NORTH CAROLINA -- For the fan of food, Thanksgiving is an ideal holiday. However, not everyone has the time and patience to prepare a Thanksgiving feast all on their own.
Luckily, we have compiled a list of restaurants that are opening their doors to guests this Thanksgiving
A surprising number of restaurants have opted to open on Thursday, but many do have altered hours. So, if you're unsure about the hours of your favorite place to dine, the best thing to do is call.
Applebee’s: Most locations open, but may close early
Bob Evans: Open until 8 p.m. at some locations, also providing Farmhouse Feast holiday meals for pick up
Bonefish Grill: Open, but closing early
Boston Market: Open but hours may vary, they’ll be serving a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
Buca di Beppo: Open, also providing “Thanksgiving Dinner to Go” meals for pick up
The Capital Grille: Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., will be serving a special Thanksgiving meal as well as items from their normal dinner menu
Cracker Barrel: Open but hours vary, also providing Heat n’ Serve holiday family meals for pick up
Denny’s: Open
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: Open until 8 p.m.
Golden Corral: Open but may be closing early, they’lll be serving traditional Thanksgiving foods as part of their buffet
Hooter's: Most locations will be open, hours may vary
IHOP: Most locations will be open but hours may vary, will be serving a roasted turkey dinner
K&W Cafeteria: Open 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. at most locations, call ahead to confirm hours
Macaroni Grill: Open but hours may vary
Maggiano’s: Open but hours may vary
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks: Open, will be serving traditional Thanksgiving food
McDonald’s: Most locations will be open
Ruby Tuesday: Most locations will be open, hours may vary
Ruth's Chris Steakhouse: Select locations will open at noon
Ryan's: Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and serving traditional Thanksgiving food
Shoney's: Open, call ahead for hours
Starbucks: Open, hours may vary
Ted’s Montana Grill: Some locations open
TGI Fridays: Most locations open, hours may vary
Waffle House: Open
(Information from sites including Offers.com, CountryLiving.com, GoodHouseKeeping.com, TheDailyMeal.com, and Womansday.com)