These Barnegat-Manahawkin Restaurants Are Open Thanksgiving, But Get Your Reservation In

Many independent restaurants in the Barnegat-Manahawkin area will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 26, for Thanksgiving. But some local and regional favorites are taking reservations, giving Barnegat-Manahawkin residents a chance to gather around a different table this year.

The appeal isn’t hard to understand. Hosting Thanksgiving can mean days of shopping and preparation for a meal that disappears remarkably fast. Dining out leaves more time for the visiting, with no refrigerator puzzle to solve afterward.

It also makes room for a holiday that doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people are celebrating with a partner or a few friends. Others are meeting family halfway, traveling over the holiday or simply ready to retire the roasting pan for a year.

Around the Barnegat-Manahawkin area, options include:

• Rosie's Ocean Gate (401 Monmouth Ave., Ocean Gate)
• The Office Restaurant and Lounge (820 Main St., Toms River)
• The Gables (212 Centre St., Beach Haven)
• Salt Kitchen at Hotel LBI (350 W. 8th St., Ship Bottom)
• B2 Bistro & Bar (125 Bayview Ave., Bayville)
• Captain's Inn (304 East Lacey Road, Lacey)
• The Waterfront (361 East Lacey Road, Lacey)
• LBI National Golf Resort (99 Golf View Dr., Little Egg Harbor)
• Kristy's Casual Dining (562 Route 9, Waretown)

National chains offer additional choices, from multicourse steakhouse dinners to family restaurants serving turkey and traditional sides. Some also offer their regular menus, welcome news for anyone whose Thanksgiving wishes run more toward a ribeye than a drumstick.

Here’s what we know about national chains that are open and their advertised Thanksgiving specials:

Family Restaurants And Diners

Cracker Barrel: Open regular hours, with its traditional Thanksgiving meal served starting at 11 a.m.

IHOP: Open Thanksgiving; hours vary by location.

Pizza And Fast Food

Pizza Hut: Thanksgiving openings and hours vary by restaurant.

Wendy’s: The chain says many locations open on holidays, including Thanksgiving. Hours vary by restaurant.

McDonald’s: Thanksgiving availability depends on the local operator.

Burger King: Participating restaurants may open Thanksgiving, with hours varying by franchise. Check the selected restaurant in the app or call ahead.

Sonic Drive-In: Thanksgiving participation varies by location.