Thanksgiving is a time of year meant for spending time with family and connecting with friends old and new. But even for the most accomplished cook, the Thanksgiving feast can be an intimidating prospect. This year, step away from the kitchen and the last-minute panic and let some local Seattle eateries do the cooking for you.
Julie Reinhardt, author of She-Smoke: A Backyard Barbecue Book, and her husband Eric are the chef/owners behind Smokin' Pete's BBQ. They’ve been catering for Seattleites since 2004 and offer everything from smoked turkeys and prime rib to complete Thanksgiving feasts. The whole dinner, which runs around $16 to $22 per person, includes a smoked turkey, made-from-scratch gravy, a choice of four sides from their selection of eight delicious options, and one of their Almost Famous pies for dessert.
Reinhardt says the garlic mashed potatoes are a perennial favorite for families, though the stuffing and roasted root vegetable medley come in a close second and third. For her own kids, who often help out at their catering events, Reinhardt says their ever-popular Mac-n-Cheesy “has been a staple since birth.” For those with hungry teenagers in the family, all of their sides and smoked meats are available à la carte to add to the meal. The deadline for orders is Nov. 21; don’t delay, as they often sell out.
Turkey might be traditional, but if it’s not a favorite at your table, look to Il Corvo for their famous porchetta, handmade from all-natural pork belly and tenderloin. With its succulent and savory meat surrounded by crunchy crust, porchetta is sure to be a new family favorite. Each roast costs $90 and should feed 8 to 10 people.
For a vegetarian feast, Cafe Flora celebrates its 25th Thanksgiving with plenty of creative kid-friendly options. Past favorites include their Creole-spiced pumpkin soup and wild mushroom and chestnut bread pudding.
There’s no shame in hanging up the apron; you’ll have more time to spend with your family, friends and loved ones. And that’s something to be thankful for.
smokinpetesbbq.com
ilcorvopasta.com
cafeflora.com
