Following the destruction from Hurricane Helene earlier this fall, it can be easy to focus on the struggles that continue for many around us. There is still much work to do. But there is also much to be thankful for, including the community members who have banded together in a time of crisis across Western North Carolina.
Whether you intend to celebrate solo or with loved ones, the most iconic feature of Thanksgiving remains unchanged: the meal. If you’re unsure how to adjust your recipes to match this year’s crowd (or lack thereof), local restaurants are here to help. In a season that’s brought unprecedented challenges to an already challenging industry, many local restaurants are stepping up and putting your family and your meal first this Thanksgiving. And we encourage you to help them in turn.
Show your support for local restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal in return! Here are three easy ways to support WNC restaurants this Thanksgiving.
Editor’s Note: We will update this post throughout the season as more information becomes available. Please check in regularly for updates.
Pre-order Thanksgiving meals, sides, and desserts to go
Whether you want a full meal, or just help with dessert, local restaurants and bakeries have what you need. For instance, Luella’s Bar-B-Que is offering holiday heat-and-eat meals and dishes, including cider-brined smoked turkey, chile-rubbed beef brisket, savory cornbread & smoked sausage stuffing, and even banana pudding pie. Or take advantage of Red Fiddle Vittles’ take-home dinners, party platters, private dinners, and holiday pre-orders. Just be sure to place your order asap! Most locations have pre-order deadlines that are creeping up quickly!
See where to pre-order Thanksgiving meals in Asheville for 2024:
- Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Asheville (Explore Asheville)
Dine in for Thanksgiving
Wanna skip the dishes this year? There are a number of restaurants in Asheville and throughout WNC that are open for dining on Thanksgiving. For instance, Pack’s Tavern keeps regular hours on Thanksgiving Day and serves up a buffet feast that’s sure to please everyone in your party. Or dine waterside on Lake Toxaway near Brevard at Greystone Inn. This luxury resort is offering extended hours for their Thanksgiving dinner this year, serving from 12:00–6:00 PM. If you’re planning to go this route, make your reservations early! Seating at most venues is limited.
See who’s open for Thanksgiving meals in Asheville and around WNC for 2024:
- Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Asheville (Explore Asheville)
- Thanksgiving 2024: Asheville Restaurants & Things To Do (RomanticAsheville.com)
- All Of The Fast Food Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving (Delish)
Buy gift cards from Asheville restaurants
Thanksgiving is the quintessential holiday to spend at home with family. If you’re planning to cook at home, but still want to support restaurants impacted by Hurricane Helene—never fear! There’s still one more great way to support local restaurants: Buy gift cards. Gift cards support local restaurants now, and they make great stocking stuffers to share with others this holiday season! Best of all, your support helps your favorite local eateries survive through the typical winter dining lag. So, do your part, and give someone (or yourself!) the gift of great food.
Buy gift cards for Asheville restaurants or make a donation today:
- Asheville: Love Asheville from Afar
- Asheville: WNC Tip it Forward (AIR)
