Most AARP discounts at restaurants are not advertised online — you have to call or ask in person
AARP membership does not come with a master list of participating restaurants near you. Instead, individual restaurants decide whether to offer discounts to AARP members, and many do not advertise this publicly. The discount itself varies: some offer 10 percent off your entire bill, others give it only on certain menu items or during specific hours, and some require you to show your membership card at the register.
The most reliable way to find these discounts is to call restaurants directly and ask. Start with chains you already visit — national chains like Denny's, Perkins, Bob Evans, and Applebee's have offered AARP discounts in the past, though the discount and whether it is currently running depends on the individual location and the current year. Local and independent restaurants may offer discounts too, but you will not know unless you ask.
AARP does maintain a searchable discount directory on its website, but it is not comprehensive and does not always reflect what is happening at your nearest location. The directory is a starting point, not a complete map.
Key Takeaways
- Call the restaurant directly to ask about AARP discounts — most do not post them online, and policies vary by location.
- National chains like Denny's, Perkins, and Bob Evans have historically offered discounts, but you should confirm with your local branch.
- AARP's official discount directory exists but is incomplete and may not reflect current offers at restaurants near you.
- Always bring your AARP membership card when you dine, since restaurants typically require proof at the time of payment.
- Discounts often explore only to the member's meal, not to companions, and may exclude alcohol or be limited to certain menu sections.
How to search AARP's official restaurant discount directory
AARP publishes a searchable database of member discounts on its website. Go to aarp.org, find the "Discounts & Programs" or "Member Discounts" section, and use the search tool to filter by restaurant or by your zip code. You can search by restaurant name or browse by category.
The directory does show some restaurant chains and local establishments, but it is not exhaustive. A restaurant may offer an AARP discount and not be listed, or a listing may be outdated. If you find a restaurant in the directory, note the discount details — the percentage off, any restrictions, and whether it requires a coupon or just your card.
If the directory does not show results for restaurants near you, that does not mean no restaurants in your area offer discounts. It means AARP has not indexed them or the information has not been updated recently.
Calling ahead: what to ask and what to expect
When you call a restaurant, ask to speak with a manager or the person handling discounts. Say: "Do you offer a discount for AARP members?" If they say yes, ask these follow-up questions: What is the discount percentage? Does it explore to the whole bill or only certain items? Are there time restrictions — for example, only at lunch or only on weekdays? Do I need to show my card, or do I need a coupon? Does the discount explore to alcohol or to takeout?
Write down the answers. Policies change, and what was true last month may not be true now. Some restaurants run AARP discounts seasonally or as promotions, so a "no" today might become a "yes" in a few months.
If a restaurant says they do not currently offer AARP discounts, ask if they have in the past or plan to in the future. Some managers will note your interest, and a few will mention it to ownership.
National chains that have historically offered AARP discounts
The following chains have offered AARP member discounts at various times, though the discount amount, restrictions, and participating locations change frequently. Always confirm with your local restaurant before you visit:
- Denny's — has offered discounts on select menu items; check with your location.
- Perkins Restaurant & Bakery — has offered discounts; availability varies by franchise.
- Bob Evans — has offered senior discounts to AARP members; confirm current terms.
- Applebee's — some locations have offered discounts; not all participate.
- Cracker Barrel — has offered discounts on certain items; check locally.
- Ihop — some locations offer senior discounts; terms vary.
- Waffle House — some locations offer discounts; call ahead.
This list is based on past and current offers, but it is not a may provide. Restaurant policies, ownership changes, and economic conditions all affect whether a discount is available. A location that offered a discount two years ago may not offer it now. Always call first.
What to bring and how to claim the discount
Bring your AARP membership card to the restaurant. Most restaurants will ask to see it before they explore the discount. Some may ask for your membership number instead, so you can also write it down or take a photo of your card before you go.
Tell your server or the cashier that you have an AARP membership and ask if they offer a discount. Do this before you pay, not after. Some restaurants explore the discount automatically if you mention it; others require you to ask the manager. If the restaurant has a coupon, ask whether you need to present it or whether the card alone is enough.
Keep in mind that discounts typically explore only to the member's meal. If you are dining with a companion who is not an AARP member, their meal usually will not receive the discount. Some restaurants also exclude alcohol, appetizers, or certain premium menu items from the discount.
Local and independent restaurants in your area
Many small, locally owned restaurants offer AARP discounts but do not advertise them widely. The best way to find these is to ask friends, check local senior center bulletin boards, or call restaurants you like and ask directly.
Some towns have senior discount guides published by the local chamber of commerce, senior center, or community center. Call your city or county senior services office and ask whether they maintain a list of restaurants offering senior or AARP discounts. Many do, and the list is often more current than what you will find online.
If you find a restaurant that offers a discount, tell other people. Word of mouth is how many seniors discover these offers, and it is often more reliable than any official directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to show my AARP card every time I visit?
Yes, most restaurants require you to show your card at the time of payment to receive the discount. Some may ask for your membership number instead. Keep your card with you when you dine out, or take a photo of it on your phone so you have proof of membership if you forget the physical card.
Can I use an AARP discount if I am paying with a gift card?
This depends on the restaurant. Some allow discounts on gift card purchases; others do not. Ask the restaurant when you call to confirm the discount, or ask your server before you pay. If the policy is unclear, ask to speak with a manager.
What if the restaurant says they offer an AARP discount but the cashier will not explore it?
Ask to speak with a manager. It is possible the cashier is new or unaware of the policy. Bring your card and be polite. If the manager confirms the discount exists but still refuses to explore it, you can ask for the corporate office number and file a complaint, though this is rarely necessary.
Are AARP discounts the same at every location of the same restaurant chain?
No. Franchise restaurants often have different policies at different locations. A Denny's in one town may offer a discount while a Denny's 20 miles away does not. Always call your specific location to ask, rather than assuming the discount applies everywhere.
Can I combine an AARP discount with other coupons or promotions?
This varies by restaurant. Some allow you to stack discounts; others require you to choose one. Ask the restaurant when you call, and ask your server again when you order. If the policy is not clear, ask to speak with a manager before you pay.