
Featured articles
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Featured articles
Everything SD
Everything SD
Features
Featured articles
Things to Do
Things to Do
Everything SD
Featured articles
podcast-ep
podcast-ep
podcast-ep
Featured articles
Features
Features
Features
Featured articles
Things to Do
Things to Do
Charitable SD
Ready to know more about San Diego?
SubscribeReady to know more about San Diego?
Let these 20 local spots do all the cooking (and cleanup!)
Herb & Wood
James Tran
Give thanks with family at the Grand this Thanksgiving. At Amaya, they’ll be serving a three-course tasting menu inspired by fall’s most iconic flavors and holiday classics. Reservations required. $175 per person
5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley
Give your Thanksgiving meal a French twist at this Kensington mainstay. Available from noon to 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving, the three-course menu includes roasted turkey, salmon, beef short rib, duck confit, or mushroom ravioli for main entrée selections, each served with their own set of sides. Be sure to save room for one of four desserts, including crème brûlée, brioche bread pudding, and chocolate mousse. An exclusive pumpkin cocktail will also be on the menu to toast to this fall holiday. $69 for adults, $25 for children under 12
4090 Adams Avenue, Kensington
Caramel Apple Pie cocktail at Breakfast Republic
Make breakfast the main meal this year at Breakfast Republic. They’re offering fall specials on Thanksgiving, including the almond and fig French toast and their Caramel Apple Pie cocktail, made with caramel vodka, butterscotch schnapps, apple cider, and caramel apple butter syrup. French toast $13, cocktail $10
Multiple locations
Travis Swikard’s Thanksgiving spread includes family-style dishes with a Callie twist, including turkey with Tuscan sage sausage and brown-butter-cranberry sauce, pumpkin ravioli, lamb shank, and slow-baked salmon. And since leftovers are one of the best parts of the holiday, guests will also receive a leftover turkey sandwich to take home. Reservations are required for the family-style dinner served from noon to 6:30 p.m., and an à la carte menu will be available at the bar for walk-ins. $80 for adults with an optional $50 wine pairing; $35 for children 10 and under
1195 Island Avenue, East Village
Cardellino
James Tran
Wow your guests this year with a feast made up of dishes from each of Brad Wise’s Trust Restaurant Group restaurants. The roasted red beet salad comes from Fort Oak, The Wise Ox is serving up an Italian sausage stuffing, and from Trust itself, a cauliflower casserole—and that’s only a few of the dishes on the menu. Don’t worry, your meal also includes a 20-pound turkey sourced locally and ready for the oven. The feast serves six to eight people and must be ordered ahead of time to be picked up on November 24. $325
4033 Goldfinch Street, Mission Hills
Take your pick from a Thanksgiving brunch or dinner at Estancia’s two restaurants: Greenfinch and Mustangs and Burros. Brunch is offered at Greenfinch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with mimosas, bloody marys, a French toast station, eggs made to order, and more. Beginning at 4 p.m., Mustangs and Burros is serving a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings. Reservations are encouraged. Brunch is $85 for adults, free for children under five
9700 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla
This Mission Hills restaurant is offering a three-course set menu from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving featuring braised lamb shank, short rib, and a traditional roasted turkey plate served with all the classic sides. Save room for a slice of apple or pecan pie topped with homemade cinnamon whipped cream. $70 for adults, $25 for kids 10 and under
860 West Washington Street, Mission Hills
At Herb & Sea, Thanksgiving dinner main stars include herb-and-citrus-marinated turkey and red-wine-braised short rib. Pair that with family-style sides and starters like whipped butter mashed potatoes and kuri pumpkin soup, before digging into apple or pumpkin pie with chai spiced ice cream. The dinner is offered from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving and will also be available at Herb & Wood in Little Italy. Reservations required. $85 for adults, $35 for children
131 West D Street, Encinitas; 2210 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy
Juniper & Ivy
Take the taste of Juniper and Ivy home with you this year with their no-fuss Thanksgiving pickup meal. The Holiday Feast menu comes with turkey (raw but fully brined, trussed, and complete with baking instructions), sides like chestnut stuffing and sweet potato casserole, Parker House rolls, and Brussels sprouts with glazed carrots. Additional options like miso pumpkin pie, cocktail mixes, and a four-pack of sommelier-selected wines are available to round out your meal. Only 25 feasts are available and must be reserved to be picked up from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on November 24. $330 for the Holiday Feast (serves 6–8), $35 for pumpkin pie (serves 8–10), $100–$150 for wine pairings, $45–$68 for cocktail mixes
2228 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy
Pumpkin lobster bisque and braised pork belly accompany traditional Thanksgiving dishes on Jrdn’s three-course menu. You can also add desserts and wine pairings to toast to another holiday spent beside the beach. Available on Thanksgiving Day from noon to 8 p.m. Entrées start at $45
723 Felspar Street, Pacific Beach
The Pink Lady’s on-site restaurant is offering a three-course prix fixe menu this Thanksgiving. On chef Timothy Ralphs’s menu you’ll find festive dishes including curried kabocha squash soup, cornbread stuffing, beef tenderloin, and of course, turkey. Reservations are required. $95 for adults, $20–$36 for kids under 12
1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla
At this French-Californian fine dining restaurant, take your pick from a roasted turkey or pepper-crusted prime beef fillet for your main and pair it with classic veggie sides. Other Mille Fleurs staples will remain on the menu, including their wienerschnitzel and smoked sturgeon. Save room for one of their sweet treats, like pumpkin cheesecake or ginger-spiced crème brûlée. Starting at $89 per person, additional sides are $10 each
6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe
Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal with an impressive skyline backdrop at Mister A’s. The fine dining mainstay is serving a prix fixe menu with classics like roasted turkey and prime rib served alongside creative twists on traditional sides, including butternut squash agnolotti, beet salad, and mushroom risotto. There will also be wine pairings, and be sure to save room for some fall desserts (pumpkin crème brûlée, apple almond tart) to complete your holiday meal. Starting at $89 per person
2550 Fifth Avenue, Bankers Hill
Go for an Italian twist on Thanksgiving at Operacaffe. Their Italian-Style Turkey Plate comes with bacon-wrapped turkey filled with a lamb-beef blended stuffing, roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. $26 per person
835 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Ranch 45
Ranch 45’s pick-up feast comes with main course choices of herb-crusted prime rib, smoked turkey legs, or smoked Cornish hen. Once you’ve made your pick, select your favorite sides (smashed potatoes, rainbow carrots, and green beans all accounted for) and sweet treats to complete your Thanksgiving meal. Orders are accepted online now through November 21 at 4 p.m.
512 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach
Blackberry Nostalgia cocktail at Rancho Bernardo Inn
At Avant, guests can indulge in a four-course Thanksgiving dinner from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. with highlights like duck confit, squash lasagna, and a wagyu strip loin. At Veranda, their Thanksgiving specials include garden herb and apple stuffing and ginger-orange carrots, available from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Avant: $115 for adults, $55 for children under 12; Veranda: $45 per person
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo
Rancho Valencia is celebrating Thanksgiving the Southern California way with a festive outdoor lawn setup. Enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, and a full buffet with delicious offerings like slow-roasted turkey, Faroe Islands salmon, short ribs, sides, and a selection of desserts. Reservations required. $165 for adults, $55 for children (no charge for kids under three)
5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe
This La Mesa restaurant is offering both on-site and to-go options for Thanksgiving this year. Their smoked turkey is served alongside mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Preorder your takeout feast by November 18; the on-site meal will be served on November 25 while supplies last. Takeout options: $120 for 4–6 people or $230 for 8–12 people. On-site: $35 per person.
5465 Lake Murray Boulevard, La Mesa
Head to The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa for a filling Thanksgiving spread from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. with dishes like a harvest vegetable coconut curry, pan-seared bass, and braised short rib. Classics are accounted for, too, like slow-roasted turkey, whipped potatoes, candied yams, and chocolate pecan pie. Reservations are encouraged. $98 for adults, $35 for children 12 and under
5480 Grand Pacific Drive, Carlsbad
For the nontraditionalists, Valentina will be serving their classic menu of oysters, steak tartare, and steak frites for Thanksgiving, along with an extensive wine list featuring vinos from around the world. For those who still love a Thanksgiving feast, the restaurant will be offering a plate with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, acorn squash, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Preorder on OpenTable; reservations are encouraged. $58 per person
810 North Coast Highway 101, Leucadia
This restaurant at the InterContinental San Diego is serving up bayfront views to pair with their Thanksgiving prix fixe feast. The three-course meal includes all the classics (pickle-brined turkey, autumn squash, sweet corn risotto), and dessert options like their pumpkin cheesecake. Reservations are encouraged. $75 for adults, $35 for children 12 and under, $35 per person wine pairings
901 Bayfront Court, Embarcadero
Choose from more than 30 local restaurants offering holiday feasts for a sit-down or take-out meal with friends and family
It’s nearly Thanksgiving, and this year’s selection of prix-fixe, to-go, and specialty menus from restaurants in San Diego will satisfy any craving. Between mouthwatering turkey buffets, oven-ready prepared meals, and desserts you’ll be dreaming about for months, everyone can enjoy the only thing better than a home-cooked meal: One you don’t have to make yourself. Here are 30 San Diego restaurants—including some of the city’s best—that are serving Thanksgiving dinner this year.
Dinner Specials | Buffets | Take-Home Meals

Named after The Inn’s designer and architect, Lilian Rice, Lilian’s is serving a four-course dinner for $125 this Thanksgiving. The Rancho Santa Fe restaurant is offering options for each course, including perfectly fried and crispy squash blossoms, slow-roasted beets with creamy burrata, and a fall-off-the-bone 24-hour brandt beef short rib plate. Complement your meal with the restaurant’s iconic specialty drinks. Reservations are now available.
Cafe Champagne at Thornton Winery in Temecula will host an all-day Thanksgiving affair, during which attendees should expect a memorable experience where they can indulge in a choose-your-own three-course meal alongside award-winning wines. Classic entrees will include butter truffle roasted turkey with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, or butternut squash ravioli and focaccia bread. The meal will run from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and reservations are required via Opentable.
In Barrio Logan, the food-truck-turned-brick-and-mortar Lia’s Lumpia is renowned for its mouth-watering Filipino menu. Owner Spencer Hunter and his mother—the eponymous Lia—will be offering preorders for Thanksgiving Day to-go boxes until November 26. Will you get the pork belly deviled eggs or turkey holiday lumpia? The mango-glazed ham or cornish game hen adobo? Just make sure you save room for the pan de sal stuffing and persimmon green beans, maybe with a side of the toasted rice vanilla ice cream.

Founded by award-winning restaurateur and San Diego native Johnny Rivera, this Hillcrest, Michelin-guide darling will be open for brunch from 8:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., serving a special of fried turkey, eggs, and pumpkin pecan caramel pancakes. Those who prefer a later Turkey day meal can join them for dinner starting at 11:30 a.m., or pick up one of Great Maple’s dinner boxes for two or four that includes a starter, salad, entree, and sweet from 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. the same day. This year, there will also be a special pie pickup—key lime or pumpkin with gingersnap crust—on both Wednesday, November 27, and Thursday, November 28. For reservations and pickup information, visit here.
On November 14, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., some of San Diego’s most decorated and respected chefs will join together to prepare a meal of their favorite Thanksgiving dishes, alongside carefully-selected wine pairings from The Prisoner Wine Company. Taste some of the city’s best of the best: duck carnitas from executive chef Roberto Alcocer of Valle Oceanside, dynamite lobster mac and cheese from executive chef Steven Ruiz at Lionfish, juicy turkey meatball with soy glaze from executive chef Brandon Sloan at Pendry San Diego, and pumpkin bars or a dark chocolate truffle torte for dessert. A portion of the proceeds will go to the San Diego Food Bank.
Julie Bogen is an experienced writer and digital strategist whose work has been featured in The Atlantic, The 19th News, Cosmopolitan Magazine, and more. She is passionate about storytelling that centers women and marginalized communities, and when not working she's either with her family or in a barre studio.
Give thanks to San Diego chefs putting a gourmet spin on your holiday meal
If you’re looking for a little extra something to be thankful for, San Diego’s only Michelin-starred restaurant is offering an eight-course dining experience, featuring holiday classics reimagined through the lens of California gastronomy prepared by chef William Bradley. The menu experience is $295 per person, with optional wine pairings available for $275. Service is from 5 to 8 p.m., and reservations for the terrace can be made via OpenTable.
5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar | 858-314-1900
Enjoy a family-style three-course prix fixe menu at the Bahia Resort Hotel. Choose from three Thanksgiving dinner entrée options: traditional carved turkey dinner, slow-roasted prime rib, or winter vegetable hash. If you prefer to dine at home, take your Thanksgiving meal to go. The cost is $49 per adult, $28 per child. Preorder by Tuesday, November 24 at 11 a.m.
998 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay | 858-539-7635
No turkeys will be harmed for this restaurant’s vegan-friendly à la carte Thanksgiving menu, which is available throughout November. Items include cranberry roasted butternut squash and garnet yams, maple miso brussels sprouts, and a persimmon and pomegranate salad. Holiday pies are also available for pickup through online preorders.
1980 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 619-736-5077
Enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu at Oceana Coastal Kitchen. For $59 per person, each dinner includes a Champagne toast as well as entrée options like oak-smoked turkey breast or Harris Ranch rib eye. Leave room for a dessert of classic pumpkin pie, baked-to-order brownie, or Grand Marnier crème brûlée. They also offer a family-style takeout option for parties of four or eight for $45 per person. Preorder by Tuesday, November 24 at 11 a.m.
3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Bay | 858-539-8635
Celebrate Thanksgiving the San Diegan way, with ocean views, alfresco dining, and a four-course feast. The special will be offered on Thursday, November 26 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at $95 per person. The menu includes spins on Thanksgiving classics like heritage-breed roasted turkey with whipped potatoes, green beans, and white pepper gravy, in addition to decadent offerings like an 1855 Beef prime rib and chocolate miso budino.
1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar | 858-793-6467
Whether you are hosting for two or for 12, Gelson’s Simply Delicious Dinners are precooked and ready to heat, serve, and enjoy at home. This year’s offerings include small, medium, and large whole roasted turkeys, half and whole spiral glazed hams, whole slow-roasted brisket, prime rib, and plant-based roast options. Order by November 24 and pick up November 20–December 1 at any of Gelson’s San Diego locations. Gelson’s will close early Thanksgiving Day, and all pickups that day should be completed by 1 p.m.
Multiple locations | 818-377-6494
The Lemon Grove eatery will be open for its first Thanksgiving, offering an all-day menu from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Giardino’s family-style menu features à la carte items meant for sharing. Choose from entrées like prime rib or butternut squash ravioli, and holiday sides and salads. And don’t forget wine to pair with your meal! Want to keep things traditional? The eatery is also offering a classic turkey dinner which you can enjoy there or take to go.
8131 Broadway, Lemon Grove | 619-825-7112
If someone with food allergies is joining you this Thanksgiving, don’t fret! This North Park bakery is all gluten free, offering everything from traditional pumpkin pie and pecan pie to other gluten-free items like pasta, multigrain dinner rolls, quiche, mini banana-bread loaves, and more. If you want to bake your own pie at home, the bakery is also selling an allergen-free vegan pie crust dry mix and vegan frozen pie crust (bottom crust only). Order online at least three days in advance.
4594 30th Street, North Park | 858-270-9863
Available for curbside pickup, this decadent family-style Thanksgiving feast includes chimney-roasted turkey with duck-fat-braised thighs, cornbread pecan stuffing, cranberry relish, pumpkin mousse, and more. The cost is $85 per person with a two-person minimum. Preorder by 12 p.m. on Thursday, November 19.
11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla |858-453-4420
Ramen lovers can still get in on the celebrations with one of Menya Ultra’s Thanksgiving home kit specials. Preorder a home kit, complete with broth, noodles, turkey, and classic ramen toppings, through their Google form by November 22.
8199 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Clairemont | 858-571-2010
8141 Mira Mesa Boulevard, Mira Mesa | 858-397-2247
Make a reservation at this ocean-view eatery to enjoy their popular Thanksgiving menu. For $65, the multicourse menu will include a choice of a starter and an entrée, such as oven-roasted free-range turkey with the fixings, slow-cooked Angus prime rib, zinfandel-braised beef short ribs, or Pacifica’s seafood classics. End on a sweet note with your choice of dessert. Kids 12 and under can select from the kids’ menu for $20.
1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar | 858-792-0476
This Bankers Hill bistro will be offering Thanksgiving packages for takeout, which will include roasted butternut squash soup, roasted organic turkey, beef bourguignon, an assortment of sides, and two desserts. Prices range from $80 to $320 and can feed up to eight people.
Pickup times are from 12 to 3 p.m.
760 Fifth Avenue, Bankers Hill | 619-795-1501
Herb & Wood, Herb & Sea, and Animae are joining forces to offer a to-go meal combining all of chef Brian Malarkey’s Thanksgiving favorites, including herb- and citrus-marinated turkey, crème fraîche mashed potatoes and whipped butter, house country wheat stuffing, apple and pear pie, and more. The cost is $59 per person and is available for preorder at herbandwood.com. Pickup is at Herb & Wood.
2210 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 610-955-8495
Ranch 45’s à la carte Thanksgiving pickup menu is perfect for those picky eaters in the family. Customize your Thanksgiving feast with choices from herb-crusted prime rib and smoked turkey leg to smoked Cornish game hens, olive oil smashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, apple pie, and more. The butcher shop and eatery will be accepting orders up to 48 hours in advance.
512 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach | 858-461-0092
Enjoy a four-course ice cream feast with flavors inspired by classic American Thanksgiving dishes, with a twist. The offerings include cranberry juniper sorbet, sweet potato casserole with maple pecans, roasted peach and sage cornbread stuffing, and salted caramel Thanksgiving turkey. Flavors are available by the scoop or pint at Salt & Straw shops, as well as online. Guests visiting Salt & Straw locations can also preorder in advance for either pickup or local delivery.
1670 India Street, Little Italy | 619-542-9394
3705 Caminito Court, Del Mar | 858-345-1792
For outdoor dining, delivery, or pickup, STK Steakhouse will be offering a menu with classic Thanksgiving dishes from November 26 through November 29, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy a roasted turkey special with all the fixings for $49 per adult or $29 per child 12 and under. For $100, they are also offering “Takeout Dinner for Two”: two prepared meals that come with pumpkin pie.
600 F Street, East Village | 619-354-5988
Chef Brad Wise’s Thanksgiving to-go features some of his family’s favorites, along with holiday classics. Feast on oven-roasted turkey, Italian sausage stuffing, and truffled macaroni and cheese. The meal also includes a 12-ounce bag of Cardellino’s house blend coffee beans and a recipe for a cranberry-infused cocktail. The meal is $295 and feeds two to eight people. Orders must be placed by November 19 and picked up on November 26 at Cardellino from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
4033 Goldfinch Street, Mission Hills | 619-600-5311
STK Steakhouse
They'll do the dishes, too.
Just one more thing to be thankful for: a meal cooked by someone else. Forget slicing, dicing, basting, and clean-up thanks to these San Diego restaurants offering multi-course meals, prix fixe menus, and even buffets. They can’t guarantee an entirely stress-free turkey day, but at least someone else will do the dishes.
Guests will walk away stuffed from this three-course meal including a choice of a winter harvest salad or roasted butternut squash soup; a choice of top sirloin, herb crusted turkey breast and thigh, or wild salmon; and a third course of either pumpkin pie or rustic fall apple tart. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Price: $49 for adults | $20 for children ages 3 to 11
Address: 2223 El Cajon Boulevard
Want to kick off the holiday early? Spend time with friends at Louisiana Purchase’s Friendsgiving Chef’s Table enjoying Chef Quinnton “Q” Austin’s take on Thanksgiving from the south.
Date: November 19
Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Price: $100 per person
Address: 2305 University Avenue
Truck the whole family to this chic American eatery, where the following are on the menu: Spiced lobster bisque, marinated heirloom tomatoes, mini lump crab cakes, fresh roasted turkey, rosemary roasted prime rib, forest mushroom risotto, and sweet yams with toasted marshmallow. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: Brunch from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dinner from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Price: $49 for adults | $15 for children 13 and under | $25 optional wine pairing
Address: 1451 Washington Street
Options à la carte are endless at The Marine Room. Pick and choose appetizers, entrées, and sweets, including red walnut-crusted blue crab cake, Maine lobster bisque, ale-brined turkey breast, center cut filet mignon, heirloom carrot ginger risotto, gluten-free three-layered Callebaut chocolate mousse, salted caramel cheesecake, and espresso and vanilla bean cobblestone pie.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Price: Varies
Address: 2000 Spindrift Drive
Thanksgiving at Eddie V’s promises a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Got a picky eater who’s not in the mood for turkey? Their full dinner menu will be available as well. Reservations required.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Price: $43 for adults | $15 for children
Address: 1270 Prospect Street
where to have thanksgiving in San Diego acqua
Photo by Walter Wilson/Crave Imagery
All the fall flavors are found in this four-course meal: Spiced pumpkin soup, mushroom ravioli, butternut squash risotto, and of course roasted turkey. Reservations required.
Date: November 28
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Price: $63 for adults | $19 for children
Address: Hilton San Diego Resort and Spa, 1775 East Mission Bay Drive
Spend Thanksgiving at the Bahia, accompanied by live piano, views of Mission Bay, and festive fare—including two carving stations, salmon, pork loin, butternut squash ravioli, and seasonal desserts. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Price: $56 for adults | $25 for children ages 5 to 11 | Free for children under 5
Address: 998 W Mission Bay Drive
The Duck Dive’s traditional turkey dinner is served all day until supplies run out. Call to learn more about their holiday partnerships with Foster Kids of San Diego, the Polinsky Center, and San Diego Foster Angels.
Date: November 22
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Price: $15 for traditional turkey dinner
Address: 4650 Mission Boulevard
Enjoy stunning views of Mission Bay and live acoustic guitar at the Catamaran’s annual Thanksgiving brunch buffet. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Price: $62 for adults | $25 for children ages 5 to 11 | Free for children under 5
Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard
Del Frisco’s will showcase a premium three-course menu with favorites such as slow roasted turkey breast with apple-sausage stuffing and all the trimmings, plus seasonal dessert options like pecan pie à la mode. Reservations required.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Price: $59 per person
Address: 901 Bayfront Court, Suite 105
Head down to the Gaslamp for a delicious three-courser. Pick your starter and dessert, then enjoy a main course of andouille-stuffed turkey roulade with garlic mashed potatoes, brown ale biscuit stuffing, Brussels sprout casserole and roasted baby carrots.
Date: November 28
Time: Begins at 2 p.m., call for availability
Price: $45 per person
Address: 600 Fifth Avenue
Take a three-hour cruise around San Diego Bay with a Thanksgiving dinner buffet, plus champagne, wine, cocktails and a DJ.
Date: November 28
Time: Boarding at 2:30 p.m.
Prince: $104 per person
Address: Board at 1800 N. Harbor Drive
Put an Italian spin on Thanksgiving with both Cesarina’s specialty and regular menus. They’ll be serving two Thanksgiving-inspired pastas including Lasagna Zucca e Tacchino and Ravioli Patate e Taccino. Or, go traditional with Arrosto di Taccino, thinly sliced roasted turkey with homemade demi, sweet potato mash, fagiolini all’agro and cranberry sauce. By the end, you’ll be saying “grazie“—guaranteed. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: Dinner served from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Price: Varies
Address: 4161 Voltaire Street
Vessel Restaurant + Bar will offer a family style buffet. Highlights include both traditional and non-traditional dishes from butternut squash bisque and whipped Yukon Gold potatoes to heritage roast turkey, stuffing, crispy BBQ baby back ribs, lobster rolls, and 1855 Black Angus prime rib roasts. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price: $75 for adults | $25 for children 12 and under
Address: 1551 Shelter Island Drive
The French bistro guarantees something for everyone: adults, kids, wine lovers, and even those hard-to-please-around-the-holidays vegetarians. This three-course prix fixe dinner includes Thanksgiving classics as well as French dishes. For dessert, enjoy almond Tuile, raspberry coulis, pecan and cranberry tart, brown butter apple mousseline or cinnamon orange sorbet. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Price: $42 for adults | $19 for children | $18 optional wine pairing
Address: 3015 Adams Avenue
How about Thanksgiving en Français? All meals come with a starter, entrée, and dessert of choice. Indulge in classic wines or indulge in the special cocktail, The Pumpkin Pie Martini, crafted with Absolut vanilla vodka, pumpkin spice liqueur, Kahlua, butterscotch schnapps, and a crushed graham cracker rim. Reservations recommended.
Date: November 28
Time: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Price: $65 for adults | $19.95 for children 12 and under
Address: 4090 Adams Avenue
where to have thanksgiving dinner in San Diego Bobeau
BoBeauOB | Photo courtesy of Cohn Restaurant Group
From smoked turkey breast to shrimp and bacon mac and cheese, Cohn Restaurant Group owns and operates over 20 restaurants participating in Thanksgiving fun, including: Coasterra, Island Prime C-Level, The Prado, Vintana, Indigo Grill, and BO-beau kitchen + bar. Check out Cohn Restaurant Group for more details. Reservations recommended.
Where to Have Thanksgiving Dinner in San Diego
Thanksgiving brunch at the Catamaran | Photo courtesy of Evans Hotels
This month, the 2026 San Diego Business Impact Awards recognized local businesses making an impact in clean energy, biotech, hospitality, and beyond
Renewable energy companies building hundreds of power plants. Biotech startups using artificial intelligence to create personalized medicine for children with rare diseases. Hospitality companies quietly powering thousands of local events. Consumer brands growing from beach-town startups into national businesses. These are the kinds of companies driving San Diego’s economy today, and the businesses recognized at this year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards offer a snapshot of where the region is headed.
Hosted July 23 by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards event honored four local companies for innovation, growth, and economic impact. More than 100 nominations from San Diego’s middle-market businesses were reviewed by a 10-person judging committee, with winners selected across four categories: startup, early-stage innovator, rising star, and established heavyweight.
Two-time honoree Jimbo Someck, founder of Jimbo’s organic grocery stores, also joined the event for a fireside chat on buying local, supporting emerging brands, and giving back to the community.
“San Diego’s strength comes from its makers and builders—the resilient people who endure great risks and overcome obstacles to build and scale a company,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager and Middle Market Banking at JPMorganChase & Co. “These awards aren’t just recognition; they spotlight the talent, grit, and innovation shaping our region’s future. By celebrating those who create and build, we foster connections and fuel the growth that keeps San Diego thriving.”

Heavyweight honoree SOLV Energy has grown alongside the country’s rapid investment in renewable power. “It’s an exciting time for SOLV Energy as we are experiencing significant growth,” says CEO George Hershman. “The business has doubled over the last year and has almost double-digit growth since its inception.”
The Rancho Bernardo-based company designs, builds, operates, and maintains utility-scale solar and energy storage facilities. Since its founding in 2008, SOLV Energy has built more than 500 power plants.
Growth has translated directly into hiring. About 200 employees work from the company’s local headquarters, including roughly 20 interns. “Our intern program is a big part of the way that we grow our workforce,” Hershman says. “Last year, 43 percent of our interns became full-time employees. We believe San Diego is a great community to build and grow a high-tech infrastructure and technology company because of the incredible workforce—the ability to attract top talent and draw from world-class universities.”

Startup honoree La Jolla Labs is tackling one of medicine’s biggest challenges by developing personalized RNA therapeutics for patients with rare diseases—many of them children with neurological disorders like ALS. Using proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, the biotech company develops treatments tailored to each patient’s specific genetic mutation.
CEO Tamar Grossman says the recognition reflects how far the company has come despite limited resources. “We’re honored to be recognized for our ability to change and save patients’ lives and turn our lean startup into a clinical company with very minimal resources,” she says.
Grossman credits San Diego’s concentration of research institutions—including UC San Diego, the Salk Institute, and Scripps Research—with creating a pipeline of talent and collaboration. “San Diego is one of the world-leading centers for technology, genomics, and RNA therapeutics,” she says. “We have over 30 RNA therapeutics companies here, and we support each other and help with anything related to drug discovery.”
She says that collaborative spirit extends beyond formal partnerships. “You can walk around Torrey Pines, go into a café, and find colleagues from the industry and have an ad hoc conversation,” Grossman says. “That’s something very unique to San Diego.”

While Snake Oil Venue Company may not be a household name, chances are many San Diegans have attended one of its events. The early-stage innovator honoree has expanded from beverage catering and mixology consulting into venue management, operating Julep Venue in Mission Hills, Bramble Bay Venue in Imperial Beach, Vesper Venue, the Chapel at Liberty Station, and five outdoor venues throughout Liberty Station—more than 500,000 square feet of event space altogether.
“We do a lot of launch parties for corporations and new products,” says CEO Mike Esposito. “I really like working on the entrepreneur side of things, where new businesses are entering the San Diego market and looking to make a splash.”
Snake Oil has executed more than 16,000 events, employed more than 1,000 people, and partnered with more than 900 local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, entertainers, and other hospitality businesses. The company also works with many of San Diego’s nonprofits, museums, and cultural institutions. “We get to celebrate people’s most important moments,” Esposito says. “Whether that’s a wedding, celebration of life, or quinceañera, we’re fortunate to be involved in the community in so many different ways.”

Rising star honoree ALOHA Collection is proof that a simple idea can grow into a thriving company. Founded by two roommates who wanted a better way to carry wet swimsuits after a day at the beach, the lifestyle brand has grown into a business while maintaining strong year-over-year growth.
Now headquartered in Carlsbad, ALOHA Collection employs more than 100 people and operates its California flagship store in Encinitas, which is slated for a remodel. With roots in Hawaii, the company is known for its lightweight, splash-proof travel bags that have become a familiar sight on beaches in San Diego and beyond.
“‘Aloha’ is part of our name, but it’s also how we move through the world,” says CEO Lynna Barnard. “It’s how we show up for people, the way we travel, the way we give back.” Since day one, the company has maintained a 5 percent giveback to Hawaii conservation efforts, contributing millions of dollars over the years.
“I think what’s so inspiring about ALOHA Collection, and the founders in particular, is when you dream big, those dreams can come true when you work hard and trust in the universe,” Barnard says. “It’s inspiring to be a role model for other people wanting to start businesses from humble beginnings. Start small and watch it grow.”
Together, businesses like these form a cornerstone of San Diego’s economy—not only through the jobs and revenue they generate—but through the local workers they hire, vendors they support, and investments they make in the region. Their growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it ripples outward, strengthening the broader business community and the people who call San Diego home.

From concerts and festivals to theater, food, and outdoor fun, here are the San Diego events worth adding to your August calendar
August is San Diego at full volume. Summer crowds are still chasing sunshine, but the calendar belongs to locals who know this is when the city really shows off. One night you’re dancing under the stars, the next you’re watching thoroughbreds with a plate of oysters in hand, catching Broadway hits, wandering gallery exhibitions, or rallying on a downtown pickleball court. Whether you’re looking for live music, festivals, theater, food, or an excuse to spend as little time indoors as possible, these are the August events worth putting on your calendar.
JUMP TO: Concerts & Festivals | Theater & Art Exhibits | More Fun Things to Do

On the heels of Cross Pollination II’s release, house musician Lane 8 will co-headline FNGRS CRSSD x Cross Pollination, a day of back-to-back grooves at Waterfront Park.
Cross coasts at the Civic Theatre for a jukebox musical rooted in family, coming of age, and blossoming talent in Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen, inspired by the 16-Grammy Award-winning singer’s NYC upbringing.
Jeff Goldblum is a classic man. In his show at The Rady Shell, Goldblum will accentuate his old-school charm with his Mildred Snitzer Orchestra and the San Diego Symphony Orchestra.

Explore gallery walls lined with artwork juried by acclaimed artist Paul Mpagi Sepuya and chosen by the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library for its esteemed 34th Annual Juried Exhibition.
As you already know, we adore San Diego. That’s why we’re assembling the city’s crème de la crème—including over 90 curated vendors—in Liberty Station for our annual Best of San Diego Party, presented by Pechanga Resort & Casino.
Helado Negro and Reyna Tropical each specialize in bilingual music, songs overflowing with proud markers of Latinx identity. Hear the ear-tingling transmissions from their collaborative LP at Epstein Family Amphitheater.
Country music superstars, proud Georgians, and close pals Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan are doubling down on their summertime stadium tour with a boot-stomping concert at Petco Park.
The one-woman play Eleanor—told via the eloquent perspective of Eleanor Roosevelt—will make a limited return to the North Coast Repertory Theatre.
For six straight Thursdays, downtown’s Fifth Avenue will shut down and become the city’s first-ever street-style pickleball event. Bring a paddle and enjoy DJs, a wellness market, and zero-proof drinks at Gaslamp Urban Pickleball.
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s newest foodie event, the buttery Turf & Surf Festival, offers a luxurious combo of land and sea, built for watching trackside with a loaded plate in hand.
For the first time since 2019, the free Chula Vista HarborFest will hit the shores of Bayside Park with a classic car expo, lucha libre showdowns, and the chance to meet a mermaid.
Celebrate the seven decades (and counting) spent upholding Point Loma’s coastal landmark during Cabrillo Under the Stars, a 21-plus fundraiser with bites, Beatles covers, and, best of all, twinkling lights.
Ryan Hardison is a freelance arts and entertainment writer and recent graduate of San Diego State. When he's not staring at his laptop, he's likely eating an adobada burrito or getting sunburnt at the beach.
Pop bottles during Uncorked: Del Mar, find companionship at Cardiff Dog Days of Summer and embrace musical history through SummerFest
Immersive theater productions, open-air pickleball matches and affordable festivals are among San Diego’s marquee happenings as we turn to August. Fans of horror classics and fourth-wall breaking can explore their interests via the new theatrical comedy Die Already! and the one-woman show ha ha ha ha ha ha ha, respectively. Pickleball enthusiasts can sign up for Gaslamp Urban Pickleball, a weekly chance to play outdoors, shop for gear and take advantage of neighborhood dining deals. Plus, for the budget-conscious, admission is free for a handful of local festivals, including the three-day Ramona Country Fair, ArtWalk Liberty Station and Cardiff Dog Days of Summer.
JUMP TO: Food & Drink | Concerts & Festivals | Theater & Art Exhibits | More Fun Things to Do
Dine on a sustainable farm-to-table spread from Barron Creek Farm at Thursday’s Mid-Summer Harvest Feast. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with tunes from local band Wild Caravan, charcuterie, herbal refreshments and an optional guided tour of the farm (with the chance to harvest your own herbs). Then, guests will be seated for a four-course dinner at 6:30 p.m., crafted by Chef Jesse Bermudez of Rancho Valencia. Tickets are $100-$150 per person on a sliding scale; proceeds from the event will support the nonprofit farm’s environmental initiatives.
1501 Kelly Street, Oceanside
Sample a worldly selection of wines, champagne, cocktails and more through the 7th annual Uncorked: Del Mar this Saturday from 2-5 p.m. at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Dress in derby attire and enjoy an afternoon with horse racing, live music, food trucks, and unlimited tastings, with over 100 unique libations at this 21-plus event. Ticket options include general admission ($84) and early admission ($100), which comes with entry at 1 p.m. and exclusive pours; proceeds from this event go towards the nonprofit Urban Surf 4 Kids.
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar
July 29
It’s common for musicians to go through cycles of exploration, but few are as adept at reinvention as Santigold. Even her oldest songs, like 2008’s “Shove It” feel revolutionary for their scale. She’s embraced a slew of influences—punk, dancehall, electronica, new wave—all on her way to becoming an alternative pop pioneer, a fashion icon and a beacon of originality. This Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., Santigold will perform at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay with special guest Troy Baker Sound. General admission (standing only) is $68 for this concert.
2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island
Enjoy a western weekend at the Ramona Country Fair, returning this Friday from 4-11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Ramona Outdoor Community Center. The festivities include a cornhole tournament, an off-road car show, carnival-style entertainment and themed music lineups: Rhythm & Roots Night (Friday), Rock & Reggae Night (Saturday), Blues Brunch (Sunday morning) and Old Country Night (Sunday evening). Admission is free, while ride tickets (32 for $20) and wristbands ($30 online, $35 in-person) are available online.
421 Aqua Lane, Ramona
La Jolla Music Society will spend a full month celebrating classics at The Conrad during the 40th anniversary of SummerFest, beginning this Friday. This year’s festival, themed “Making History,” will open with The Incomplete History of the World in Ten Pieces (Friday at 7 p.m.), followed by Vienna 1900 (Saturday at 7 p.m.) and What If? (Sunday at 3 p.m.). In addition to the 21 concerts, there will be over 50 free events, including open rehearsals, lectures, coaching workshops and an informative preview (Wednesday at 6 p.m.). Those interested in Friday’s show can join the waitlist; tickets range from $40-$95 for Vienna 1900 and $65-$95 for What If?.
7600 Fay Avenue, La Jolla
Last September, St. Vincent collaborated with conductor Jules Buckley and a 60-piece orchestra on a one-off concert for the BBC Proms series. Its success birthed two further triumphs for the acclaimed alternative musician: a sublime live album (Live in London) and a nationwide orchestral tour, with its penultimate performance set for Friday (7:30 p.m.) at The Rady Shell. Joining St. Vincent will be the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and a special guest, Pakistani singer and composer Arooj Aftab. Tickets range from $68-$117 for this concert.
222 Marina Park Way, Embarcadero

Ryan Hardison is a freelance arts and entertainment writer and recent graduate of San Diego State. When he's not staring at his laptop, he's likely eating an adobada burrito or getting sunburnt at the beach.
San Diego aesthetic medicine providers help you look—and feel—your best
San Diego is home to world-class aestheticians, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists who can help turn back the hands of time and revitalize tired, damaged skin. Enhancing your look is a spectrum. Treatments range from noninvasive procedures like lasers or injectables to the big guns, like a deep-plane facelift—many with better results and less downtime than ever thanks to advanced techniques and technology. Whether you’re a Botox beginner or an aesthetic medical care veteran, San Diego aestheticians and aesthetic medicine providers can help you look and feel like the best version of yourself.

Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa is San Diego’s premier destination for aesthetic surgery, led by world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Rossi. Celebrated for his artistry, precision, and natural-looking results, Dr. Rossi is known for creating customized Mommy Makeovers that help women restore confidence and reclaim their bodies after pregnancy. His expertise also extends to comprehensive post-weight loss body contouring, addressing excess skin and skin laxity with sophisticated surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. From breast and body rejuvenation to deep plane facelifts and eyelid surgery, every treatment plan reflects Dr. Rossi’s commitment to surgical excellence, personalized care, and transformative results that look as beautiful as they feel.

At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, the board-certified, internationally acclaimed team has the power to erase 10+ years of aging in a single treatment. The center’s 60+ laser, light, and energy devices do it all—refining texture and tone, calming acne, minimizing pores, and erasing that ill-advised spring break tattoo of yesteryear. Their dermatologists take it further by stacking multiple devices in one session for synergistic results—the philosophy behind their signature Take5 and Take10 treatments, the latter capable of removing a decade-plus of aging in just one visit. Add a full suite of injectables, body sculpting, and vein treatments for every skin type and tone, and it’s no wonder the practice’s medical director was named the #1 cosmetic dermatologist in America by Newsweek two years running.

If it’s subtle, lasting results you’re after, Cultivé Medical Aesthetics has you covered. Cultivé purposely combines aesthetics and wellness. The Bankers Hill practice offers a full menu of services designed to improve skin health and support the three pillars of aesthetic aging: skin tone and texture, volume loss, and laxity. Cultivé offers a wide range of aesthetic treatments, including collagen boosting powerhouse Morpheus8, biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse, PRP therapy, laser hair removal, VI peels, and regenerative skincare treatments. They also provide wellness-focused services such as hormone replacement therapy, IV therapy, and medical weight management programs.

Starlite Aesthetics and Wellness focuses on enhancing natural beauty through science-backed treatments tailored to each client’s goals. Michelle Langston, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, founded Starlite on the principle that aesthetic medicine should be precise, personal, and rooted in wellness. The boutique aesthetic practice in La Jolla combines modern medical aesthetics with holistic wellness principles for refined results personalized to each patient. Langston has spent more than a decade honing her skills in advanced injectables, regenerative therapies, and anti-aging care. Starlite offers regenerative therapies rooted in science, promoting skin rejuvenation using a multiple modality approach. Service offerings include RF microneedling, wrinkle relaxers, facial balancing and more.

In the rapidly advancing field of aesthetic medicine, it can be hard to tell what’s worth the hype. Here are some of the latest, most advanced, and most popular options out there.
Morpheus8: This combination of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy activates your skin’s own collagen and elastin without the downtime associated with some
laser treatments. It can be used to reduce wrinkles, tighten skin, improve skin tone, contour the jawline, and minimize acne scars.
Exosome Therapy: This cutting-edge treatment uses protein-packed nanoparticles to trigger repair and rejuvenation at the cellular level. Often used post-microneedling or lasers, exosomes penetrate deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production.
Post-GLP-1 Skin Removal: Rapid fat loss prompted by GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide, can leave users with sagging skin. Skilled surgeons can remove excess skin and reshape the figure.
Treatment Stacking: Sometimes it’s the more the merrier when it comes to aesthetic procedures. Combining multiple non-surgical treatments in a single session allows users to address several issues efficiently, with less downtime.