Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. But what if you don't have time to cook a big meal? Or what if you're traveling and away from home? Fear not! There are plenty of restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, so you can still enjoy a delicious holiday meal without all the hassle.
From classic turkey dinners to modern twists on holiday favorites, there's something for everyone at these Thanksgiving restaurants. So whether you're looking for a casual meal or a fine-dining experience, you're sure to find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that will satisfy your cravings.
Now that you know which restaurants are open on Thanksgiving, it's time to start planning your holiday meal. Be sure to make a reservation early, as these restaurants tend to fill up quickly. And don't forget to bring your appetite!
what restaurants are open on thanksgiving
Thanksgiving dining options abound.
- Classic turkey dinners
- Modern holiday favorites
- Casual and fine-dining choices
- Make reservations early
- Bring your appetite!
- Buffets and prix-fixe menus
- Kid-friendly options
- Vegetarian and vegan choices
With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect Thanksgiving restaurant for your needs.
Classic turkey dinners
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a classic turkey dinner. And luckily, many restaurants are open on Thanksgiving and offer this traditional feast. From juicy roasted turkey with all the trimmings to flavorful stuffing and creamy mashed potatoes, you're sure to find a classic turkey dinner that will satisfy your cravings.
Here are some of the best places to enjoy a classic turkey dinner on Thanksgiving:
- Cracker Barrel Old Country Store: This family-friendly chain restaurant is known for its home-cooked meals, and their Thanksgiving dinner is no exception. You'll get all the classic dishes, including turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, plus a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert.
- Boston Market: Another great option for a classic turkey dinner is Boston Market. Their Thanksgiving meal includes a whole roasted turkey, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce. You can also add on sides like macaroni and cheese or sweet potato casserole.
- Bob Evans: Bob Evans is another popular chain restaurant that offers a classic turkey dinner on Thanksgiving. Their meal includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce, plus a slice of pumpkin pie or apple pie for dessert.
These are just a few of the many restaurants that offer classic turkey dinners on Thanksgiving. So whether you're looking for a casual meal or a more formal dining experience, you're sure to find a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings.
No matter where you choose to go, be sure to make a reservation early, as these restaurants tend to fill up quickly. And don't forget to bring your appetite!
Modern holiday favorites
In addition to classic turkey dinners, many restaurants are also offering modern twists on holiday favorites. These dishes take inspiration from traditional Thanksgiving flavors but add a unique and contemporary flair. Here are a few examples:
- Roasted turkey with cranberry-balsamic glaze: This dish combines classic turkey with a sweet and tangy glaze made from cranberries and balsamic vinegar.
- Turkey roulade with wild mushroom stuffing: This elegant dish features turkey breast stuffed with wild mushrooms, herbs, and bread crumbs, then roasted to perfection.
- Pumpkin ravioli with brown butter and sage: This vegetarian dish features pumpkin-filled ravioli topped with a brown butter and sage sauce.
- Sweet potato and black bean enchiladas: These enchiladas are filled with a sweet potato and black bean mixture, then topped with a roasted tomato salsa.
- Apple cider doughnuts with maple glaze: These doughnuts are a delicious way to end your Thanksgiving meal. They're made with apple cider and maple syrup, and they're served with a maple glaze.
These are just a few examples of the many modern holiday favorites that you can find at restaurants on Thanksgiving. So if you're looking for something a little different this year, be sure to check out some of these creative dishes.
No matter what your taste, you're sure to find a restaurant that offers a Thanksgiving meal that you'll love. So gather your family and friends, and head out to a restaurant for a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
Casual and fine-dining choices
Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a more formal dining experience, you're sure to find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that fits your needs.
- Casual dining: Many casual dining restaurants are open on Thanksgiving, offering a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. These restaurants typically have a menu that includes classic Thanksgiving dishes, as well as some more modern options. Some popular casual dining restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving include Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Boston Market, and Bob Evans.
- Fine dining: If you're looking for a more upscale Thanksgiving experience, there are many fine-dining restaurants that are also open on the holiday. These restaurants typically offer a more sophisticated menu, with dishes that are prepared with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. Some popular fine-dining restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving include The Ritz-Carlton, The Waldorf Astoria, and Daniel.
- Buffets: Some restaurants offer Thanksgiving buffets, which allow you to sample a variety of dishes. This is a great option if you're looking for a more casual meal or if you have a large group. Some popular restaurants that offer Thanksgiving buffets include Golden Corral, Ryan's, and Hometown Buffet.
- Prix-fixe menus: Some restaurants offer prix-fixe menus on Thanksgiving, which means that you pay a set price for a predetermined meal. This is a good option if you're looking for a more formal dining experience. Some popular restaurants that offer prix-fixe menus on Thanksgiving include The Modern, Eleven Madison Park, and Jean-Georges.
No matter what your budget or preferences, you're sure to find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that offers a meal that you'll enjoy. So gather your family and friends, and head out to a restaurant for a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
Make reservations early
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for restaurants, so it's important to make reservations early, especially if you're planning on dining at a popular restaurant. Here are a few tips for making reservations early:
- Start making reservations as soon as possible. Some restaurants start taking reservations for Thanksgiving months in advance, so it's best to get a head start.
- Be flexible with your time. If you're willing to dine at an off-peak time, such as early in the afternoon or late in the evening, you may be able to get a reservation more easily.
- Consider dining at a less popular restaurant. If you're having trouble getting a reservation at your favorite restaurant, consider dining at a less popular restaurant. There are many great restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving that may not be as well-known.
- Be prepared to pay a deposit. Some restaurants require a deposit when you make a reservation for Thanksgiving. This is typically a small fee that will be applied to your bill. It is worth mentioning that some restaurants offer Thanksgiving dinners for free, they usually charge a deposit. It would be safer to make a reservation with a deposit instead.
- Confirm your reservation. A few days before Thanksgiving, call the restaurant to confirm your reservation.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting a reservation at the restaurant of your choice on Thanksgiving.
It's also important to keep in mind that many restaurants offer takeout and delivery options on Thanksgiving. This is a great option if you don't want to dine out or if you're short on time. Be sure to call the restaurant ahead of time to inquire about their takeout and delivery options.
Bring your appetite!
Thanksgiving is a time for feasting, so be sure to bring your appetite when you go out to eat on the holiday. Here are a few tips for making the most of your Thanksgiving meal:
- Start with a light breakfast or lunch. This will help you save room for your big Thanksgiving dinner.
- Take your time eating. Don't rush through your meal. Savor each bite and enjoy the company of your family and friends.
- Don't be afraid to ask for seconds. If there's a dish that you particularly enjoy, don't be shy about asking for more. After all, it's Thanksgiving!
- Save room for dessert. No Thanksgiving meal is complete without dessert. Be sure to save room for a slice of pumpkin pie, apple pie, or another of your favorite Thanksgiving desserts.
If you're feeling really ambitious, you can even try to eat a whole turkey leg. But be warned, it's a challenge! Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy yourself and to celebrate with family and friends. So relax, eat delicious food, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Buffets and prix-fixe menus
Many restaurants offer buffets and prix-fixe menus on Thanksgiving. Here's a look at the pros and cons of each option:
- Buffets:
- Pros:
- Variety of dishes to choose from
- All-you-can-eat
- Good option for large groups
- Cons:
- Can be crowded and noisy
- Food may not be as high-quality as prix-fixe menus
- May have to wait in line for food
- Prix-fixe menus:
- Pros:
- Set price for a predetermined meal
- Typically higher-quality food than buffets
- More intimate dining experience
- Cons:
- Less variety to choose from
- May not be able to get seconds
- Not as good of an option for large groups
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. If you're looking for a variety of dishes and an all-you-can-eat option, then a buffet may be a good choice. If you're looking for a more intimate dining experience with higher-quality food, then a prix-fixe menu may be a better option.
Kid-friendly options
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options on Thanksgiving. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a restaurant that's good for kids:
- Kids' menu: A kids' menu typically offers smaller portions of popular dishes, as well as some kid-friendly favorites like chicken nuggets, hamburgers, and macaroni and cheese.
- High chairs and booster seats: Make sure the restaurant has high chairs and booster seats available for younger children.
- Activity sheets or toys: Some restaurants provide activity sheets or toys to keep kids entertained while they're waiting for their food.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Look for a restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere, where kids won't feel out of place.
Here are a few popular restaurants that offer kid-friendly options on Thanksgiving:
- Cracker Barrel Old Country Store: Cracker Barrel is a great option for families with kids. They have a kids' menu with plenty of kid-friendly options, as well as high chairs and booster seats. They also have a gift shop where kids can pick out a toy after their meal.
- Boston Market: Boston Market is another good option for families with kids. They have a kids' menu with a variety of choices, as well as high chairs and booster seats. They also offer takeout and delivery, which can be a convenient option for families with young children.
- Bob Evans: Bob Evans is another popular family-friendly restaurant. They have a kids' menu with all the classic kid-friendly dishes, as well as high chairs and booster seats. They also have a play area where kids can burn off some energy after their meal.
No matter where you choose to go, be sure to call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm that they offer kid-friendly options on Thanksgiving.
With a little planning, you can find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that offers a kid-friendly menu and atmosphere. This will help you ensure that everyone in your family has a happy and enjoyable Thanksgiving dinner.
Vegetarian and vegan choices
More and more restaurants are offering vegetarian and vegan options on their Thanksgiving menus. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a restaurant that offers vegetarian and vegan options:
- Vegetarian and vegan menu items: Make sure the restaurant has a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes to choose from, including both appetizers and entrees.
- Clearly labeled menu items: The menu should clearly label which dishes are vegetarian and vegan. This will make it easy for you to find the dishes that you can eat.
- Knowledgeable staff: The restaurant staff should be knowledgeable about the vegetarian and vegan options on the menu. This will help you make informed choices about what to order.
- Accommodating kitchen: The restaurant kitchen should be willing to accommodate special requests, such as making a dish vegan or vegetarian if it is not already listed as such on the menu.
Here are a few popular restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan options on Thanksgiving:
- Whole Foods Market: Whole Foods Market is a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They have a large selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including both prepared foods and groceries. They also offer takeout and delivery.
- Veggie Grill: Veggie Grill is a vegan restaurant chain that offers a variety of delicious dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and bowls. They also have a kids' menu with vegan options.
- Cafe Gratitude: Cafe Gratitude is a vegan restaurant that offers a variety of healthy and flavorful dishes. They have a Thanksgiving menu that includes dishes such as roasted butternut squash, wild mushroom risotto, and pumpkin pie.
With a little planning, you can find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. This will help you ensure that everyone in your family has a delicious and enjoyable Thanksgiving dinner.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving:
Question 1: What are some popular restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving?
Answer: Some popular restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving include Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Boston Market, Bob Evans, Whole Foods Market, Veggie Grill, and Cafe Gratitude.
Question 2: What kind of food can I expect to find at Thanksgiving restaurants?
Answer: Thanksgiving restaurants typically offer a variety of traditional Thanksgiving dishes, such as turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. However, many restaurants also offer modern twists on holiday favorites, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
Question 3: Do I need to make reservations for Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant?
Answer: Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations for Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for restaurants, so it's important to book your table early to avoid disappointment.
Question 4: What are some tips for choosing a restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner?
Answer: When choosing a restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner, you should consider the following factors: the type of food you want to eat, the atmosphere you're looking for, your budget, and whether or not the restaurant offers kid-friendly options or vegetarian and vegan options.
Question 5: Can I get Thanksgiving dinner to go?
Answer: Yes, many restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for Thanksgiving dinner. This is a great option if you don't want to dine out or if you're short on time.
Question 6: What are some tips for enjoying Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant?
Answer: Here are a few tips for enjoying Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant: arrive on time for your reservation, dress comfortably, be prepared to share dishes with your family and friends, and save room for dessert!
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Now that you know all about restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, it's time to start planning your holiday meal. Be sure to make your reservations early and to bring your appetite!
Tips
Here are a few tips for enjoying a delicious and stress-free Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant:
Tip 1: Make reservations early.
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for restaurants, so it's important to book your table early to avoid disappointment. Many restaurants start taking reservations for Thanksgiving months in advance, so it's best to get a head start.
Tip 2: Be flexible with your time.
If you're willing to dine at an off-peak time, such as early in the afternoon or late in the evening, you may be able to get a reservation more easily. You may also be able to get a better deal on your meal.
Tip 3: Consider dining at a less popular restaurant.
If you're having trouble getting a reservation at your favorite restaurant, consider dining at a less popular restaurant. There are many great restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving that may not be as well-known. You may be able to get a better deal on your meal and avoid the crowds.
Tip 4: Ask about takeout and delivery options.
If you don't want to dine out or if you're short on time, many restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for Thanksgiving dinner. This is a great way to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal in the comfort of your own home.
We hope these tips help you have a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant.
With a little planning, you can find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that offers a meal that you'll love. So gather your family and friends, and head out to a restaurant for a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And luckily, there are many restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, so you can still enjoy a delicious holiday meal without all the hassle of cooking. Whether you're looking for a classic turkey dinner, a modern twist on holiday favorites, or a vegetarian or vegan option, you're sure to find a restaurant that has something for everyone.
Here are some of the main points to remember when choosing a restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner:
- Make reservations early, especially if you're planning on dining at a popular restaurant.
- Be flexible with your time and consider dining at an off-peak time or at a less popular restaurant.
- Ask about takeout and delivery options if you don't want to dine out or if you're short on time.
With a little planning, you can find a restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving and that offers a meal that you'll love. So gather your family and friends, and head out to a restaurant for a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Happy Thanksgiving!