Back-to-School 2026: Best Restaurant Deals and Specials

Fast-Food Franchises Keep Students, Teachers and Families Fed With Discounts and Freebies

As August comes to a close, students and teachers across the country are getting ready to go back to school after a summer away from the classroom. Fast-food franchises help families ease back into the swing of things by offering treats to enjoy after back-to-school shopping or to celebrate the first week of the new school year.

Read on for a listing of those brands.  

Back-to-School 2026: Best Restaurant Deals and Specials

Chipotle 

Chipotle is serving up a little extra motivation for back to school with Chipotle U Rewards, a free loyalty program exclusive to college students. Members earn 1,000 bonus points at signup and can unlock student-only offers and free food. 

Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs is answering the call for the ultimate after-school snack. Starting Aug. 31 until Oct. 1, guests can enjoy 50% off all hot subs every Monday through Thursday from 2–5 p.m. 

Moe’s Southwest Grill 

Moe’s Southwest Grill is celebrating the back-to-school season by offering rewards members a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entrée. The offer can be redeemed once per week through October 2, with a new reward dropping every Saturday and redeemable through the following Friday.

Mountain Mike’s Pizza 

Mountain Mike’s is serving up back-to-school savings for everyone. Teachers and school staff can enjoy 15% off orders of $35 or more at Mountain Mike’s with code FAM15OFF, while families can save $10 on orders of $40 or more with promo code FAM1040. Students can also get in on the fun with $5 off a large Pizza or $8 off two Medium Pizzas using code STUDENT8. These offers are available now through the end of the year at participating locations. 

Potbelly

From Aug. 24–28, Potbelly Perks Members can earn extra credit with a buy one, get one (BOGO) free offer. Members who purchase a big or original sandwich receive an original sandwich or wrap for free. Potbelly fans can also receive 10% off catering orders of $200 or more through Sept. 13.

Smashburger

From Sept. 1–30, Smashburger is offering students, teachers, administrators and faculty its famous Smashfries (above) or Smash Tots for $1 with purchase at participating locations. A valid student ID or school staff ID is required to redeem the offer. Additionally, families with kids ages 12 and under can get a free kids meal with a minimum purchase of an adult meal at participating Smashburger locations on Wednesdays.