18 restaurants open Thanksgiving Day 2016

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. While many people prefer to cook at home, others might be looking for restaurants open Thanksgiving to enjoy a hassle-free meal. Whether you're traveling, hosting out-of-town guests, or simply want a break from the kitchen, there are plenty of dining options available. This guide will help you find the perfect spot to celebrate Thanksgiving, whether you're looking for a traditional feast, a unique dining experience, or something in between.

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Traditional Thanksgiving Feasts

If you're craving a classic Thanksgiving meal, many restaurants offer traditional feasts that include all the familiar favorites. These establishments often provide a festive atmosphere and a stress-free dining experience. Here are some types of restaurants that typically offer traditional Thanksgiving meals:

Steakhouses and Grills: Known for their hearty portions and classic sides, steakhouses often serve up a Thanksgiving-inspired menu with a twist. Expect to find turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes alongside steak and other grilled meats.
Family-Style Restaurants: These eateries are perfect for large groups and offer a communal dining experience. They often serve large platters of traditional Thanksgiving dishes, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors.
Buffets: Buffets are an excellent option for those who want to try a little bit of everything. They typically offer a wide selection of Thanksgiving dishes, from turkey and ham to casseroles and pies.

Some popular chains that often have restaurants open Thanksgiving include:

Cracker Barrel
Boston Market
Golden Corral

Be sure to check their websites or give them a call to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

Unique Thanksgiving Dining Experiences

For those looking to add a twist to their Thanksgiving celebration, there are plenty of unique dining experiences available. These restaurants offer creative menus and distinctive atmospheres that set them apart from traditional feasts.

Ethnic Cuisine: Many ethnic restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus that blend traditional flavors with their own culinary traditions. For example, you might find a Mexican-inspired Thanksgiving with mole sauce or an Italian-inspired feast with turkey ragu.
Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants often provide elegant Thanksgiving menus with gourmet dishes and exceptional service. These establishments are perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two.
Themed Restaurants: Some restaurants offer themed dining experiences that transport you to another time or place. For example, you might find a medieval-themed feast with turkey and truffles or a 1920s-inspired speakeasy with a Thanksgiving twist.

Some unique restaurants open Thanksgiving might include:

Cheesecake Factory
Maggiano's Little Italy
P.F. Chang's

These restaurants often have special menus and reservations are recommended.

Casual Dining Options

If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, there are plenty of casual dining options available. These restaurants offer a relaxed setting and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Sports Bars and Pubs: Many sports bars and pubs are open on Thanksgiving and offer a lively atmosphere with plenty of TVs for watching football games. They typically serve classic pub fare alongside Thanksgiving-inspired dishes.
Fast Casual Restaurants: These eateries offer quick and convenient dining options with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. They often have special Thanksgiving menus with items like turkey sandwiches, salads, and sides.
Cafes and Bakeries: For a lighter meal or a sweet treat, cafes and bakeries are a great option. They often serve Thanksgiving-inspired pastries, pies, and other desserts, as well as sandwiches and salads.

Some casual restaurants open Thanksgiving might include:

Applebee's
Chili's
Panera Bread

These restaurants are typically open regular hours and offer a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Local and Independent Restaurants

In addition to chain restaurants, many local and independent eateries offer special Thanksgiving menus. Supporting local businesses is a great way to give back to your community and enjoy a unique dining experience. Here are some types of local restaurants that might be open on Thanksgiving:

Farm-to-Table Restaurants: These eateries focus on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create fresh and flavorful dishes. They often have special Thanksgiving menus featuring turkey, vegetables, and other seasonal produce.
Breweries and Wineries: Many breweries and wineries offer food and drink pairings, and some have special Thanksgiving menus. They provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of beverages to complement your meal.
Food Trucks and Pop-Ups: Food trucks and pop-up restaurants often have special menus for holidays and events. They offer a unique dining experience and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

To find local restaurants open Thanksgiving, check online directories, social media, or ask friends and family for recommendations. Be sure to call ahead to confirm hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

Tips for Dining Out on Thanksgiving

Dining out on Thanksgiving can be a convenient and enjoyable experience, but it's important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free meal. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Thanksgiving dining experience:

Make Reservations Early: Many restaurants fill up quickly on Thanksgiving, so it's important to make reservations as early as possible. Some restaurants may require reservations weeks in advance, so be sure to plan ahead.
Check Menus and Prices: Before you go, check the restaurant's website or give them a call to confirm their Thanksgiving menu and prices. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you're getting the meal you want at a price you can afford.
Consider Dietary Restrictions: If you or someone in your group has dietary restrictions, be sure to check with the restaurant to see if they can accommodate your needs. Many restaurants offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, but it's always a good idea to confirm in advance.
Plan for Leftovers: If you're dining out, you might not have leftovers to take home. Consider bringing a container to take home any uneaten food, or ask the restaurant if they offer to-go boxes.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience on Thanksgiving.

🍽️ Note: Some restaurants may have limited menus or hours on Thanksgiving, so it's important to check with the restaurant directly to confirm their availability and offerings.

Thanksgiving Takeout and Delivery Options

If you prefer to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal at home but don't want to cook, takeout and delivery options are available. Many restaurants offer Thanksgiving meals to go, allowing you to enjoy a delicious feast without the hassle of cooking or cleaning.

Here are some types of restaurants that typically offer Thanksgiving takeout and delivery:

Traditional Restaurants: Many traditional restaurants offer Thanksgiving meals to go, complete with all the trimmings. They often have special menus and packages designed for takeout and delivery.
Catering Companies: Catering companies specialize in providing food for events and holidays. They often have Thanksgiving menus with a variety of dishes to choose from, and can deliver directly to your door.
Grocery Stores: Many grocery stores offer pre-made Thanksgiving meals that you can heat and serve at home. They typically have a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.

Some popular takeout and delivery options for Thanksgiving might include:

Whole Foods Market
Costco
Publix

Be sure to order in advance, as many restaurants and grocery stores have limited quantities and may require advance notice for large orders.

Thanksgiving Brunch Options

If you're looking for an alternative to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, consider brunch options. Many restaurants offer special Thanksgiving brunch menus with a variety of dishes to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some types of restaurants that typically offer Thanksgiving brunch:

Breakfast and Brunch Spots: These eateries specialize in breakfast and brunch dishes and often have special menus for holidays. They typically offer a variety of options, from classic brunch dishes to unique and creative creations.
Bakeries and Cafes: Bakeries and cafes often have special brunch menus for holidays, featuring pastries, sandwiches, and other light fare. They provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.
Hotels and Resorts: Many hotels and resorts offer Thanksgiving brunch buffets with a variety of dishes to choose from. They often have elegant settings and exceptional service, making them a great option for a special occasion.

Some popular restaurants open Thanksgiving for brunch might include:

IHOP
Denny's
Waffle House

Be sure to check their websites or give them a call to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch cruise. Many cities offer brunch cruises with special menus and stunning views of the waterfront. These cruises provide a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family.

Here are some popular brunch cruise options:

Bateau New York
Spirit of Boston
San Francisco Bay Cruise

Be sure to book in advance, as these cruises can fill up quickly.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local church or community center. Many churches and community centers offer Thanksgiving brunch with a variety of dishes to choose from. These brunches are often open to the public and provide a great way to give back to your community while enjoying a delicious meal.

Here are some popular brunch options at local churches and community centers:

First Baptist Church
St. Mary's Catholic Church
Community Center of Greater Des Moines

Be sure to check with the organization directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local farm or orchard. Many farms and orchards offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring locally sourced ingredients and stunning views of the countryside. These brunches provide a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family while supporting local agriculture.

Here are some popular brunch options at local farms and orchards:

Applewood Orchards
Green Meadows Farm
Sunny Meadows Orchard

Be sure to check with the farm or orchard directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local hotel or resort. Many hotels and resorts offer Thanksgiving brunch buffets with a variety of dishes to choose from. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local hotels and resorts:

Marriott
Hilton
Hyatt

Be sure to check with the hotel or resort directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local winery or brewery. Many wineries and breweries offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a variety of beverages to complement your meal. These brunches provide a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family while supporting local agriculture.

Here are some popular brunch options at local wineries and breweries:

Chateau Montelena
Bear Republic Brewing Company
Russian River Brewing Company

Be sure to check with the winery or brewery directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local restaurant. Many restaurants offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of dishes to suit different tastes and preferences. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local restaurants:

IHOP
Denny's
Waffle House

Be sure to check with the restaurant directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local cafe or bakery. Many cafes and bakeries offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and other light fare. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local cafes and bakeries:

Peet's Coffee
Starbucks
Panera Bread

Be sure to check with the cafe or bakery directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local diner. Many diners offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of classic brunch dishes. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local diners:

Denny's
IHOP
Waffle House

Be sure to check with the diner directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local food truck or pop-up restaurant. Many food trucks and pop-up restaurants offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of creative and unique dishes. These brunches provide a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family while supporting local entrepreneurs.

Here are some popular brunch options at local food trucks and pop-up restaurants:

Kogi BBQ
Gourmet Food Truck Co.
The Grilled Cheese Truck

Be sure to check with the food truck or pop-up restaurant directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local buffet. Many buffets offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of dishes to choose from. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local buffets:

Golden Corral
Cracker Barrel
Bennigan's

Be sure to check with the buffet directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local steakhouse or grill. Many steakhouses and grills offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of hearty and flavorful dishes. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local steakhouses and grills:

Outback Steakhouse
Texas Roadhouse
LongHorn Steakhouse

Be sure to check with the steakhouse or grill directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local family-style restaurant. Many family-style restaurants offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of classic brunch dishes. These brunches provide a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of menu items to suit different tastes and preferences.

Here are some popular brunch options at local family-style restaurants:

Cracker Barrel
Bob Evans
Denny's

Be sure to check with the family-style restaurant directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local ethnic restaurant. Many ethnic restaurants offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of unique and flavorful dishes. These brunches provide a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family while exploring different cultures.

Here are some popular brunch options at local ethnic restaurants:

P.F. Chang's
Maggiano's Little Italy
Cheesecake Factory

Be sure to check with the ethnic restaurant directly to confirm their hours and menus, as they can vary by location.

If you’re looking for a more traditional brunch experience, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at a local cafe or bakery. Many cafes and bakeries offer special brunch menus for holidays, featuring a variety of pastries, sandwiches,

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