It’s no secret that I’m not a home chef. I do *okay* with cooking / baking, but my lack of experience in the kitchen means that I’m a bit slow on the prep work and get overwhelmed when I have multiple dishes working at one time. Anyone else?
Last year was the first time in years that I cooked a holiday meal just for my husband and myself at home because of the pandemic quarantine (normally we visit my family and my amazing mom and aunts handle all of the cooking 🙌🏼 ). I think if we do celebrate at home again in the future I’ll outsource some of the dishes that I either find challenging or don’t particularly care to make myself. We’re lucky enough in Seattle that many restaurants will cook the meal for you if you pre-order and pick up. For some it’s a prix fixe menu, and others will allow you to mix-and-match to build your own meal given your preferences.
ORDERING
Here’s a quick list of our favorite local restaurants that are offering to cook your holiday meal (so all you have to do is pick it up!) if you’re not one that enjoys cooking:
Ethan Stowell Restaurants
Offering a prix fixe menu that feeds 5-6 people with a la carte add-ons available
Heavy Restaurant Group
Delicious sides and beverages to go with your preferred protein — all a la carte!
*Be sure to order by November 19
Tom Douglas Restaurants
Pre-order baked goods (pies, breads, etc.) for Thanksgiving from the renowned Dahlia Bakery.
Ristorante Machiavelli
I shouldn’t even be telling you about this because it’s kind of a secret, but this little spot has THE best pumpkin cheesecake. They only sell a set number of full-size cheesecakes (no slices); call mid-November to pre-order!
Even more options to order from here!
If you aren’t local to Seattle, never fear — I have suggestions for you as well!
Williams-Sonoma
WS offers multiple options: 8 person feast, 4 person meal, Cajun Southern style meal, all sides (+ gluten free options!), items a la carte (I’m so obsessed with this turkey breast option). I also love this Five Days of Entrées especially if you are hosting family over multiple days, it takes the guesswork (and effort!) out of figuring out “what’s for dinner” for a group.
Whole Foods
Full meal OR a la carte options (appetizers, entrées, sides, vegan meal options, desserts / bread, and even wine), which I love for a more custom holiday meal.
Cheesecake Factory
I obviously have a love for pumpkin cheesecake, and if you can’t get one from Ristorante Machiavelli, then this is the next best thing. 😜 You can order one to be shipped directly to you, you may get lucky and find one in the frozen section of your grocery store OR you can order one for delivery / pick up if you have a Cheesecake Factory nearby.
Milk Bar
Currently offering a seasonal variation of their cult-favorite “Milk Bar Pie” (formerly known as “Crack Pie”). I’ve only had the original, which is amazing, so I can only assume that the pumpkin version is just as tasty!
FOR THE KITCHEN
If you are only interested in outsourcing maybe say, the turkey, but love making sides or dessert these are my favorite cookware, bakeware, and tools to use in the kitchen as well as the prettiest serving ware!
COOKING
Roasting Pan
This roasting pan has everything I wanted in relation to it’s functionality — able to be used for roasting proteins, both big and small, as well as vegetables, deep enough to be able to contain larger items / meat juices, and with easy-to-grab handles. I also love that it comes with the roasting rack included!
Bakeware Set
I think that having bakeware / casserole dishes that are as beautiful as they are functional is important because often those dishes end up being what the dish is served in and it certainly makes for a more tasteful tablescape.
TOOLS
Meat Thermometer
I prefer this type of thermometer because you don’t need to open the oven door to check on the turkey, allowing for the most accurate reading and no cooking temperature interruptions.
Cutting Board
An essential for slicing up meat, and pretty enough to serve on.
Turkey Forks
So helpful for handling your turkey, especially a full bird!
Carving Set
Must-have duo for carving up any protein.
Pie Server
SO much easier for cutting and serving pie than just using classic flatware (knives / forks).
BAKING
Pie Dishes
As I mentioned above regarding the casserole dishes, I think that the vessel that the pie is baked in should be equally functional and beautiful as that dish is often what the dessert is presented in!
Bakeware Set
The essential pieces in one set (baking sheet, cake tin, muffin tin, cooling rack, etc.) for all of your holiday baking needs!
SERVING
Salad Servers
So much easier to manage leaves of lettuce and toppings instead of using just a fork!
Platter
Such a lovely presentation for meal items that weren’t cooked in a casserole dish.
Gravy Boat
This one is brilliant because it sits atop a warmer that prevents the gravy from getting cold and solidifying between servings.
Serving Utensils
So much easier to manage serving food with the proper utensils.
Table Tongs
I love these so much because of the pinching action; they’re perfect for grabbing longer or individual items such green beans or roasted carrots.
Trivet
A great way to protect your table from hot dishes right out of the oven; bonus that this one is so neutral and lovely so it would work beautifully with your Thanksgiving table decor!
If you’re looking for meal suggestions, you can find my micro Thanksgiving menu from 2020 here! You can also find ideas for repurposing your holiday meal leftovers here, but our favorite option is in this post.
Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
Sending hugs —
xx, Natalie
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