As New Year’s Day 2026 approaches, many people find themselves balancing the desire for a fresh start with the need for convenient food and drinks. While some may rise early for a walk or reflection, others will seek out their favorite coffee and meals without the hassle of cooking. Fortunately, numerous popular chains will be open on January 1, although specific hours may vary by location.
Major Coffee Chains Ready for Business
For those who cannot start their day without coffee, major chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ are expected to operate. Starbucks emphasizes that their locations do not adhere to a universal schedule, stating on their website, “Starbucks does not have fixed operating hours for all locations; each branch follows its own schedule based on location, customer demand, and other factors.” Some stores may open as early as 5 a.m. or as late as 7 a.m., so checking local hours through the app is advisable.
Dunkin’ is also set to welcome customers on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, providing a perfect opportunity for families to grab a box of donuts. Meanwhile, Caribou Coffee is likely to have reduced operating hours; for instance, the branch at 4745 Cedar Avenue South in Minneapolis plans to open at 5:30 a.m. and close by 6 p.m.
Fast Food Favorites Open on New Year’s Day
Fast food chains are also preparing to serve customers on this holiday. McDonald’s typically maintains standard hours, but franchise owners may adjust timings. Many locations generally operate between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., while specific locations, like Burger King on 6th Avenue in Los Angeles, may open later, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
On the West Coast, In-N-Out is known for its late-night hours, usually operating from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., though some locations may close earlier. Arby’s will also be available, with hours typically ranging from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Other chains such as Wendy’s and White Castle are expected to remain open as well.
For those craving fried chicken, Chick-fil-A will be open on New Year’s Day, as this holiday does not fall on a Sunday. It is recommended to confirm local hours, as they may vary. KFC will also be serving its popular menu items, and some locations may even offer promotional deals to entice customers.
Pizza lovers can opt for Domino’s, where most locations are expected to operate, although some may close early. Chipotle is scheduled to open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., catering to those who prefer a later start. Additionally, Boston Market will provide rotisserie meals, with specific hours differing by location.
For those who prefer a sit-down meal, Applebee’s is expected to operate from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Breakfast enthusiasts can find relief at IHOP, which confirmed via social media that they will be open on New Year’s Day, with hours varying by location.
As individuals prepare to ring in the New Year, these familiar chains offer a blend of convenience and comfort for those seeking a quick meal or a caffeine boost. It is recommended to check local branches for precise operating hours to ensure a smooth start to the year.
