As a transplant to Florida, I do not have any family in this area, so that always makes celebrating the holidays a little different. I think a lot of families in the area can relate to that!

Since there are only four of us in my family, making a big Thanksgiving dinner just isn’t practical. So one of our favorite traditions has been to either cater a Thanksgiving meal from one of our favorite restaurants to enjoy at home (Cooper’s Hawk has been a favorite of ours!) or make a reservation at a local restaurant and dine out on Thanksgiving. There are a plethora of restaurants in the area that offer a traditional Thanksgiving meal. From restaurants at Disney Springs to the greater Orlando area; there is no shortage of where you can dine out on Thanksgiving Day. 

The Wonderful World of Disney

Let’s start with Walt Disney World. My kids love any reason to visit Disney World, and Thanksgiving day is no different! Disney can be an extra fun way to dine out on Thanksgiving day; especially since most of the resorts are already decorated for Christmas by this time. We love taking our time to stroll around the different resorts as well as Disney Springs to look at all the Christmas decorations!

Disney World Parks

If you will be in a Disney theme park on Thanksgiving, be on the look out for special menus from places like California Grill, Hollywood and Vine, Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room, Liberty Tree Tavern, and Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge Resort – as these places have had special meals in the past!

  •  Via Napoli Ristorante : The Italian eatery has debuted a Fall-inspired pizza, the Autunno, topped with butternut squash, fresh ricotta, fried crispy prosciutto and arugula, available until Nov. 30. This dish is perfectly paired with the new Amaro Sour cocktail — made with Artichoke-infused Amaro ($18). The pizza is $25 for an individual, $42 for large (serves 2-3), or $58 for mezzo metro (serves 3-4).

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a great place to dine out on Thanksgiving day if you want that Disney touch, but want to avoid going into the parks and navigating those crowds!

Disney Springs is a great place to dine out on Thanksgiving day if you want that Disney touch, but want to avoid going into the parks and navigating those crowds!

  • Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant: Pricing: $39.99 for adults, $19.99 for children.
  • Paddlefish Restaurant: Pricing: $32 for adults and $12 for children.
  • Terralina Crafted Italian: Pricing: $32 for adults, $12 for children.
  • City Works Eatery & Pour House: Pricing: $35 – $50 for adults, $20 for children under 11.
  • Wine Bar George: a traditional turkey plate as well as the usual menu.
  • Summer House on the Lake: three-course, prix fixe menu of holiday favorites with a coastal twist. Pricing: $69.95 adults, $14.95 children under 13.
  • The Edison: will be offering a few specials just for Thanksgiving Day, in addition to their full menu of flavorful comfort foods and crafted cocktails.
    • Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner: Roasted heritage turkey, herbed stuffing, dreamy mash, house gravy, green bean casserole. $39, Children’s version also available for $18
    • Pumpkin Cheesecake: whipped cream, crunchy caramel pearls, caramel sauce. $15

    Be sure to also pair it with a Fall cocktail, available Nov. 1 – Dec. 31:

    • Fall for You: Angel’s Envy, Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, spiced apple tincture, Fee foam, lemon juice, ghost leaf. $18
    • Peppermint Patty: peppermint-infused vodka, Caffè Borghetti espresso liqueur, Tempus crème de cacao, half-crushed peppermint rim. $16
    • Cosmic Poinsettia: infused Stoli Elit, Belle de Brillet pear brandy, St. George spiced pear, cinnamon syrup, lime juice. $30
    • Cup o’ Cheer (Non Alcoholic): apple cider, cinnamon syrup, cranberry juice, lemon juice. $12
  • Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’: Homecomin’ Holiday Turkey Sandwich from November 24th, 2024 through January 1st, 2025.
  • Earl of Sandwich: Special Thanksgiving options include the Holiday Ham (ham, cinnamon sweet potato mash, cranberry sauce and cheddar cheese) and the Holiday Turkey (turkey, cornbread stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce and mayonnaise).
  • Pizza Pointe: On Thanksgiving and throughout the Fall season, sip on a delicious Orchard Chill at Pizza Ponte. Made with Absolut Vanilia, Pinnacle salted caramel, apple cider, allspice dram, this cocktail is the perfect accompaniment to the largest pizza slice on Disney property. Available Nov. 1 – Dec. 31 for $8.95.
  • Jaleo, STK, Maria & Enzo’s and Enzo’s Hideaway have had Thanksgiving meals in the past but have not announced plans for 2024 yet.

Universal Studios

Thanksgiving Dinner Options Across Orlando

If going to Disney on Thanksgiving doesn’t sound like your jam. There are lots of restaurants around town offering a fantastic menu for your Thanksgiving dinner this year! We have found quite a few options for you to choose from around town! 

Various Locations:

4 Rivers Smokehouse: Entree options include smoked turkey, boneless ham, signature angus brisket, smoked salmon or prime rib, all paired with your choice of a la carte sides and desserts. For dinner made easy, pick your protein and add the Fixins Package, which includes six sides to feed 4 to 6 people. Order by Nov. 23 at 5 p.m. for pickup on Nov. 27. Pricing: $39.99 – $199.00 proteins, $67.69 Fixins Package, $32.99 Pies, $10.99 a la carte sides.

Greater Orlando Area:

  • The Alfond Inn at Rollins (Winter Park): Chef-driven buffet with seatings at 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
    Pricing: $138 for adults, $60 for children.
  • Lakeside Bar and Grill at Celebration Hotel (Celebration): Will offer Turducken as part of their Grateful Thanksgiving Holiday Buffet. Available from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
    Pricing: $65 for adults, $25 for children 6-12, and under 6 free. *
  • Park Avenue Tavern (Winter Park): A family style Thanksgiving meal.
    Pricing: $65 for adults, $25 for children (under 12)
  • Aurora at the Celeste: From 11AM – 5PM, your family will be treated to seasonal displays that tie in the flavors of autumn. From traditional breakfast favorites and creative twists on classics to chef-attended carving stations, fall-inspired pasta, and sushi, there will be something for everyone! Enjoy bottomless mimosas and an assortment of sweet treats. Reservations required.
    Pricing: $99 for adults, $30 for children (under 12), FREE (under 4)
  • 1921 Mount Dora: Three- course Thanksgiving dinner –
    Pricing: $72 for adults, $25 for children under 14 (vegetarian options available)
  • Highball & Harvest: Thanksgiving buffet from 3 – 9PM
  • Knife & Spoon: Traditional Thanksgiving meal from 5:30 – 10PM
  • JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes
    • Citron – Thanksgiving Buffet 3 – 8PM
    • Primo – Thanksgiving Buffet 5:30 – 10PM

  • Canvas: Traditional Thanksgiving meal. Pricing: $65 per person or $48 a la carte. 

  • Nami Lake Nona: three-wave dining experience, specifically designed to capture the essence of the season. Pricing: $$95 per person

  • Chroma at Lake Nona: 3 course Thanksgiving menu Pricing: $65 per person or a Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast a la carte for $48.

  • Canvas Restaurant & Market: Pricing: $65 per person or $48 a la carte.

  • Mission Resort + Club: Thanksgiving Grand Brunch Buffet at La Hacienda Restaurant from 11AM – 4PM. Add-on packages for the mimosa, bellini and Bloody Mary bars will also be available. Pricing: $70 adults, $25 children 5 – 12, children under 5 free.

International Drive

  • The Wilson at Melia Hotel: Three course Thanksgiving dinner, served family style.
    Pricing: $65 adults, $25 (under 12)
  • Cafe Tu Tu Tango: Enjoy carving stations featuring Cajun Marinated Turkey Breast and sides like traditional corn bread stuffing. Don’t miss our delicious pumpkin pie cheesecake for dessert! 11AM – 4PM!
    Pricing: $39.22 per person
  • Rosen Plaza Hotel: Thanksgiving Day Brunch buffet from 11:30AM – 4:30PM. Unlimited Champagne and Mimosas (21+).
    Pricing: $58.95 adults, children 4-11 $26.95, children under 3 free
  • Tradewinds at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld: Will serve a holiday buffet from 1 – 6PM
    Pricing: $70 for adults, $23 for children under 13
  • Mia’s Italian Kitchen: Three-course menu of Thanksgiving favorites with a homestyle Italian twist.
    Pricing: $39 per person
  • Four Flamingos, A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen: Thanksgiving Brunch 11AM – 5PM
    Pricing: $110 Adult, $55 children
  • Rosen Centre Hotel: Celebrate Thanksgiving Day with a bountiful buffet and unlimited champagne and Mimosas. From 11:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
    Pricing: $64.95 for adults, $27.95 for children 4-12, and children under 3 free
  • Rosen Shingle Creek 
    • Cafe’ Osceola: Thanksgiving Brunch 11AM – 6PM
      Pricing: $89.95 for adults, $37.95 for children 4-11, and children 3 and under free
  • A Land Remembered: Thanksgiving dinner 5:30 – 10:00 p.m.
    Pricing: $85.95 for adults, $37.95 for children

Lake Buena Vista

  • Caribe Royale Orlando

    • Stadium Club: Open face turkey pot pie, with buttery mashed potatoes, asparagus and cranberry relish, $21. Warm shaved baked ham & brie, with toasted brioche bun, dried cherry aioli and sliced tomato. Served with sweet potato or regular fries, $18. Smoked turkey leg with brussel sprouts. Served with sweet potato or regular fries, $19. Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake, with whipped white chocolate ganache, fall chocolate deco, caramel sauce, $15.

    • The Venetian Chop House: elegant pre fixe menu from 3 – 8PM.
      • Pricing: $95 per guest
    • Tropicale: Brunch favorites from 12 – 4PM, with marshmallow fluff-topped pumpkin pies and an array of delightful desserts will make your little ones smile, while savory items and an elaborate carving station will tempt the grown-ups in your group.
      • Pricing: $78 per adult, $25 (ages 4 -10)
  • Orlando World Center Marriott: Buffet Style from 1 – 8PM at Latitude & Longitude Restaurant.
    Pricing: $75 per person

  • Sear + Sea at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek: 3 Course Thanksgiving Dinner including 1 glass of Taittinger Champagne, amuse bouche and sear + sea style inspired dishes.
    Pricing: $$110 for adults, $50 for children (aged 4 – 12), 3 and under free.

  • The Wharf at Sunset Walk: Laidback, traditional Thanksgiving meal.
    Pricing: $30 per guest

    • Cowboy Chicken – Now through Dec. 31, enjoy seasoned-by-hand, juicy turkeys in plates for one or as a part of a package for the whole family. The Rotisserie Turkey Package ($145) feeds 10 and boasts a mouthwatering 10- to 12-pound wood-fire rotisserie turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, country-style stuffing, 12 dinner rolls and peach cobbler. The NEW Sliced Turkey Breast Family Meal ($44) feeds four and includes a choice of two sides, country-style stuffing, rolls and a choice of dessert. The popular Turkey Plate is also back, a perfect meal for one. Learn more here.
    • Bento Asian Kitchen – Enjoy the taste of Asia this holiday season. Through Dec. 31, buy four catering platters and get one free using the code HOLIDAYEATS. Visit catering.eatatbento.com to learn more and to purchase.
  • Estefan Kitchen: Fried Turkey Lechon Asado Takeout Special ($225). Serving six to eight people, the meal must be ordered no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 25, for pickup on Thanksgiving from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. The restaurant will also have a special Thanksgiving menu available for in-person dining from 5 – 10 p.m.
  • Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista:  Buffet served from 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    Prepaid pricing: $35.95 for adults, $17.99 for children, 4-11, and under 3 free. A higher rate of $41.99 per adult will be charged for non-prepaid reservations and walk-ins.
  • Four Seasons
    • Ravello: Modern Italian Thanksgiving Day buffet from 1 – 8PM, Enjoy a selection of seafood, a variety of salads, individually plated favourites and carving stations.
      Pricing: $155 for adults, $55 for children (2 – 12).
  • Plancha: Will serve with a selection of composed salads, seafood and carving stations from 12 – 7PM.
    Pricing: $135 for adults, $48 for children (2 – 12).
  • Waldorf Astoria Orlando
    • Bull & Bear:  Four-course Thanksgiving dinner 6 – 10PM.
      Pricing: $155 for adults, $65 for children 12 and under
    • La Luce: Celebrate Thanksgiving with dinner at La Luce featuring a list of specials consisting of Chef’s fall favorites. A la carte La Luce menu also available. 
    • Oscar’s: will feature a holiday family buffet.
      Pricing: $85 for adults, $40 for children 6 – 12 
    • Harvest Bistro: a traditional holiday dinner buffet.
      Pricing: $65 for adults, $35 for children 6 – 12
    • In-Room Dining: Guests can A selection of a la carte Thanksgiving favorites will be available for in-room dining delivered straight to their room from 6 – 11PM.
  • Brio Italian Grille will be open on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28, from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. for dine-in, offering a Traditional Turkey Day menu, complete with sliced white turkey meat and the classic sides, plus its menu of everyone’s favorite Italian specialties to add to one’s feast.

  • Encore Resort at Reunion: Savor a delicious holiday feast delivered directly to your luxurious vacation home, featuring all your favorite Thanksgiving dishes for an unforgettable celebration Pricing: Full Order (serves 7 to 9 adults): $250+, Half Order (serves 4 to 6 adults): $150+

Black Friday Brunch:

  • The Hampton Social: Black Friday brunch the day after Thanksgiving, perfect for fueling up between shopping sprees. Score steak and eggs, crabcakes benedict, and more a la carte specials paired with rosé and classic cocktails

Even though the holidays look different for a lot of families living here, dining out on Thanksgiving Day is one of my favorite things to do! With its diverse culinary scene and warm hospitality, Thanksgiving dinner in Central Florida is an experience like no other.

More importantly, remember that Thanksgiving is not just about savoring the culinary masterpieces but also enjoying the laughter, stories, and shared memories. Give thanks for the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful city and its rich tapestry of flavors.

From our table to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

First published 11/3/23, updated 10/28/24 

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