Updated for 2023
Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating with loved ones while savoring hearty fare. While that might involve sliding an extra leaf into the dining room table, it could also mean a quick jaunt to a local restaurant or caterer, where all the food prep is taken care of, and your only concern is lively conversation. Just be sure to call ahead to place your order or reserve a spot at a table.
Claxon’s Smokehouse and Grill
3131 8th Street SW • Altoona, IA 50009 • (515) 967-7979
Claxon’s Smokehouse and Grill in Altoona always offers delicious catered meals, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Menu items include turkey, ham, prime rib, mashed potatoes, fried corn and more. And choose from a variety of serving styles: party platters, family- and large-size meals as well as a la carte options. All meals must be pre-ordered as the restaurant is not open on Thanksgiving Day.
Country Club Market
2624 NW 157th Street • Clive, IA 50325 • (515) 987-5957
If you’re looking for an alternative to the same-old, same-old, Country Club Market is a great outside-the-box Thanksgiving dinner option. Chef Terrie will help you create a one-of-a-kind menu using fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll also want to inquire about Country Club Market’s specialized services, such as flower bouquets, desserts and special occasion cakes.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
150 S Jordan Creek Parkway • West Des Moines, IA 50266 • (515) 457-2916
Fleming’s Steakhouse offers a three-course Thanksgiving feast at its West Des Moines location or if you pre-order for carryout. Enjoy Thanksgiving classics like Mixed Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast or their Petite Filet Mignon. They’ve also created a delightful three-course Thanksgiving Children’s Menu.
Fresh Thyme Market
2900 University Avenue • West Des Moines, IA 50266 • (515) 635-6016
Whether you want just the turkey or the entire meal, The Fresh Thyme Market can help. The “Hassle Free Complete Dinner” feeds up to six guests. It’s a delicious feast of turkey, artisan stuffing, turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole and butterflake dinner rolls. Desserts, appetizers and other a la carte options are also available for an additional cost.
Rock River Grill & Tavern
Des Moines Marriott Downtown • 700 Grand Avenue • Des Moines, IA 50309 • (515) 558-6730
This hotel restaurant serves up it’s annual Thanksgiving Feast. The buffet menu typically features roasted turkey and ham. Side dishes include three cheese baked macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied yams, green bean casserole, vegetable medley, dinner rolls and a salad bar. Of course, there is a dessert table and the meal is served from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Proudfoot & Bird
1000 Walnut Street • Des Moines, IA 50309 • (515) 957-2400
Des Moines restaurants open on Thanksgiving include the upscale Proudfoot & Bird, which is located in the newly remodeled Hotel Fort Des Moines. With its elegant decor, ornate chandeliers and serving everything imaginable for a traditional Thanksgiving table, it makes for a great setting to let kids practice their table manners. And, it’s a good idea to make reservations.
ShortE’s BBQ
8805 Chambery Boulevard #250 • Johnston, IA 50131 • (515) 252-9887
You can always count on a BBQ joint to provide a feast. ShortE’s BBQ in Johnston offers smoked turkeys and hams for the holidays. You have to pre-order off their website or give them a call and pick up your delicious main course in time for your holiday dinner. (The restaurant is not open on Thanksgiving.) You could also order a few of their tasty sides like green beans and cheesy corn and call it a meal.
If you know of a restaurant or caterer that serves up Thanksgiving dinner, let us know and we’ll add it to the list!
Have a happy Thanksgiving! And for more tips and activities this season, check out our Fall Fun Guide and Calendar.
