San Diego hotel restaurants and their amazing chefs have put together creative menus and even some opportunities to take a prepared feast home with you. The list below includes some great restaurants around town that serve special Thanksgiving dinners and even a cruise option.
I’ll keep this list of where to have Thanksgiving dinner in San Diego updated as I hear about even more great ideas from San Diego restaurants, which I’m sure will be hitting my inbox in the coming weeks.
Where to Have Thanksgiving Day Dinner in San Diego
Make a reservation for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner or, better yet, check in to one of the luxury hotels in San Diego.
Hotel del Coronado
The Hotel del Coronado, a top beachfront hotel in San Diego, is serving a special elegant buffet Thanksgiving dinner.
The resort’s sumptuous Thanksgiving feast will be offered this year in the hotel’s new Southpointe Ballroom at the south end of the resort. The Del will prepare a lavish offering set to feature favorite traditional trimmings from a prix fixe menu.
The hotel’s A Twenties Holiday Affair theme will see the resort decorated in stunning 1920s art-deco style for the holiday season. And they will be celebrating the return of their Skating by the Sea event, along with dazzling holiday decor and thousands of holiday lights.
- Thursday, November 23
- Make reservations online
- Price: $195/adult and $100/children (ages 4-10), children under 3 are complimentary
Pendry San Diego
Chef Brandon Sloan has created a delicious 3-course prix fixe menu at Provisional, the restaurant marketplace inside of Pendry San Diego. For your first course, you can choose Potato Leek Soup, Grilled Romaine, Blue Prawns, or Ricotta Agnolotti.
The main course menu will feature Free Range Turkey, Red Wine Braised Short Rib, Mustard Demi Whole Roasted Branzino, and Roasted Honeynut Squash. Finally, for dessert, you can indulge in Pumpkin Cheesecake, Fig and Walnut Pie, or Spiced Chocolate Cake, all paired with an Espresso Martini.
- Thursday, November 23 (from 2:30–8:30 p.m.)
- Price: $105 per adult and $40 per child
- Wine & Spirits Pairings $45
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Nestled in the secluded rolling hills of North County San Diego, and spanning 265 acres of stunning grounds, this elegant hotel is a great escape for your Thanksgiving feast at one of its two following options:
AVANT
The Inn’s signature restaurant, Avant, is hosting a four-course seasonal feast this year, curated by Chef de Cuisine Sergio Jimenez.
- Thursday, November 23, from 4–8 p.m. Reservations required and can be made through OpenTable.
- Price: $125 for adults and $65 per child.
bernado Ballroom
The hotel will also host a Thanksgiving dinner buffet with cocktails, beer, wine, and soda in their Bernado Ballroom this year.
- Thursday, November 23, from 1–4 p.m.
- $135 per adult, $55 per child.
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa capitalizes on its 49 lush acres, beautiful and expansive Croquet lawn, and serene outdoor spaces to host family-style Thanksgiving dinners. A great option for all ages, guests can look forward to crafts for kids, pony rides, a petting zoo, live music, and an exquisite Thanksgiving menu.
- Thursday, November 23, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Price: $195/adult and $55 for children ages 11 and under
Estancia La Jolla Hotel and Spa
If you want to be spoiled away from home rather than host this year, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is a great option. The hotel’s Greenfinch Restaurant will be offering a Thanksgiving Day meal from midday till 8 p.m.
The restaurant is a lovely place to enjoy Thanksgiving on a warm day, thanks to its beautiful open-air balcony overlooking the hotel’s Garden Courtyard. Inside, the decor is aviary-inspired while the restaurant’s popular Greenfinch Bar features a botanical theme.
- Thursday, November 23, from 12–8 p.m., at Greenfinch.
- There’s no fixed option for Thanksgiving dinner, but you can view their menu, including prices per dish here.
Park Hyatt Aviara
If you’re looking for Thanksgiving options in North County San Diego, Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad is an exquisite choice. This luxury resort is less than a ten-minute drive from the beach and is set amongst 200 stunning acres of natural beauty overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon.
The hotel’s Ponto Lago restaurant is hosting a four-course Chef’s Special Feast menu this year. The entree choices are Wood-fired Recado Negro Turkey Breast, 18oz Prime Rib Eye, Catch of the Day, or the Fall Mushroom Paella. A variety of starters, appetizers, and desserts are included in the fixed menu, making up the four courses.
- Thursday, November 23, 4–8.30 p.m.
- $105 for adults, $45 for children (ages 3–12)
la valencia hotel
Also known as The Pink Lady, La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla is a great option for those celebrating Thanksgiving with loved ones in a luxury boutique setting.
The Valencia’s Chef Fabian curated this year’s 3-course Thanksgiving menu. Guests can choose between Orange Blossom Poached Lobster Tail, Agave Cinderella Pumpkin Bisque, or Burrata to start.
Entree options include Prime Omaha New York Strip, Herb Roasted Diestel Turkey, Delicata Roasted Squash, or a Delicata Roasted Squash vegetarian dish, while Pumpkin Pie or Berry Melange Tartlet make up the dessert choices.
- Thursday, November 23, 12:30–7 p.m.
- $130 for adults, with children’s options from $40–$60.
the lodge at Torrey Pines
If feasting on Thanksgiving dinner while enjoying sweeping views of a world-class golf course sounds tempting, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is the place to be.
The hotel is offering a 3-course prix fixe meal this year in their A.R. Valentien restaurant, which was named after the early 20th-century California artist whose works are exhibited around the restaurant.
After Pumpkin Soup and a choice of four first-course dishes, guests can choose from Roasted Turkey and trimmings, Braised Beef Short Rib, Caramelized Sea Scallops, Crispy Skin Black Cod, or the vegetarian dish Autumn Tabbouleh Filled Delicata Squash.
The meal is completed with either Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Cardamom Pot de Crème, or Pear Sticky Toffee Pudding.
- Thursday, November 23, 12–6.30 p.m.
- $150 per adult and $80 per child (12 and under)
fairmont grand del mar
Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers two Thanksgiving dinner options this year in Amaya Restaurant and the Manchester Salon. Known for its elegance and opulence, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar provides a luxurious option to relax with loved ones over what is sure to be an amazing holiday meal.
Amaya will be serving a three-course tasting menu:
- Thursday, November 23, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- $195 per person and $98 per child.
The Manchester Salon will be offering a Thanksgiving Family Style with appetizer and dessert buffet:
- Thursday, November 23, 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- $180 per person and $90 per child
- You can reserve online here for both options above, and there’s a $50 deposit per person.
Don’t forget to check out the full list of Fairmont Grand Del Mar holiday events.
manchester grand hyatt
This striking and iconic Manchester Grand Hyatt offers a Thanksgiving menu at its waterfront Sally’s Fish House & Bar. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and San Diego Bay while dining on a menu including Fall Panzanella Salad, Citrus, Garlic and Thyme Brined Turkey with Pan Gravy Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham, Boursin Whipped Potatoes, Herb Bread Stuffing, Heirloom Baby Carrots, and much more.
If you prefer cozy indoor dining, the same menu will also be served at The Landing in the lobby.
- Thursday, November 23, 12–6.30 p.m.
- Sally’s Fish House & The Landing pre-fixe menu costs $56 per person.
Bleu Boheme
Bleu Boheme is hosting a French-inspired Thanksgiving day dinner. This will be a three-course, prix fixe menu available from 12 noon until 4 p.m.
The menu will feature items such as Pumpkin-Hominy Soup, Fresh Beet Salad, and Crab Croquette for starters. Entrees include Diestel Family Ranch turkey from Sonora, California, Faroe Island Salmon, Beef Short Rib, and Shiitake and Oyster Mushroom Ravioli. Chocolate Mousse, Creme Brulee, and Bread Pudding will round out this exquisite meal.
They will also be serving Pumpkin Pie Martinis for an extra $15.
- Thursday, November 23, 12–4 p.m.
- $75 for adults and $29 for children under 12.
Rustic Root, gaslamp
For a fun city vibe this Thanksgiving, head to Rustic Root in San Diego’s downtown Gaslamp Quarter. This popular restaurant has an intimate dining room setting and a bustling rooftop terrace overlooking the street.
They’ll be serving up holiday classics like herb-roasted turkey breast, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, smoked turkey gravy, and more.
The Thanksgiving meal costs $32 per guest or you can book a 4-person family pack for $100.
huntress restaurant, san diego
This popular and sophisticated steakhouse is known for its unique pairings and theatrical presentation. This Thanksgiving, you can sample Huntress’ chic spin on the classics including Pumpkin Agnolotti, made with roasted pumpkin, pepita gremolata, sage and brown butter, truffle turkey. Or Turkey Roulade with winter greens, confit turkey leg crepinette with sour cherries, and truffle jus or green bean en croute.
Call Huntress at (619) 329 4868 for pricing and reservations.
paradisaea, bird rock
Paradisaea restaurant is housed within the historic 1949 ‘Piano Building’ in the the vibrant coastal neighborhood of Bird Rock in La Jolla. Known for their thoughtfully crafted seasonal dishes, Paradisaea will offer a traditional—albeit with a California-cool twist—Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu.
Check Paradisaea’s website for their Thanksgiving menu and reservations.
westfield utc Mall
This popular and expansive outdoor mall in La Jolla hosts multiple restaurants, but two popular eateries are offering special Thanksgiving meals this year:
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is offering a prix-fixe menu with traditional Thanksgiving options, along with Winery favorites. The 3-course meal starts with a choice of roasted butternut squash bisque or pumpkin and ricotta ravioli, and then entree options include traditional maple-glazed free-range turkey, Zinfandel Braised Short Rib or Jumbo Wild White Shrimp. Finish with classic desserts, including streusel pumpkin pie and chocolate cheesecake.
- Reservations can be made here. Price: $85 per guest & $30 per child 10 and under.
Seasons 52 is hosting a traditional Thanksgiving meal that comes complete with roasted turkey and savory pan gravy, yukon mashed potatoes, herb stuffing, green beans, and cranberry relish. Dessert includes six mini pumpkin pie indulgences in addition to pumpkin mousse.
- Orders can be placed here for pickup on Wednesday, November 22.
harrah’s Resort, funner, ca
You can head to the desert to celebrate Thanksgiving among swaying palms at Harrah’s Resort Southern California. This year, the resort offers Thanksgiving dinner options at its three restaurants: Fiore, ‘ritas Cantina, and The Café.
Check here for details and pricing for all three options. The Café’s option includes an a la Carte menu featuring White and Dark Meat Turkey, Mashed Potatoes with Giblet Gravy, Apple-sage Stuffing Glazed Baby Carrots, and more.
city Cruises
For something different, with spectacular views, hop aboard a City Cruises’ boat at their San Diego port for Thanksgiving Day on the water.
They’re offering a two-hour Premier Brunch Cruise option, which includes a menu of freshly prepared Thanksgiving staples and drinks, including unlimited champagne and live music.
- From $80 per person. Board at 10:30 a.m., and the cruise goes from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
- Book online
- Board at: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego
- Pay-to-park options are available at Grape Street.
Or, in the evening, you can opt for a Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise, a two-and-a-half-hour yacht cruise complete with a Thanksgiving dinner and entertainment.
- From $107 per person. Board at 3:30 p.m., and the cruise goes from 4 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
- Book online
- Board at: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego
- Pay-to-park options are available at Grape Street.
Prepared Chef Meals for Dinner at Home
If you prefer to skip cooking this year, have no fear. San Diego chefs will send you home with full Thanksgiving dinners or even just pumpkin pies.
Rancho Valencia Full Meals
Rancho Valencia will also be offering a full a la carte meal prepped, cooked, packaged, and ready to reheat at home. You can pre-order through the resort’s website with pick-up on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The online order form will be available soon. Check here for updates.
little frenchie, coronado
For a French twist on your Thanksgiving meal this year, Little Frenchie, is offering a touch of Parisian café-inspired bistro charm with their to-go menu:
- Thanksgiving Baked Brie en Croûte | Butter Pastry, Cranberry & Honey Confiture, Candied Pecan, Baguette
- $85 and serves 8 people
- Order between Oct. 23–Nov.15 & pickup on Nov. 22 by 4 p.m.
- Thanksgiving Cheese and Charcuterie Boards | add on Little Frenchie’s Petite Baked Brie en Croûte, Cranberry & Honey Confiture, Candied Pecan for +$35
- Les Amis for 4–6 people: $85, or La Famille for 8–12 people: $125
- Order between Oct. 23–Nov.15 & pickup on Nov. 22 by 4 p.m.
- Thanksgiving Pies ($45 each)
- Apple Crumble Pie | Slow Cooked Granny Smith Apples, Salted Cinnamon Crumble, Creme Fraiche Chantilly
- Pumpkin Pie | House Roasted Pumpkin, Gingersnap Cookies, Vanilla Bean Chantilly
- Bourbon Pecan Pie | Milk Chocolate Chunks, Candied Pecans, Salted Chocolate Mousse
- Caramel Ripple Cheesecake | Shortbread Crust, White Chocolate Mousse, Caramel Drizzle
rancho bernardo inn
The hotel’s Café Granada is offering a special selection of Thanksgiving pies and a cheesecake option that you can pre-order and pick up for your feast at home. You can order here until November 19th, and the options are:
- Traditional Pumpkin Pie with Cinnamon Cream
- Dutch Apple Pie with Caramel Crunch Topping
- Bourbon Pecan Pie with Chocolate Shavings
- Cheesecake with Orange and Cranberry Chef’s Garden Rosemary Compote
- Every option is 9″ wide, and prices start at $35.
Trust me, this list of where to have Thanksgiving dinner in San Diego will grow in the coming weeks. Stay tuned! And, don’t forget that Christmas dinner in San Diego comes next and to also check our list of San Diego holiday events.
