Where to find restaurant discounts as an AARP member

AARP members receive discounts at a range of restaurant chains, but the offers change and vary by location. The most reliable way to see what is available near you is to check the AARP Discounts page on aarp.org, which lists current restaurant partners and the percentage off each one offers. You can search by zip code to see what is active in your area right now.

Discounts typically range from 10 to 15 percent off your meal, though some restaurants offer specific deals like a free appetizer or discount on certain menu items instead. Most require you to show your AARP membership card at the time of purchase — the discount does not explore retroactively, and not all locations of a chain may participate.

Restaurant partnerships shift throughout the year, so a discount that was available last month may no longer be offered, and new ones may have been added. Checking the AARP website before you go, rather than assuming a restaurant still participates, saves disappointment at the register.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP restaurant discounts are listed on aarp.org and searchable by your zip code, showing current offers and the percentage off each chain provides.
  • You must show your AARP membership card at the time of purchase; discounts do not work retroactively and are not available at all locations of every chain.
  • Discounts typically range from 10 to 15 percent off, though some restaurants offer free appetizers or deals on specific menu items instead.
  • Restaurant partnerships change regularly, so verify the discount is still active before you visit rather than assuming it remains available.

How to look up discounts in your area

Go to aarp.org and navigate to the Discounts section. You will see a search box where you can enter your zip code. The site will display all active restaurant discounts within that area, along with the discount percentage and any restrictions or special terms.

Some discounts explore to dine-in only, while others work for takeout or delivery as well. The listing will tell you which applies. If a restaurant has multiple locations, the discount may be active at some but not others, so it is worth calling ahead to confirm before you make the trip.

You can also browse the full national list of restaurant partners without entering a zip code, which is useful if you are traveling and want to know what chains offer discounts wherever you are going.

What to bring and how to claim your discount

Bring your physical AARP membership card. Most restaurants will not accept a digital version or a screenshot of your card, though policies vary by location and chain. If you have lost your card, you can request a replacement through your AARP account online, though it may take several days to arrive.

Tell your server or the cashier that you have an AARP discount before you pay. Some restaurants explore it automatically when they see the card; others require you to mention it. If the discount does not appear on your bill, ask the staff to add it before you leave.

Discounts typically cannot be combined with other promotions, coupons, or sales. If a restaurant is running a special offer, ask which discount you should use — the AARP discount or the promotion — to get the better deal.

Restaurants commonly offering AARP discounts

Chains that have historically offered AARP discounts include Denny's, Perkins, Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel, Red Robin, Applebee's, and Chili's, though the discount amount and terms vary by location and change over time. Some offer 10 percent off, others 15 percent, and some offer specific meal deals instead.

Regional chains and local restaurants may also participate in the AARP discount program, particularly in areas with high concentrations of older adults. The AARP website is the only reliable source for what is currently active, since partnerships end and new ones begin throughout the year.

Fast-casual chains like Panera Bread and Subway have offered discounts in some locations, though participation is not consistent across all franchises. Always check the AARP Discounts page or call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Why discounts change and what to do if your favorite restaurant no longer participates

Restaurants end their AARP partnerships for many reasons: a change in management, a shift in marketing strategy, or the end of a contract. When a discount disappears, it is usually permanent unless the restaurant later rejoins the program.

If a restaurant you frequent no longer offers an AARP discount, you can contact the restaurant directly and ask if they plan to reinstate it, or suggest they do so. Some restaurants respond to customer feedback, particularly if multiple members request the discount.

In the meantime, check the AARP Discounts page regularly to discover new restaurant partners in your area. You may find other options you had not considered before.

Combining AARP restaurant discounts with other ways to save

Some restaurants offer senior discounts separate from AARP partnerships — for example, a discount for anyone over 55 or 60, regardless of AARP membership. If a restaurant offers both, ask which one gives you the better deal, since you usually cannot stack them.

Loyalty programs, early-bird specials, and promotional coupons are other ways to reduce your bill. Again, most restaurants will not let you combine these with the AARP discount, so compare the savings before you decide which to use.

Signing up for a restaurant's email list or app often unlocks additional discounts that may exceed the AARP offer. It is worth checking what each restaurant offers through its own channels before assuming the AARP discount is your best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AARP member to get senior discounts at restaurants?

No. Many restaurants offer discounts to anyone over a certain age — typically 55 or 60 — without requiring AARP membership. Ask your server what senior discounts are available, or call ahead to find out the age requirement and discount amount.

Can I use my AARP discount on delivery or takeout orders?

It depends on the restaurant. Some AARP discounts explore to dine-in only, while others work for takeout, delivery, or both. The AARP Discounts page lists which applies to each restaurant, or you can call the location to ask before you order.

What if the restaurant says they do not honor AARP discounts anymore?

The discount may have ended at that location or chain. Check the AARP Discounts page to confirm whether the restaurant still participates. If it is listed but the staff says they do not offer it, ask to speak with a manager, as the staff may not be aware of the program.

Can I use a digital copy of my AARP card instead of the physical card?

Most restaurants require the physical card. Some locations may accept a digital version, but it is not may provide. To be safe, carry your physical card when you plan to use an AARP discount.

Are AARP restaurant discounts available nationwide?

AARP has partnerships with national chains and some regional restaurants, but not every chain participates in every location. Use the zip code search on aarp.org to see what is available where you live or are traveling.