Look, I love my mom’s cooking as much as the next person… but sometimes, it’s nice to let someone else handle the stress of Thanksgiving dinner (and the mountain of dishes that comes with it).
Whether you’re hosting the family, going solo, or just looking to take the pressure off of mom this year, these Central Ohio spots are cooking up Thanksgiving meals that just might be better than homemade.
Let’s dig in (literally).
1. Der Dutchman
Website and Locations | Order Catering
If anyone’s going to do Thanksgiving food right, it’s the Amish and Mennonite communities. The emphasis they place on family, community, and making everything from scratch translates into food that tastes like pure love (and maybe a little butter).
You can order a family feast for 5, 10, or 20 people, which comes with 2.5, 5, or 10 pounds of turkey or ham, plus all the sides — mashed potatoes, dressing, dinner rolls, pies, and more. Or if you’re picky (or just have strong opinions about creamed corn), you can order a la carte with options like roast beef, green beans, salads, and more.
Trust me, this is Thanksgiving done the right way, without you having to peel a single potato.
2. Ray Ray’s BBQ
Find All Locations Here | Order Online
If you’re looking to add a southern twist to your Thanksgiving, Ray Ray’s BBQ is where it’s at. Their bulk orders require two days’ notice, but you’ll want to order even earlier to beat the rush (and make sure they don’t sell out).
You can customize orders that can serve anywhere from 12 to 50 people, and you can pick from brisket, pork, chicken, hot links, ribs, or even smoked cauliflower. Every order includes buns and sauces, and the sides (like mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans) come in quart or pan sizes depending on how many mouths you’re feeding.
Basically, it’s Thanksgiving with a side of smoke and soul.
3. Bob Evans
Find a Location Near You | Thanksgiving Menu
There might not be a more nostalgic place for me (and probably you) than Bob Evans. It reminds me of simpler times… family meals after church, or long breakfasts with loved ones. And this year, you can recreate those good vibes with Bob Evans’ full Thanksgiving menu.
You can dine in or pre-order a take-home feast. The traditional spread includes turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, and dinner rolls. Or if you’re feeling rebellious, grab the Farmer’s Choice breakfast instead. Because nothing says “holiday spirit” like pancakes before noon.
Sometimes, the best way to make new memories is by revisiting the flavors of old ones.
4. Lindey’s
169 E. Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206
Of course Lindey’s does Thanksgiving… and of course, they absolutely crush it. This cozy, historic German Village spot is the perfect place to spend the holiday surrounded by family and good food.
Their roasted turkey dinner features maple-brined turkey breast and confit dark meat (because even the turkey deserves a glow-up), served with whipped mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, gravy, onions, and cranberry sauce. You can also level up your holiday with dishes like Ahi Tuna Tartare, Wagyu Ribeye, or Lobster Bisque.
But the real star? The sweet potato casserole. With cinnamon, butter, spiced pecans, and toasted marshmallows, it’s what dreams (and sugar comas) are made of.
5. The Guild House
624 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
The Guild House is going the elegant (but still cozy) route this Thanksgiving with a four-course meal that’s the perfect mix of fancy and comforting.
Start with roasted parsnip soup, then move to the squash salad with kale, country ham, pistachio brittle, tomme cheese, and orange vinaigrette. The main course is turkey, followed by a roasted pumpkin torte for dessert.
The meal starts at $59 per person or $89 with wine pairings, and if you’ve ever had a cocktail here, you know the wine pairings are worth it. I trust The Guild House (and Neal, America’s favorite bartender) with my life, so believe me when I say this meal will be something special. The hospitality is next level, and the food is right there with it.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you’re looking for a cozy sit-down meal, a Southern-inspired BBQ spread, or a full feast you can pass off as your own cooking (I won’t tell), these five spots have you covered. This year, skip the stress, avoid the smoke alarms, and let the pros take care of Thanksgiving dinner.
Mom will understand… eventually.
Holiday Guides
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