Your 2026 Guide to 7 Restaurants Open Christmas Day Tulsa OK
- Mar 9
- 12 min read
The presents are unwrapped, the family is gathered, and the last thing anyone wants to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Finding restaurants open Christmas Day in Tulsa, OK, can feel like a stressful holiday task, but planning ahead transforms the day from a chore into a true celebration. This guide is your key to securing a memorable Christmas meal without the hassle or the cleanup.
We've done the work for you, verifying which establishments are planning to welcome guests on December 25th. Our list covers the best options, from upscale dining rooms perfect for a special occasion to reliable all-day diners for a casual and comforting meal.
Whether you're craving a fine-dining steak dinner, a festive Brazilian churrasco experience, or just a simple, hearty breakfast to start your holiday, you'll find it here. Each entry details essential information like hours, reservation details, cuisine type, and family-friendliness, so you can easily compare options. Get ready to find the perfect spot, book your table, and enjoy a genuinely relaxing Christmas with your loved ones.
1. The Eatery at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa (Catoosa)
For those searching for a dependable and casual dining spot, The Eatery at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa in Catoosa is a solid choice. Located just east of Tulsa, its consistent holiday service makes it a reliable destination when many other restaurants are closed. The casino has a strong history of offering Christmas Day dining, publicly promoting a special feast for 2025, which gives diners peace of mind when making holiday plans.
This venue is particularly well-suited for families and groups with diverse tastes. Its all-day American menu features approachable, kid-friendly options alongside classic comfort foods, ensuring there’s something for everyone. While the atmosphere is lively due to the casino setting, it provides a festive, high-energy backdrop for a holiday meal.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The real advantage of choosing The Eatery is the built-in flexibility. If your group's plans change or the wait is longer than expected, the Hard Rock property offers several other food and beverage outlets. You can find quick bites at the food court, grab a coffee and pastry at the bakery, or even opt for in-room dining if you are staying at the hotel. This makes it one of the most versatile restaurants open Christmas Day near Tulsa, OK.
Cuisine Type: All-Day American, Casual
Price Range: $$ (Moderate)
Family-Friendly: Yes, a good option for mixed-age groups.
Location & Access: Easy access directly off I-44 with abundant free parking in the attached garage.
Holiday Menu: Often features a special Christmas Day feast or buffet. Check the website closer to the holiday for the specific menu and pricing.
Reservations: While walk-ins are welcome, calling ahead or checking for reservation options is recommended for large groups on a major holiday.
2. Chamber Restaurant at Tulsa Club Hotel (Curio Collection by Hilton), Downtown
For a more refined and centrally located holiday dining experience, Chamber Restaurant inside the historic Tulsa Club Hotel offers a polished option in the heart of downtown's Deco District. Its status as a hotel restaurant gives it a high probability of being open for major holidays, and local coverage has previously confirmed its Christmas Day service for both daytime and evening meals. This makes it an ideal choice for those wanting to pair their meal with a stroll to see downtown holiday lights or attend an event at the nearby BOK Center or PAC.
The modern American tavern-style menu is sophisticated yet approachable, providing a comfortable setting for couples, families, or visitors staying downtown. The art-deco architecture of the hotel adds a touch of historic elegance to the festive atmosphere, elevating a simple meal into a memorable occasion. The availability of private dining spaces also makes it a strong contender for larger family gatherings or groups seeking a more intimate celebration.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The primary appeal of Chamber is its elegant ambiance combined with a prime, walkable downtown location. However, this popularity means that holiday seating can be extremely limited. Early reservations are not just recommended, they are practically essential. Be aware that like many restaurants, they may operate with a reduced or special prix-fixe menu on Christmas Day to ensure quality service during a busy period.
Cuisine Type: Modern American, Tavern
Price Range: $$$ (Upscale)
Family-Friendly: Yes, but best suited for families with older children or those comfortable in a more formal setting.
Location & Access: Located in the Tulsa Club Hotel downtown. Metered street parking and nearby paid lots are the main options.
Holiday Menu: Often features a special holiday menu or a prix-fixe selection. It is critical to check the hotel's dining page or call for specifics.
Reservations: Highly recommended. Booking well in advance through their website or by phone is the best way to secure a table.
3. Texas de Brazil – Tulsa (Woodland Hills Mall)
For an elevated and festive dining experience, Texas de Brazil offers a memorable, all-you-can-eat churrascaria meal perfect for a special Christmas Day gathering. The national chain has a reliable history of opening on major holidays, and its corporate holiday page consistently lists Christmas Day among its extended hours. This makes it a dependable choice for those looking to turn their holiday meal into a celebratory event. The Tulsa location near Woodland Hills Mall combines this consistency with a vibrant, upscale atmosphere.
The fixed-price format simplifies group dining, allowing each guest to enjoy continuous tableside service of various grilled meats, from picanha to lamb chops. This is complemented by an extensive gourmet salad area featuring over 50 items, including artisan cheeses, cured meats, and hot side dishes. While the experience is centered on meat, the salad bar provides plenty of options for varied dietary preferences, though it's less ideal for light eaters given the pricing model.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The biggest advantage of Texas de Brazil is its special-occasion feel combined with predictable, all-inclusive pricing. Because of its popularity, making reservations well in advance through their website is crucial, especially for Christmas Day. The restaurant's location in a busy retail area means parking can be competitive, so arriving a few minutes early is a good idea. For those who prefer to celebrate at home, it also offers excellent to-go and catering packages, bringing the churrasco experience to your own table, which is a key reason it's one of the top restaurants open Christmas Day Tulsa OK.
Cuisine Type: Brazilian-American Churrascaria (Steakhouse)
Price Range: $$$ (Expensive)
Family-Friendly: Yes, but the higher price point and upscale setting may be better suited for older children and adults.
Location & Access: Located near Woodland Hills Mall with ample surface lot parking, though it can get crowded during the holidays.
Holiday Menu: Typically serves its standard, all-you-can-eat dinner menu all day on Christmas. Check the website for any special holiday features.
Reservations: Highly recommended. Online reservations are the easiest way to secure a spot for the holiday.
Website: Texas de Brazil Holiday Hours
4. Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Tulsa (at River Spirit Casino Resort)
For a truly elegant and classic holiday dinner, Ruth’s Chris Steak House inside the River Spirit Casino Resort offers a premier fine-dining experience. This option is perfect for those who want to celebrate Christmas Day with an upscale meal without the stress of cooking and cleanup. The restaurant is renowned for its sizzling USDA Prime steaks, sophisticated ambiance, and professional service, making it a top-tier choice for a special occasion.
The national brand often promotes holiday service, and the Tulsa location's integration with the River Spirit Resort website allows for convenient online reservations. This white-tablecloth setting provides a refined atmosphere ideal for couples or families with older children looking for a memorable Christmas feast. Being located within a major resort also adds a layer of festive energy and provides other entertainment options before or after your meal.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The biggest advantage of Ruth’s Chris is the guarantee of a high-quality, celebratory meal. Because of its premium reputation and holiday demand, booking a table well in advance is critical. The bar area can sometimes accommodate last-minute diners or couples without a reservation, but this is never a guarantee on a major holiday like Christmas. Confirming the specific Christmas Day hours for the Tulsa location is also a wise step, as they can vary. This is one of the most distinguished restaurants open Christmas Day in Tulsa, OK for a formal celebration.
Cuisine Type: Fine-Dining Steakhouse
Price Range: $$$$ (Premium)
Family-Friendly: Best suited for adults or families with older, well-behaved children.
Location & Access: Located inside River Spirit Casino Resort with ample free parking in the resort’s garage.
Holiday Menu: Typically serves its full dinner menu, but check for any special holiday prix-fixe options.
Reservations: Highly recommended. Use the online reservation system on the River Spirit website or call directly to secure your spot, especially for larger parties.
5. Waffle House (multiple Tulsa locations)
For ultimate reliability and a no-fuss holiday meal, Waffle House stands as an iconic and dependable choice. The chain is famous for its 24/7/365 operational model, making its multiple Tulsa locations a guaranteed spot for a meal on Christmas Day. Whether it's for an early breakfast before the festivities begin or a late-night bite after a long day with family, Waffle House provides a consistently available option when nearly everything else is closed.
This classic American diner is perfect for those who crave simplicity and speed. The menu is straightforward, budget-friendly, and filled with comforting breakfast staples served all day, like their signature waffles, hash browns, and classic egg plates. While it lacks the formal atmosphere of a traditional holiday dinner, its lively, unpretentious environment offers a unique and memorable Christmas experience for many families and individuals.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The primary advantage of Waffle House is its "always open" promise, which removes the stress of planning and making reservations. However, its popularity on major holidays means you should be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak breakfast hours on Christmas morning. Patience is key, as seating is first-come, first-served. With several locations scattered across the Tulsa metro, you can use the location finder on their website to find the one nearest to you, making it one of the most accessible restaurants open Christmas Day Tulsa, OK.
Cuisine Type: All-Day American Diner, Breakfast
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Family-Friendly: Yes, very casual and accommodating for all ages.
Location & Access: Multiple locations throughout Tulsa and surrounding suburbs, typically with dedicated parking lots.
Holiday Menu: Serves its standard menu. No special holiday dishes are offered, providing consistency and familiar favorites.
Reservations: Not accepted. All seating is on a walk-in basis.
Website: Waffle House Locations
6. Denny’s (multiple Tulsa locations)
For a no-fuss, dependably open holiday meal, Denny’s stands out as a classic choice across Tulsa. This national chain has a long-standing reputation for being open 24/7, including major holidays like Christmas. It provides a simple, familiar sit-down dining experience when nearly everything else is closed, making it a go-to for families, travelers, and anyone seeking straightforward comfort food.
The appeal of Denny’s lies in its broad menu and casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether your group is craving pancakes for dinner or a traditional turkey meal, the all-day breakfast and classic American lunch and dinner options cater to a wide range of preferences and ages. With several locations spread throughout the Tulsa metro, it's a convenient and accessible option no matter where you are in the city.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The primary benefit of choosing Denny's on Christmas Day is its accessibility and consistency. No reservations are needed, and the menu is a familiar comfort to many. However, be prepared for potential crowds, as it is one of the few widely known restaurants open Christmas Day in Tulsa, OK. Holiday staffing can sometimes lead to longer wait times, so patience is key. It's always a good idea to call your nearest location just to confirm their specific hours for the day.
Cuisine Type: American Diner, All-Day Breakfast
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Family-Friendly: Yes, very suitable for children and picky eaters.
Location & Access: Multiple locations across Tulsa, typically with ample free parking.
Holiday Menu: Usually offers its standard full menu, but some locations may feature seasonal specials like a traditional turkey dinner.
Reservations: Not accepted; walk-in only. Expect a wait during peak holiday hours.
Website: Denny’s
7. IHOP (select Tulsa locations)
For families seeking a classic, no-fuss Christmas morning breakfast or a casual holiday meal, IHOP stands out as a dependable choice. While not every location is guaranteed to be open, many IHOP franchises across Tulsa have a history of operating on Christmas Day, albeit often with adjusted hours. This makes it a go-to for those who want a familiar menu without the formality of a traditional holiday dinner.
The broad appeal of its all-day breakfast menu makes IHOP particularly suitable for groups with kids or picky eaters. From festive-themed pancakes to omelets and burgers, the extensive selection ensures everyone can find something they enjoy. The casual, diner-style atmosphere provides a low-stress environment for a relaxed holiday get-together, a welcome alternative to more crowded and formal dining rooms.
Key Details & Quick Tips
The most critical step when considering IHOP for your Christmas meal is to confirm hours with your specific location. Since most are independently owned franchises, holiday hours can vary significantly. Calling ahead a day or two before Christmas is the best way to avoid any last-minute surprises. This advance planning is essential for anyone looking for reliable restaurants open Christmas Day in Tulsa, OK. Many locations also offer online ordering for takeout, which can be a great backup plan.
Cuisine Type: All-Day American, Breakfast
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Family-Friendly: Yes, very kid-friendly with a dedicated children's menu.
Location & Access: Multiple locations throughout the Tulsa metro area, typically with ample free parking.
Holiday Menu: Standard menu is usually available; some locations may offer seasonal pancake specials.
Reservations: Reservations are not typically accepted. Some locations use an online waitlist system, so check the website or app before you go to potentially save time.
Website: IHOP
7 Tulsa Restaurants Open on Christmas — Quick Comparison
Option | 🔄 Implementation complexity | ⚡ Resource requirements & speed | ⭐ Expected outcome / quality | 📊 Ideal use case | 💡 Key advantages / tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Eatery at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa (Catoosa) | Low — standard full‑service restaurant; walk‑ins and reservations | Moderate — hotel staffing; ample parking; easy I‑44 access | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — reliable, casual holiday service | Families and mixed‑age groups seeking convenient holiday meal | Multiple on‑property backups; expect casino noise; reserve for peak times |
Chamber Restaurant at Tulsa Club Hotel (Downtown) | Medium — hotel tavern with private‑dining capabilities; reservations advised | Moderate — downtown operations; limited holiday seating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — polished, hotel‑level dining | Downtown visitors, refined holiday dinners, small private events | Walkable to downtown activities; menu may be reduced—book early |
Texas de Brazil – Tulsa (Woodland Hills Mall) | Medium‑High — continuous tableside service; fixed‑price format | High — more staff for rodízio service; premium cost | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — festive, consistent special‑occasion experience | Large groups or celebrations seeking abundant, shareable dining | Predictable pricing for groups; books quickly on holidays |
Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Tulsa (River Spirit Casino) | Medium — fine‑dining service; reservation recommended | High — premium ingredients, extensive wine program | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — elegant, high‑quality holiday dinner | Special occasions, couples, upscale holiday meals | White‑tablecloth experience; book well in advance and verify hours |
Waffle House (multiple Tulsa locations) | Low — 24/7 walk‑in diner model | Low — minimal planning; rapid service | ⭐⭐⭐ — basic but highly reliable service availability | Last‑minute breakfast or late‑night after family gatherings | Open 365 days in normal conditions; expect crowds and waits |
Denny’s (multiple Tulsa locations) | Low — national sit‑down chain; walk‑ins typical | Low — multiple locations; family‑friendly staffing | ⭐⭐⭐ — familiar comfort food and dependable service | Families seeking no‑frills holiday meal with varied menu | Historically open on Dec 25; hours and waits vary by franchise |
IHOP (select Tulsa locations) | Low‑Medium — franchise‑dependent hours; confirm ahead | Low — breakfast‑focused operations; some online waitlists | ⭐⭐⭐ — good breakfast/brunch for families and picky eaters | Breakfast‑oriented families or casual holiday brunches | Confirm individual location hours; expect morning crowds |
Making Your Christmas Dining Plans a Success
Finding the perfect place to share a meal on December 25th doesn't have to be a source of holiday stress. With this detailed guide to restaurants open Christmas Day Tulsa OK, you have a solid foundation for planning a memorable and delicious holiday outing, whether you're seeking an elegant multi-course dinner or a simple, comforting breakfast. The options range from the upscale ambiance of Chamber Restaurant and Ruth’s Chris Steak House to the reliable and welcoming doors of Waffle House and Denny's, ensuring there’s a fit for every taste, budget, and group size.
The most critical takeaway is the importance of timely preparation. Part of ensuring your holiday dining plans are a success and stress-free is general preparation, including knowing how many days until Christmas to manage all aspects of your celebration. This forward-thinking approach is essential when it comes to booking your meal.
Finalizing Your Restaurant Choice
To make the best decision for your holiday, consider these final action steps based on your preference:
For Fine Dining & Popular Chains (Texas de Brazil, Ruth’s Chris, Chamber): Your immediate next step is to make a reservation. These venues are in high demand and often book solid weeks, if not a month or more, before Christmas. Use the direct booking links provided in this article or call them today. Also, confirm if they are offering a special prix-fixe holiday menu, as this can affect both selection and price.
For Casual Diners & 24/7 Chains (Waffle House, Denny’s, IHOP): While you can't book a table, you can still plan strategically. Decide on a specific location and call them the week of Christmas to confirm their holiday hours. To avoid long waits, aim for off-peak times, such as an early breakfast before 9 AM or a later lunch after 2 PM.
For Casino Dining (The Eatery, Ruth’s Chris): Remember to factor in the lively casino environment. This can add a festive, high-energy buzz to your meal, but it's also a consideration if you're seeking a quiet, intimate setting. Check the specific restaurant’s policy on age restrictions if dining with younger family members.
No matter where you choose to dine, a quick confirmation call a few days before Christmas is always a smart move. This simple step can prevent any last-minute surprises and guarantees that the restaurants open Christmas Day Tulsa OK that you've selected will be ready to welcome you. By acting now, you can cross one major item off your holiday to-do list and look forward to a relaxing, enjoyable meal with loved ones.
After securing your dining reservations, consider extending your holiday outing by exploring the unique local shops and festive atmosphere at The Ten District in nearby Jenks. This vibrant area offers a wonderful opportunity to walk off your meal, find last-minute gifts, and connect with the community spirit that makes the Tulsa region special. Plan your visit at The Ten District to complete your perfect Christmas Day experience.
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