Gobble Guide: San Diego's Top Restaurants to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Rancho Bernardo Inn: Tucked away on a lush 18-hole golf course, Rancho Bernardo Inn is tranquil oasis offering multiple options for Thanksgiving this year. For the true foodies, the on-property restaurant, AVANT is offering an elevated 3-course Thanksgiving menu from 2 - 7 p.m. With sophisticated offerings by Chef Tomas Baistrocchi, AVANT is the perfect choice for food-lovers who want a break from the kitchen. For fun with the whole family, the Aragon Ballroom will serve Thanksgiving classics with a special holiday buffet from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The entire family will be entertained, as the event is featuring live music on the terrace and a petting zoo & pony rides on the lawn. For Thanksgiving sweets to-go, patrons can delight in delicious mini-pies by Chef Margaret Nolan, the well-known pasty expert. For more information, please visit: www.ranchobernardoinn.com.

The Commons: It’s Turkey Time! The Commons, will be open at 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day to welcome both visitors and locals to celebrate their Thanksgiving with The Commons’ Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner and watch the Seattle Seahawks take on the San Francisco 49ers at 5:30 pm. The Commons’ Thanksgiving Dinner is composed of comfort traditions and holiday favorites with standouts off the menu including Herb Roasted Turkey paired with Charred Cherry Tomato Turkey Jus, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, French Green Bean Casserole, Sourdough and Golden Raisin Stuffing and topped off with fresh pumpkin pie. Guests can enjoy the whole Thanksgiving experience and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. for $14.99 per person.
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa: Located in the upscale San Diego community of Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, which just reopened last October following a $30 million renovation, will host an exquisite Thanksgiving buffet presented by Executive Chef Jarrod Moiles on Thursday, November 27. Featuring various stations including Charcuterie and Cheeses, Salads, Cold Seafood, House Made Pastas, a Carving Station and Desserts, guests will get the chance to indulge in Veladora’s Coastal Ranch cuisine that blends the area’s locally grown fruits and vegetables with unique combinations of flavors. Topped with live music and a most decadent dessert spread including the resort’s classic Pumpkin and Pecan pies, it’s just the way to celebrate the holiday. Rancho Valencia’s Thanksgiving Day buffet will be offered from 1-6 p.m. and costs $110 for adults and $45 for children 11 and under (kids under five are complimentary). Taxes and gratuity are not included. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 858-759-6246.
Lael’s Restaurant at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego: This Thanksgiving, feast on the good times with family and friends at Lael’s Restaurant at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. With an endless buffet, diners of every pallet are sure to be pleased. Beginning with a selection of fresh salads and soups including a Ginger Butternut Squash Bisque, an Autumn Cobb Salad and an International and Local Cheese Display, guests can also delight in a delectable Seafood Display with Alaskan King Crab Legs and Fresh Shucked Pacific Oysters, and Sushi on Ice with fresh Sashimi, and a Wakame and Tofu Salad with Papaya Vinaigrette. A live carving station including Whole Tom Turkey, Prime Rib and Cedar Salmon is also available for Thanksgiving diners, along with a Risotto station, Bacon wrapped roasted Chicken Breast, Ancho Chili braised Short Ribs and Miso marinated local Halibut. The over-the-top meal is finished off with a selection of sweet and savory desserts, from a Mini Pumpkin Creme Brûlée, a traditional Pecan and Pumpkin Pies and a Cinnamon Streusel Cake.
When:Thursday, November 24, 2014Cost: Adults, $64.95 Seniors (62) $45 Children (6-12) $25, Children 5 years and younger, Complimentary
THE US GRANT: Guests can celebrate the season with THE US GRANT, San Diego Thanksgiving Buffet - a cherished holiday tradition that never ceases to amaze. A bountiful array of seasonal specialties and traditional holiday fare takes guests on an epicurean journey from the warm Spiced Apple Cider welcome to the all-encompassing housemade desserts, paired alongside a freshly brewed cup of specialty coffee and espresso. Along the way, savor fresh salads and soups, specialties from the Land and Sea, Chef Mark’s family recipe Pierogi station, and of course, the traditional Holiday fare of slow roasted Turkey Breast with Stuffing and Gravy, Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Acorn Squash and more. Live music completes the San Diego Thanksgiving holiday in style.
Thursday, November 27
Reservations Available: 12:15 - 4:15 p.m.
Please call 619-744-2039 for Thanksgiving Buffet reservations.

In addition, guests can savor a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, shared with friends and family in the comfort of their home, with the culinary expertise and perfection in planning by THE US GRANT. Let Executive Chef Mark Kropczynski prepare a gourmet ready-to-serve meal that includes traditional Turkey and Stuffing holiday fare as well as his own family-favorite Pierogi and decadent homemade Pumpkin Pie. On Turkey Day, simply follow the warming instructions prior to serving, and enjoy. Whether planning a gathering of four or forty, THE US GRANT San Diego Thanksgiving Catering allows guests to feast without the fuss!
Advance Order Required by 5 p.m. on Friday, November 21
Pick-up will be arranged at your convenience on Wednsday, November 26
Please call 619-744-2039 to place Thanksgiving Catering order today!

The Grant Grill will also be hosting a Thanksgiving Dinner for the modern gourmand! Spend the holiday with Chef Sam Burman in The Grant Grill savoring a special holiday dinner menu, including the option for an a la carte Roasted Turkey entree.
Thursday, November 27
Holiday Dinner Hours: 4-9 p.m.
Reservations Recommended: 619-744-2077