes and indulgent ice cream treats. Each month will feature a unique creation, including:

October – Fang the Vampire

Dive into a scoop of black raspberry ice cream adorned with two M&M’s eyes, candy corn fangs, a drizzle of hot fudge, a dollop of whipped cream and a peanut butter cup crown.

November – Tom the Turkey

Savor the rich flavors of Hunka Chunka PB Fudge ice cream, garnished with two Reese’s Pieces, a candy corn beak, a generous serving of whipped cream and a peanut butter cup tail and feathers.

December – Rudy the Reindeer

Embark on a festive journey with chopped chocolate-covered pretzels, a scoop of Chocolate ice cream, two whole chocolate-covered pretzels, a mound of whipped cream, two M&M’s eyes and a cherry nose.

New Menu Items for the Holiday Season

Huddle House

Through Jan 2, 2024, the chain is is offering Prime Rib Tips menu items throughout the day.

For breakfast, try the Prime Rib Tips Omelet, loaded with prime rib tips, Swiss cheese, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, and served with crispy hashbrowns or homestyle grits and Texas toast or a buttery biscuit. Or choose the Prime Rib Tips Stuffed Hashbrowns, a hearty plateful of prime rib tips, two scrambled eggs, melted American cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and grilled onions stuffed between layers of crispy golden hashbrowns and served with Texas toast or a buttery biscuit.

For lunch or dinner, the Prime Rib Tips Sandwich is piled high with prime rib tips on a brioche bun and topped with Swiss cheese, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, and served with a savory au jus and lightly salted fries. Or select the Prime Rib Tips Dinner, featuring prime rib tips, sautéed mushrooms and grilled onions with a savory au jus sauce and served with two dinner sides and choice of Texas toast or a buttery biscuit.

For more information on Huddle House’s menu and specials, visit HuddleHouse.com.

Perkins

Through the holiday season, the chain is adding Prime Rib dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Start the day with the new Cinnamon Roll French Toast Platter, a breakfast option featuring the Perkins cinnamon roll, sliced and dipped in signature French Toast batter, two eggs, two Applewood smoked bacon strips or two sausage links.

Or, choose the new Prime Rib Benedict, featuring house-cut prime rib slices with sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, and creamy hollandaise with two basted eggs atop an English muffin. Or Prime Rib & Eggs, where a generous 10 oz. (weight may vary) house-cut prime rib is served au jus alongside two eggs, along with a choice of hash browns or breakfast potatoes, and three pancakes, Mammoth Muffin® or buttered toast.

For lunch or dinner, the Prime Rib Dinner features a 10 oz. (weight may vary) house-cut Prime Rib is served au jus with a -fresh salad and new loaded mashed potatoes. Or, the Prime Rib Parmesan Griller, a house-cut prime rib sliced and served on parmesan-crusted sourdough bread with caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and herb garlic aioli. Served au jus with a choice of fries or soup.

Perkins has not provided information on when this holiday Prime Rib menu addition ends, so check with your favorite location.

As a sweet finish to your holiday meal, Perkins is adding the OREO® Cookie Silk Pie to their annual Holiday Bake Shop, which includes layers of chocolate ganache and OREO® cookie vanilla silk, topped with real whipped cream and OREO® cookies and served in a chocolate graham cracker crust.

You can can reserve Perkins pies, including Pumpkin Pie, Homestyle Apple Pie, Chocolate French Silk Pie, and an assortment of other pies and treats, in advance of holiday celebrations at https://www.perkinsrestaurants.com/order/

Perkins has not provided information on when this holiday Prime Rib menu addition ends, so check with your favorite location.

Tim Hortons

The holiday menu features a selection of hot and cold beverages inspired by three indulgent holiday flavors – Peppermint Mocha, Brown Butter Caramel, and Gingerbread – plus three delicious Holiday Baked Goods that are the perfect pairing with any holiday beverage.

Through Nov. 28, get a $1 medium hot or iced lattes, including the holiday flavors, when ordering through the app.

Tim Hortons holiday menu includes:

Peppermint Mocha Iced Capp®: a frozen, rich, fusion of chocolate and peppermint flavor, finished off with whipped topping and sprinkled with crunchy Peppermint Bark. Flavor also available as a latte, iced latte, and Cold Brew. Skipping the coffee? Peppermint Hot Chocolate will be offered as a caffeine-free option.

Brown Butter Caramel Cold Brew: a perfect mix of sweet & salty brown butter flavors that combine with the indulgent velvety smoothness of our caramel. Also available as a hot or iced latte.

Peppermint Timbits: our signature Chocolate Cake Glazed Timbits with a Peppermint topping.

Gingerbread Oat Milk Latte: a blend of Gingerbread flavor, creamy Chobani Oatmilk, and a dusting of cinnamon topping. Also available as an iced latte and Cold Brew. Available Nov. 15.

Holiday Tree Donut: a tree-shaped yeast donut filled with venetian cream and topped with green fondant and festive nonpareils. Available Nov. 15.

Hot Cocoa Crumble Muffin: a rich chocolate muffin filled with marshmallow and topped with chocolate chips. Available Nov. 15.

McDonald’s

Reminder that fry fans can get FREE medium fries with any purchase of $1 or more on Fridays via the McDonald’s app.

The offer is valid only on Fridays, and only if you order via the Mobile Order & Pay option. So if you haven’t already downloaded the McDonald’s app, this would be a good time to do it.

Free Fries Friday is every Friday through the rest of 2023.

Papa Johns

For limited time, the newest menu item is Garlic Epic Stuffed Crust pizza, with garlic goodness in three places – in the crust, on the crust, and in a cup with a Special Garlic Dipping Sauce.

It is available for just $13.99 for a one-topping pizza.

Enjoy a spicy spin on this new favorite with the Spicy Garlic Epic Stuffed Crust, featuring a sprinkle of chili flakes and a layer of the brand’s signature Spicy Garlic Sauce.

This is the third iteration of Papa Johns stuffed crust pizza, following cheese and pepperoni varieties. The latest innovation boasts the original, six-ingredient dough hand-stuffed to order with garlic seasoned cheese, coated with a garlic parmesan sauce and dusted with garlic-parmesan seasoning.

Topped with your choice of toppings, after baking the pizza is finished with even more garlic parmesan sauce and served with a cup of our signature Special Garlic Sauce.

More information about Papa Johns and its Garlic Epic Stuffed Crust can be found at papajohns.com.

Firehouse Subs

For a limited time at participating locations only, get a Smokin’ Triple Stack Sub.

The chain is promoting it as one of its meatiest subs ever, with USDA Choice, slow-smoked beef brisket, smoked turkey breast, and Virginia honey ham topped with melted cheddar, sweet & tangy slaw, barbecue sauce and mayo on a toasted sub roll.

Fans can order the Smokin’ Triple Stack on the Firehouse Subs mobile app to earn points for future visits or visit FirehouseSubs.com to find their nearest location. Firehouse Loyalty members can redeem points for rewards like free subs and are the first to learn about promotions and new menu items.

Firehouse Subs is donating a portion of every purchase to benefit the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation^®, which provides lifesaving equipment, training and funding to first responders and public safety organizations.

To date, the Foundation has provided more than $75 million in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Besides eating more subs, guests can also support their local communities through the Foundation by rounding up at the register, donating spare change and purchasing a recycled, five-gallon pickle bucket for a $3 donation.

IHOP

For a limited time, IHOPPY Hour is back, with $6 full meals and $4 Snacks and Sides from 3pm to 10pm daily (and later at some locations). Some items are for dine-in only, others for take-out, so know before you go.

The IHOPPY Menu is as follows:

Everyday $6 or ($7 or $8 in some markets) Meals

Chicken & Pancakes: Four crispy chicken breast strips with three buttermilk pancakes. Served with choice of dipping sauce.
Classic Steakburger: Black Angus beef Steakburger with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onions, pickles and IHOP Sauce. Served with a side of French fries, onion rings, or 2 buttermilk pancakes.
Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Sandwich: Crispy chicken breast, American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles and IHOP Sauce. Served with a side of French fries, onion rings, or 2 buttermilk pancakes.
BLT Sandwich: Hickory-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato & mayo on toasted white bread. Served with a side of French fries, onion rings or 2 buttermilk pancakes.
Quick 2-Egg Breakfast: Two eggs, hash browns, 2 bacon strips or 2 pork sausage links & toast.
Ham & Cheese Omelette: Diced ham, shredded Jack & cheddar cheese, and white cheese sauce. Served with 3 buttermilk pancakes.
Classic Breakfast Burrito or Bowl: Scrambled eggs, choice of bacon pieces or diced sausage, shredded Jack & Cheddar & hash browns. Served with a side of our salsa.

Everyday $4 Deals

Mozza Sticks: Six crispy Mozzarella cheese sticks served with marinara.
French Fries & Onion Rings Sampler: A generous helping of onion rings and French fries served with IHOP Sauce.
Our Original French Toast: Four triangles topped with real whipped butter & dusted with powdered sugar.
Crispy Chicken Strips: 3 crispy chicken strips in Original style, or Frank’s RedHot Buffalo sauce or tangy BBQ sauce. Served with choice of dipping sauce.
Pancake Sundae: 2 buttermilk pancakes topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, rainbow sprinkles & whipped topping. This one’s dine-in only.

Image: Chili’s

Chili’s

For a limited time, get three items for just $10.99.

The 3 For Me promotion returns after a there year hiatus with offers unbeatable value for a bottomless drink, bottomless chips and salsa, a cheeseburger and fries.

Upgrade with Crispy Chicken Crispers or a 6 oz. Classic Sirloin for $13.99 and $15.99, respectively. Spike or sweeten the meal with a Classic Margarita or slice of Cheesecake for just $2.49 per item.

Available all day, every day during restaurant hours for dine-in, to-go or delivery,

The meal deal is being promoted with a “3 for Me” music remix in collaboration with Grammy-nominated R&B Artist, Brian McKnight, with a new tune that is a reimagination of one of the singer’s most iconic ballads, “Back at One,” playfully breaking down how diners can create a custom, budget-friendly feast.

It’s being used in Chili’s TV commercials, on the chain’s YouTube channel and social media accounts.

KFC

For a limited time, Kentucky Fried Chicken Wraps will be available at participating restaurants nationwide, at a bargain price of 2 for $5.

After a successful test in Atlanta in 2022, the new KFC Wraps will finally be available to everyone.

There are two options –

The Classic Chicken Wrap, a hand-breaded Extra Crispy™ Tender, crunchy pickles and creamy mayo, wrapped up in a warm tortilla
The Spicy Slaw Chicken Wrap covers an Extra Crispy™ Tender in a flavorful mix of KFC coleslaw, spicy sauce and crispy pickles

Pizza Hut

For a limited time, the chain’s famous 16” New York-style pizza, “The Big New Yorker,” returns to its menu after its initial launch 24 years ago.

The iconic pizza is available at participating Pizza Hut restaurants nationwide.

The Big New Yorker is inspired by the spirit of New York with an XL pizza that is as big and bold as the city that never sleeps.

Each 16″ pizza features six oversized, foldable slices with crispy crust and bold flavors including sweet marinara sauce and Parmesan oregano seasoning on top to mimic an authentic New York pizzeria build.

One order of The Big New Yorker extra-large pizza comes with double pepperoni, or one choose-your-own topping for a price starting at $13.99. Orders can be customized with extra toppings or extra cheese for an additional charge.

The New York style pizza was first introduced in 1999. Since being retired from the menu, there have been numerous requests to bring the pizza back on menus. Click here to find your nearest participating Pizza Hut location.

The chain also recently introduced a line of Oven-Baked Pastas, with premium ingredients and savory sauces, priced at $8.99 for one or double up with “Family Pasta Pairs,” any two recipes starting at $13.99.

All Oven-Baked Pastas include breadsticks or garlic bread, where available- in case of “luckily-I-have-leftover-sauce” cleanups, come in four distinct recipes that cater to any flavor preference and are finished with a new parmesan oregano topping:

Chicken Alfredo: You can’t go wrong with this classic combination of NEW creamy Alfredo sauce, grilled chicken, and oven-baked cheese.
Italian Meats: Fill up on this savory new recipe that’s packed with sweet tomato sauce, pepperoni, Italian sausage and of course, cheese.
Cheesy Alfredo: A cheese lover’s dream featuring a NEW creamy Alfredo sauce and two layers of cheese with baked-fresh parmesan on top.
Veggie: A flavorful combo of sweet tomato sauce, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, black olives and oven-baked cheese.

Ongoing Deals & Discounts

Bob Evans Restaurants

Find more than 30 lunch and dinner combinations for $8.99 or less. Founder, Bob Evans, believed in the importance of family values, like eating meals together, and always worked to support the changing needs of the American family.

According to recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, grocery prices are up more than 8% from this same time last year, due to rising inflation, which has been consistently leading consumers to look for affordable and convenient meal options.

Farm-fresh meals under the “American Values” include Pick 2 Lunch Combos, start at $6.99, and Dinner Bell Plates, start as low as $7.99. These prices are offered every day and are not a limited-time offer.

Carl’s Jr. & Hardee’s

Join the new rewards program to get your choice of a free Western Bacon Cheeseburger, Famous Star, or Hand-Breaded Chicken Sandwich.

Domino’s Pizza

The Mix & Match Deal will get you and two or more items on its Mix & Match menu for $5.99. That includes some sticks and medium pizzas options.

Any combo with three-topping pizzas and Dips & Twists will run you $8.

Friendly’s

Join the Friendly’s Sweet Rewards Club and you’ll get a free medium sundae.

Hooters

Make a $30 purchase, and you’ll get $10 off with the code “GET10.” Place an order for $50, and you’ll wind up with $15 off when you use the code “GET15.”

That’s all there is – there’s no “GET20.”

Olive Garden

The pasta chain is now offering alcohol delivery with $15 bottles of wine and $10 six-packs. You have to order food to get alcohol, and the deal is only available where local laws permit.

Popeyes

Popeyes is offering free contactless delivery through its app with a minimum $20 order.

Quiznos

Get four meals for $29.99. The family meal comes with four 8-inch subs, four bags of chips, and four cookies. Use the code “8026.”

Rubio’s Coastal Grill

Place an order directly through the Rubio’s app or Rubios.com to get free delivery on any order of at least $20.

This list of great deals at national chains is updated at the beginning and middle of each month.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are from the restaurant or fast food chain.

ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter is a journalist with 20+ years of experience as a newspaper and magazine writer, radio & TV news producer & reporter, and author of guidebooks and smartphone apps – all focusing on travel, automotive, the environment and your rights as a consumer.

ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter currently serves as President of the International Motor Press Assn. (IMPA) and is a former Board Member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Contact me at evelyn@ecoxplorer.com.