Clicky

If you’re thinking about skipping the cooking this year, you’re definitely not alone. Every November, people in Orange County start wondering if they really want to prep a full traditional turkey dinner… or just let someone else take over. And honestly? With how many delicious options there are for a Thanksgiving feast in Orange County, ordering out might be the best gift you give yourself. Whether you want roasted turkey, comfort food, a Thanksgiving buffet, or a cozy family-style Thanksgiving meal, there’s truly something for everyone.

Below are the local spots that make Thanksgiving feel easy, festive, and seriously delicious.

Table of Contents

Smoqued California BBQ – Old Towne Orange

If your perfect Thanksgiving leans more “comfort food” than “formal dining,” Smoqued is your place. Their sliced smoked turkey and roasted turkey plates have that slow-cooked flavor you can’t fake, and the portions are the kind that make you loosen your belt halfway through. The sides taste homemade—think garlic mashed potatoes, hearty stuffing, and rich turkey gravy. It’s the kind of Thanksgiving supper where you walk out full and happy, even if you didn’t cook a thing.

Urban Plates – Multiple OC Locations

Urban Plates makes Thanksgiving feel effortless. You walk in, order, and suddenly there’s a plate in front of you that tastes like a real holiday meal. Their turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and veggies hits all the nostalgic notes. It’s casual, quick, and cozy—perfect if you’re looking for a simple Thanksgiving meal without all the prep. And if you love dessert, don’t skip their pumpkin pie or seasonal pumpkin cheesecake.

The Ranch Restaurant – Anaheim

If your family loves a polished holiday experience, The Ranch is a must. They often offer a thoughtful Thanksgiving prix fixe menu featuring classics like roasted turkey breast, butternut squash soup, and green bean casserole. Every dish feels intentional, from the sweet potato casserole to the cranberry relish. It’s elevated but still warm and welcoming—the kind of dinner that becomes part of your core Thanksgiving Day memories.

Orange County Mining Company – Orange

This place is practically an OC Thanksgiving tradition. Perched on the hillside, the views alone make the meal feel festive. Their huge Thanksgiving dinner buffet is loaded with carved meats, a full Thanksgiving menu of sides, and comfort dishes for every age—including cornbread stuffing, freshly baked biscuits, and chipotle honey sweet potatoes if you time it right. Big families love it, kids love it, adults love it…it’s one of those rare spots where everyone wins.

 

Derrick’s Grille at Black Gold Golf Club – Yorba Linda

 

If you want something quieter and more relaxed, Derrick’s delivers. Their holiday offerings feel like a real family meal without the chaos. Think roasted autumn vegetable salad, turkey dinner classics, cozy sides, and desserts served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect choice for a peaceful North OC celebration—especially if you prefer a more intimate setting over a big Thanksgiving buffet.

Thanksgiving in Orange County doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen or a sink full of dishes. Whether you want roasted turkey, a polished full dinner menu, a full Thanksgiving dinner buffet, or something more casual, there’s an option that fits the vibe of your holiday. So this year, give yourself permission to enjoy the season, relax a little, and choose the kind of Thanksgiving feast that makes your day feel special—no cooking required.

LET US KEEP YOU IN THE LOOP

Never miss a thing in Orange County!

Get a FREE list of fun, local events delivered to your inbox weekly!

I agree to be contacted by Your Orange County via text, call & email.
To opt-out, reply ‘stop’ to [email protected].