Turkey Lurkey Time: The Best Restaurants for Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in a feast of hearty comfort foods. While many people enjoy cooking a traditional meal at home, some prefer to leave it to the professionals. If you're looking for an extraordinary dining experience this Thanksgiving, here are some of the best restaurants across the United States where you can savor a memorable holiday dinner.
Tam O’Shanter – Los Angeles, CA
For a more traditional and old-world dining experience, Tam O’Shanter in Los Angeles is a top choice. As one of the city’s oldest restaurants, Tam O'Shanter is known for its hearty fare and warm, pub-like atmosphere. Their Thanksgiving menu often includes roasted turkey, prime rib, and all the fixings, making it a perfect place for those craving a classic holiday meal.
Kinship – Washington, DC
Located in the heart of Washington, DC, Kinship is renowned for its contemporary American cuisine. Chef Eric Ziebold’s sophisticated dishes focus on seasonal ingredients, making it an excellent choice for Thanksgiving. Expect a modern twist on classic holiday staples, like roasted turkey with inventive sides, all while dining in a warm, intimate setting perfect for the season.
Boar’s Head Restaurant – Charlottesville, VA
Nestled in the Boar’s Head Resort, this restaurant offers a charming, historic ambiance ideal for Thanksgiving dinner. Known for its farm-to-table approach, the Boar’s Head showcases locally sourced ingredients. Their holiday menu typically includes traditional Thanksgiving offerings like roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, along with innovative seasonal dishes reflecting the region’s culinary heritage.
Koloman – New York, NY
If you're in New York City, Koloman provides an elegant Thanksgiving experience with a European twist. This French-Austrian brasserie brings a refined approach to Thanksgiving, offering dishes that combine modern techniques with the warmth of traditional cuisine. You’ll find beautifully crafted turkey plates alongside inventive sides such as spaetzle and delicate pastries, served in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere.
Brennan’s – New Orleans, LA
Brennan’s is an iconic establishment in New Orleans, known for its Creole-inspired cuisine and legendary brunches. For Thanksgiving, Brennan’s serves up a holiday menu that combines traditional Southern flavors with a festive Creole twist. Think roasted turkey with oyster dressing, sweet potato soufflé, and, of course, their famous Bananas Foster for dessert.
Aba – Austin, TX
Aba, located in Austin’s chic South Congress district, offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a beautifully designed space. For Thanksgiving, Aba’s menu takes a creative approach to holiday staples, blending vibrant flavors with familiar ingredients. Their Thanksgiving dinner often features a mix of wood-fired meats and fresh, seasonal produce, creating a flavorful and unforgettable dining experience.
Tu Tu Tango – Orlando, FL
For those in Orlando looking for a more eclectic Thanksgiving, Café Tu Tu Tango offers a lively, artistic atmosphere with a tapas-style menu. Known for its small plates and vibrant dishes, this restaurant brings a creative flair to the holiday table. You can expect a Thanksgiving menu with a fusion of flavors from around the world, perfect for those seeking something non-traditional yet festive.
Somerset – Chicago, IL
Situated in Chicago’s Gold Coast, Somerset blends classic American dishes with modern flair. This upscale restaurant delivers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. The holiday menu typically includes traditional offerings like roast turkey and mashed potatoes, but Somerset is known for elevating these classics with refined techniques and premium ingredients.
Stella – Seattle, WA
Stella, located in the heart of Seattle, offers Italian-inspired dishes with Pacific Northwest influences. For Thanksgiving, Stella’s menu often reflects the bounty of the local region with dishes like roasted turkey, cranberry relish, and seasonal vegetables from nearby farms. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a holiday meal with family or friends.
Mabel’s BBQ – Las Vegas, NV
Mabel’s BBQ in Las Vegas, helmed by celebrity chef Michael Symon, offers a Thanksgiving feast with a smoky, barbecue twist. While turkey is still on the menu, it’s likely slow-smoked to perfection, and you can also expect sides like mac and cheese, cornbread stuffing, and tangy barbecue sauces. Mabel’s delivers a casual yet delicious take on Thanksgiving that will leave you full and satisfied.