This article was first published by MileHighontheCheap.com.
Whether they've been naughty or nice, diners can cross a delicious, stress-free meal off their Christmas wish list. Several area restaurants, both chains and independents will be open Christmas Day. If you know of any we have missed, send an email to info@milehighonthecheap.com and we'll do our best to add to the list.
Here are some low-cost and moderate-price options:
Chain Restaurants
Boston Market — Open for dine-in and take-out at the Aurora (14110 E. Iliff Ave., 303-755-4032) and Wheat Ridge (3820 N. Wadsworth Blvd., 303-420-3444) locations. Individual Christmas Meals (choice of hand-carved ham, roasted turkey breast or half signature roasted chicken) served with two sides, dinner roll and a slice of apple pie are $12.99. Market Feast for 3 (ham, turkey or chicken with three large sides, three dinner rolls and a whole apple or pumpkin pie) is $34.99. Hours are typically 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., but call to confirm.
Denny's — Christmas is actually the diner chain's busiest day of the year. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all 24-hours of Christmas Day.
Golden Corral — Centennial location (15775 E. Arapahoe Rd., 303-865-4250) open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Prime rib, turkey and ham served along with 150+ items on the endless buffet. Adults: $17.99; seniors/military $16.99; kids 9-12 $9.99; kids 4-8 $7.99.
IHOP — Open all day (24-hours restaurants will keep to schedule, hours may vary at other locations).
McDonald's — A handful of participating locations will be open. Call ahead to confirm.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery — All four Denver locations open at 8 a.m. on Christmas Day.
Starbucks — Most locations open.
Steak 'n Shake — Opens at 11 a.m.
Village Inn — Open all day (though hours may vary by location). Be sure to get a slice of Candy Cane pie.
Waffle House — Open all day.
Individual Restaurants
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant in Broomfield — Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for dine in or to go. 615 Flatiron Market Place Dr., 303-464-7673.
Damascus Grill — Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 703 Wilcox St., Castle Rock, 303-688-4441.
Golden Shanghai — Open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. 1412 S. Parker Rd., A-134, Denver, 303-743-7666.
Great Scotts Eatery — Denver location open 24/7 year-round. Broomfield location open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Hong Kong Cafe — Open all day. 10890 E Dartmouth Ave. Unit C, Denver, 303-696-6688.
Jerusalem Restaurant — Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8 a.m. to 5 a.m. (that's not a typo, it is a.m.) Near DU campus. 1890 Evans, Denver, 303-777-8828.
Menya Poke & Ramen — Quick-service Japanese cuisine. Open 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. 600 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 720-696-6769.
New York Deli News — Open 365 days a year including Christmas Day, 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. 7105 E. Hampden Ave., Denver.
The Park Tavern & Restaurant — Open every day from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. (yep, that's a.m.). 931 E. 11th Ave., Denver, 303-832-7667.
ViewHouse Ballpark — Open for lunch and dinner. Normal business hours. Full menu available. 2015 Market St., Denver, 720-306-9008.
Zaidy's Deli in Cherry Creek. – Open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 121 Adams St., Denver, 303-333-5336.
A number of pricier restaurants will also be open on Christmas Day. They include Benihana, Salvage (3-course Christmas Dinner is $49.95 per person), Elway's Downtown, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Fogo de Chao, The Corner Office and Kachina Southwestern Grill. The easiest way to check availability is to use OpenTable. Type in December 25, the time you want to dine, and the site will pull up a list of available restaurants and allow you to make a reservation.
For more local deals and discounts go to MileHighontheCheap.com.