Thanksgiving 2024 is right around the corner, and every year, the tradition of gathering around the dinner table with family and friends turns this holiday season special. Whether it’s the mouthwatering aroma of turkey roasting or the enticing smell of freshly baked pumpkin pie wafting through the air, the anticipation is palpable. This year, though, options for dining out—or taking the feast to-go—are abundant. For those who’d prefer to skip the cooking and enjoy the holiday, many restaurants are stepping up to offer delicious alternatives.
Across the nation, eateries are serving up traditional Thanksgiving fare, not to mention unique spins on the classic meals. For example, Rashida Holmes, the owner of Bridgetown Roti, is bringing Caribbean flair to the holiday table with her specialty meals crafted just for this occasion. Based out of Los Angeles, Holmes started her culinary venture as a pop-up and has now established her brick-and-mortar restaurant. With Thanksgiving looming, she is gearing up to serve jerk turkey legs and rich mac and cheese pies, allowing Angelenos to embrace the holiday with some island vibes.
"We do everything family-style, so it’s all about enjoying the meal together," Holmes stated. Though they will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, her restaurant is accepting catering orders leading up to the holiday. This catering option includes favorites like her beef patties, which guests can bake at home to enjoy fresh out of the oven.
Of course, the recipes and flavors can significantly vary from family to family, and traditions often differ as well. For Holmes, family is key during Thanksgiving. Often, each member contributes their own favorite dish, and for Holmes, her mother’s cornbread and sausage stuffing steals the show. "I love turkey, I love some gravy, and I love mac and cheese," she shared, embodying the joy of sharing heartwarming stories over meals.
While some prefer celebrating at home or hosting family gatherings, others wish to dine out. For those based out of Louisville, Kentucky, many options await. The Brown Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom provides diners with traditional buffet fare, including turkey and maple-glazed ham complemented with sides like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. With seats filling up quickly, making reservations is advised!
And if you’re on the hunt for something more upscale, The Capital Grille serves a delicious Thanksgiving menu featuring slow-roasted turkey with savory brioche sage stuffing. For locals seeking casual dining, Captain's Quarters Riverside Grille offers its own buffet showcasing Southern fried chicken alongside Thanksgiving classics.
For those who plan to eat Thanksgiving dinner without stepping foot inside the kitchen, many local restaurants are providing takeout options too. Cracker Barrel offers ready-to-heat meals, allowing families to enjoy a complete Thanksgiving feast without the hassle of cooking. Their Heat N’ Serve meals cater to various sizes, and you can even preorder to bypass the shopping lines. Sounds like a win-win, right?
Meanwhile, Decade Restaurant, located just outside of Louisville, provides traditional Thanksgiving meals all the way to your home, serving roasted or fried turkey for dine-in or takeout. And if you happen to be craving something sweet, they’ll even include autumn spiced Snickerdoodle cookies, creating the perfect blend of savory and sweet for your holiday meal.
Looking for something interesting? Naples, Florida, delectable eats also deserve attention. The Ritz-Carlton Resorts are hosting grand buffets for guests eager to indulge beyond the basics. From uniquely themed dishes to enchanting waterfront views, dining here could be the perfect family outing.
Staying true to the holiday spirit, restaurants often promote gratitude and togetherness. Holmes expressed the importance of family traditions during her Thanksgivings—sharing thanks before the meal serves as meaningful bonding time. Each member takes turns conveying what they’re most grateful for, creating cherished memories.
One of the more exciting aspects this year is the ability to find Thanksgiving-themed activities such as most restaurants hosting holiday brunches paired with creative beverages for adults as well as the little ones. These buffets often sprinkle some fun elements, like crafting Thanksgiving-themed drinks or allowing guests to personalize their own plates.
While not everyone loves cooking, this season can still offer delightful culinary experiences. Those who aren’t comfortable preparing the holiday favorites can simply explore the fantastic local venues. From intimate family-owned spots offering homestyle meals to upscale dining establishments providing premium options—everyone is sure to find something satisfying.
For those who want the traditional Thanksgiving flavors without lifting a spoon, numerous catering services come prepared to serve. Jimmy Ps Butcher Shop delivers words of culinary delight, combining comfort food with high-quality ingredients. Their turkey options come with all the fixings and will be ready for pick-up just before Thanksgiving Day, allowing families the ease of hosting their holiday get-together.
It’s fascinating to note how the Thanksgiving experience varies drastically across cities, states, and households. For many, the sense of community and love tied to the meal is what makes it feel like home. Eating together, sharing stories from the past year, and meal prepping for the future are sentiments shared by many.
The spirit of Thanksgiving is to come together and celebrate—be it over dining tables lined with home-cooked classics or enjoying restaurant specialties. With caterers and restaurants rolling out the red carpet for this holiday, you’re bound to find the perfect solution for your Thanksgiving 2024 plans.
This year, let’s embrace the warmth of the season, filled with kindness and gratitude whether eating out or dining at home. No one says you have to cook to celebrate and enjoy this wonderful holiday.
