Where to Have Thanksgiving Dinner in La Jolla
Note: Our editors have updated the information in this article as thoroughly as possible, and the details are current as of Thanksgiving 2024 (November 28th). That said, please double-check events before you go to avoid unexpected closures.
Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude, take pleasure in the company of others, and dive into some amazing food; but if you don’t have time this year to cook up a huge meal for your family, or if you just want to spend time relaxing on your holiday, don’t fret—you can still have a great meal and day by trying out some of the excellent restaurants that La Jolla has to offer. We’ve rounded up the best La Jolla restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 28th. Whether you’re a Thanksgiving traditionalist or adventurer, we’ve got something for you. (Be sure to visit our article on San Diego weather in November.)
Table of Contents
ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar LaJolla
Looking for the perfect family experience? Than look no further than ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar La Jolla for Thanksgiving day dinner. Mom and Dad will enjoy the exquisitely prepared classics of slow-roasted turkey breast, herb-crusted pork loin, and succulent roasted Atlantic salmon while the kids have their very own buffet to pick from. Of course to top dinner off, pumpkin pie and dessert is available for everyone to enjoy. For the ultimate experience step into one of the theaters for a pre or post dinner movie.
Dinner will be served on November 28th only. Ticket prices run from $65 for adults and $35 for kids. The event takes place from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Call 858-777-0069 or click here to make your reservation at ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar La Jolla!
Flemings La Jolla
Join Flemings Steakhouse La Jolla for a three-course Thanksgiving feast for just $49 per person, including classics like the Mixed Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast, or Sliced Beef Tenderloin. Sides include delicious butter-mashed sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold mashed potatoes. And bring the kids, too!
Thanksgiving festivities begin at 11:00am on November 28th, and prices start at $62 per guest. Reservations are highly encouraged, as this well sell out! Call 858-535-0078 or visit their website to reserve your table.
The Marine Room
With a breathtaking ocean view, the Marine Room is a great spot a for high-class Thanksgiving dining. The holiday menu also offers a wide variety of dishes for the occasion, so if you don’t like turkey, that’s okay! You’ll have plenty of options. Celebrate the day with a mouthwatering filet mignon or an almond-crusted Swordfish cooked to perfection.
At the time of this writing, seating is open and available on November 28th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time by calling 866-644-2351 or visiting their website.
NINE-TEN
Nine-Ten (located within the Grande Colonial Hotel) offers an unparalleled dining experience day of the year, November 28th being no exception! This year they are offering a three-course, prix-fixe meal with wine pairings. In addition to the chefs’ dedication to using only the freshest local products, their innovative and creative style guarantees a unique meal that’s worth the visit.
Reservations are required, so call (858) 964-5400 to grab a spot between 2 pm and 7 pm. Check out their website for full details.
A. R. Valentien
A.R. Valentien is located in The Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Jolla’s world famous five-diamond hotel. If attending five-star dining establishment for Thanksgiving has been an annual tradition for you – be prepared to be disappointed this year, because the A.R. Valentien kitchen will be closed for Thanksgiving 2024. We did some digging and found the following announcement from The Lodge:
“The Lodge at Torrey Pines will be undergoing a kitchen renovation at A.R. Valentien starting October 13, 2024, lasting five months. We appreciate your patience during this enhancement and are committed to elevating your guest experience. For updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow us on Instagram @lodgeTorreyPines. We look forward to welcoming you back in Spring 2025 for an inspired culinary journey in our revitalized space!“
Sorry folks, no turkey at A.R. Valentien this year. But check back with next year, and we’ll keep you updated.
The Shores Restaurant
Pick and choose from your favorite holiday treats at The Shores Restaurant (located at La Jolla Shores Hotel)! This Thanksgiving buffet is stuffed to the brim with anything you could want — including a variety of savory appetizers; delicious main courses including Red Sage Peppercorn Brined Carolina Tom Turkey and BBQ Rub Angus Prime Rib Roast; seasonal sides, delicious pies, and sweet treats. Its diverse, all-you-can-eat menu makes it perfect for big groups or picky eaters.
In addition to the fantastic variety, the Shores offers some of the best prices. Reservations aren’t required, but for anyone who loves buffets as much as we do, it’s a good idea to secure your spot by calling 866-644-2630. At the time of this writing in 2024, The Shores appears to be doing business and happily serving delicious dishes on Nov 28th. However, please call or check their website before you go to be sure.
George’s California Modern
Are you looking for something a little more “advanced?” California Modern, part of the famous George’s at the Cove, can help with that. The chefs offer creative takes on Thanksgiving classics. It’s a three course meal, so you can sample a persimmon salad, stinging nettle spaghetti, or beef tartare without having to give up your full turkey dinner. And since George’s is known for their seafood, of course we have to recommend the fish tacos.
Meals are $90 per adult ticket and $45 for children. The special menu will available November 28th starting at 2pm. Make a reservation by calling (858) 454-4244 or visiting their website. They also have curbside pickup and homemade Thanksgiving pies you can take home if interested.
Duke’s La Jolla
Sometimes all you want is to relax with your family, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and have a good meal. Duke’s keeps it simple with their Thanksgiving Dinner Special, and there is a smaller portioned version for children. You get all the goodies and fixings you would if you were at home, but with the addition of stellar patio seating and a view of the waterside cliffs that can’t be beat. Don’t forget to leave room for the pumpkin pie!
It’s also one of the most economical options, especially for big groups or groups with younger guests. Reservations aren’t necessary, but if you’d like to make one you can call (858) 454-5888 or visit their website. Note: As of 2024, it appears Duke’s is open for Thanksgiving, but please call or check their website before making concrete plans.
Eddie V’s
Eddie V’s will be serving a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings this year — complete with Brioche Sage Stuffing and hand-whipped potatoes, to name a few! If you’re not feeling festive, you can always order from the regular menu; no one could blame you for eyeing the Chilean sea bass or lobster tacos at this well-known seafood destination in La Jolla.
Thanksgiving dinner is served on Nov 28th between 11am – 8pm. Reservations are recommended —call (619) 615-0281 or visit their website to learn more.
Stay tuned for more Thanksgiving tips, ideas, and events!
Named after Pearl Street in La Jolla, Pearl is the unofficial mascot of the various elves on the daily news desk at LaJolla.com. We’re writers, editors, and people who work on websites; sometimes so many people work on one project that no one feels like they should take the credit.
