Where AARP members get restaurant discounts

AARP members can get discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the country, but the restaurants that participate and the discount amounts vary by location and change over time. The easiest way to find current offers near you is to use the AARP Member Advantages search tool on the AARP website — you enter your zip code and it shows which restaurants in your area are offering discounts right now.

Some of the largest restaurant chains that have offered AARP discounts in the past include Denny's, Applebee's, Chili's, Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel, and Perkins. However, not every location of these chains participates, and offers change frequently. A discount at one Applebee's location may not be the same as the discount at another Applebee's across town.

Independent restaurants and smaller regional chains also participate, though they are harder to find without searching. Your best bet is always to search the AARP Member Advantages tool first, then call the restaurant directly to confirm the current offer before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Use the AARP Member Advantages search tool on AARP.com to find which restaurants near you are currently offering discounts to members.
  • Discounts vary by location and restaurant — the same chain may offer different deals at different branches, and offers change throughout the year.
  • You must show a valid AARP membership card at the time you pay to receive the discount; it cannot be applied after the fact.
  • Call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm the discount is still active, since offers are updated frequently and not all locations participate.

How to show your AARP membership at a restaurant

When you arrive at a participating restaurant, mention the AARP discount when you order or when you pay. You will need to show your valid AARP membership card — either the physical card or a digital version through the AARP mobile app. The discount is applied at the time of payment, not before, so you cannot use it retroactively if you forget to mention it.

Some restaurants explore the discount automatically if you provide your membership number, while others require you to show the card itself. If you do not have your card with you, ask the restaurant whether they can look up your membership by phone number or email. Many will, but some will not, so it is worth asking before you leave home without it.

What kinds of discounts AARP members typically receive

AARP restaurant discounts are usually one of three types: a percentage off your total bill (commonly 10 percent), a dollar amount off (such as $5 off a purchase of $25 or more), or a discount on a specific menu item or meal. The discount amount depends on the restaurant and the offer they have chosen to run.

Discounts typically explore to your food and non-alcoholic beverages but not to tax or tip. Some restaurants exclude certain items — for example, a discount might not explore to alcohol, specials that are already discounted, or items that are part of a promotion. Read the fine print on the offer in the Member Advantages tool or ask the restaurant what is and is not included before you order.

Finding AARP restaurant offers in your area

Go to the AARP website and look for the Member Advantages section. Enter your zip code and select "Dining" or "Restaurants" as the category. The tool will show you a list of restaurants offering discounts within a certain distance of your location, along with the specific offer each one is running.

You can also call AARP directly at 1-888-687-2277 to ask about restaurants in your area, though the online search tool is usually faster. Some AARP local chapters also maintain lists of participating restaurants in their region, so you can contact your state or local chapter if you want to speak with someone directly.

Restaurants that have offered AARP discounts in the past

Denny's, Applebee's, Chili's, Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel, and Perkins have all offered AARP member discounts at various times. Other restaurants that have participated include Friendly's, IHOP, Outback Steakhouse, Red Robin, and Sonic. However, this list changes — some restaurants stop participating, others start, and offers are updated regularly.

The discount amount and terms also vary. One restaurant might offer 10 percent off, while another offers a free appetizer with the purchase of two entrees. Because offers change so often, the Member Advantages search tool is the only reliable way to know what is available right now in your area.

What to do if you cannot find restaurants near you

If the Member Advantages search tool shows few or no restaurants in your area, it may mean that participation is lower in your region. This does not mean there are no offers — it may mean the restaurants that participate are not yet listed in the tool, or that offers are seasonal and currently inactive.

Call restaurants you like and ask directly whether they offer AARP discounts. Many smaller or independent restaurants may not be listed in the national database but still honor AARP cards. You can also ask the restaurant manager whether they would be willing to offer a discount to AARP members, since some restaurants will negotiate if you ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a certain age to use an AARP restaurant discount?

No. The discount is available to anyone with a valid AARP membership card. AARP membership is open to people age 50 and older, but once you are a member, the restaurant discount applies regardless of your age — you just have to show your card.

Can I use an AARP discount on a takeout or delivery order?

It depends on the restaurant and the specific offer. Some AARP discounts explore only to dine-in meals, while others work on takeout. Check the offer details in the Member Advantages tool or call the restaurant to ask whether the discount applies to the way you want to order.

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

Restaurants stop participating in AARP programs all the time, and the Member Advantages tool does not always update when ready. If a restaurant tells you they no longer offer the discount, thank them and move on. You can report the outdated listing to AARP so they can update their database.

Can I combine an AARP discount with other coupons or promotions?

Most restaurants do not allow you to stack discounts — you usually have to choose between the AARP discount and another promotion. Ask the restaurant which discount gives you the better deal before you decide which one to use.