Eating out on Thanksgiving Day is the tradition for 1 in 10 Americans who say they avoid cooking and cleaning altogether on their special weekend off, preferring a table at a restaurant instead of home.
If you’re among this group and will be dining out on Turkey, below are some of the best New Smyrna Beach restaurants to grab your Thanksgiving meal during a getaway or vacation here.
The Garlic
Folks who want turkey, ham, and all the trimmings can drop by The Garlic at 556 3rd Ave. in New Smyrna Beach. Sure, it’s an Italian restaurant on regular days, but they offer an incredible All-You-Can-Eat Thanksgiving special that has a large variety of delicious holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and of course, cranberry sauce.
This buffet is especially perfect for large groups of family and friends. If you prefer something more adventurous, The Garlic is famed for “The Bocci Ball,” a 1-pound meatball (shaped like a cannonball) made from chopped sirloin with Italian spices. If you can’t finish it at the restaurant, take it home. Past diners have said it makes for 3 more meals at home. The Garlic is open from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm on Thanksgiving.
Norwood’s Eatery and Treehouse Bar
Located at 400 Second Avenue in New Smyrna Beach is a picturesque restaurant for Thanksgiving Day meals with its always spectacular treehouse setting. It’s been around since 1946 and only gets more popular with locals and out-of-towners, so calling ahead for a reservation is strongly recommended.
Health-conscious eaters will find both gluten-free and vegetarian selections in the menu along with the traditional entrees like turkey. Whatever yummy fare you choose, Norwood’s has one of the most complete wine selections in the neighborhood to complement that meal thanks to an in-restaurant wine shop. Norwood’s is open from 11:30 am – 10:00 pm on Thanksgiving.
Aunt Catfish’s on the River
Stopping by Aunt Catfish’s on the River at 4009 Halifax Drive in Port Orange is another best bet for a delightful Thanksgiving buffet. Offering authentic southern cuisine and hospitality, the family-owned and operated restaurant already offers a popular Sunday/Holiday Brunch voted “All Around Best” by The News Journal.
The annual Thanksgiving Buffet is equally popular, and reservations are recommended, especially if you’re taking the family. The eatery has a riverfront view that’s a favorite with locals and tourists while they dine, so it can get crowded. Aunt Catfish’s on the River is open 11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
New Smyrna Steakhouse
Also, don’t forget that home-grown New Smyrna Steakhouse at 723 E 3rd Ave. in New Smyrna Beach will be serving Thanksgiving favorites along with their tempting regular menu that includes their specialties: wood-fired steaks, burgers, and ribs. This quiet and spacious restaurant is open from 11:30 am – 9:30 pm.
With so many great New Smyrna Beach restaurants serving mouth-watering Thanksgiving feasts, the turkey won’t be the only one that will be stuffed!