Shortcuts to a Successful Thanksgiving in Alpharetta

Turkey, dressing (not stuffing—we’re in the south, y’all), buttery rolls, casseroles, pies galore and so much more—serving up a memorable meal on Thanksgiving can mean spending hours and hours in the kitchen with a wooden spoon in hand and flour all over your apron. While Thanksgiving is certainly a holiday where fabulous food takes center stage, it’s meant to be a time to focus in on what you’re truly grateful for, including the family and friends that you share the day with. Rather than toiling in the kitchen all day, enjoy quality time with the ones you love without sacrificing the food you crave.

“How can I do that?” you may ask. Here’s the answer: Head to Alpharetta for everything you need to save the stress and celebrate more this Thanksgiving.

Let’s Decorate

Cornucopias, pumpkins, turkeys, pilgrim salt and pepper shakers— oh my! Want to add something new to the table this year? Head to Downtown Alpharetta’s Gracious Home where you’ll find unique serving dishes, local pottery and other festive gobble day pieces. Then stroll over to La Bella Maison for beautiful place card holders, fall hued candles, cloth napkins and platters fit for the star of the show – your turkey! To create the DIY décor of your dreams, Paper Source at Avalon is a must stop. Customize your invitations and name cards with the cutest stamps, stickers, stationary and pens available! Still in need of place settings, table decorations, and more? Make your way to Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Kirkland’s for all the finishing touches!

Save Room for Seconds

Thanksgiving is a holiday where the motto is definitely, “the more, the merrier”, especially when it comes to having an abundance of food options! Obviously, planning an expansive menu involves a lot of time, love, and skill. To make the menu more manageable, let Alpharetta’s restaurants be your sous chef… We just recommend you place your orders in advance!

Let’s talk turkey. Cooking the perfect turkey can be daunting, so let some of Alpharetta’s best bird cookers step in and help! HoneyBaked Ham is famous for their hams, but they also offer deliciously prepared turkeys. For a unique flavor, order Smokejack BBQ’s Jack’s Talkin’ Turkey, an apple brined turkey that is smoked low and slow for hours. Smokejack also offers homemade sides like corn pudding, mac & cheese, cornbread stuffing and more. For the entertainer who loves to host but isn’t a cooking fanatic, order from The Savory Gourmet, where you can order your entire Thanksgiving meal, from appetizers to desserts. Your guests will never know your secret for having the yummiest spread ever! Round out the flavors and find the best wines to pair with your Thanksgiving fare at Fermented Wine Boutique.

Dish Out Desserts

Thanksgiving just isn’t complete without something sweet to polish off a delectable dinner. Wow your family and friends with a Dutch Cranberry Apple Pie or a Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie from Crave Pie Studio. Or serve personalized pies that your guests can easily take home by ordering miniature pies from Southern Baked Pie Company. Each pie is individually wrapped and easy to use as a place setting decoration as well! We recommend the Chocolate Chess and Caramel Pecan pies.

For gluten-free dessert options, 2B Whole Gluten-Free Bakery offers miniature pumpkin pies that are as adorable as they are delicious! Finally, for those who are crazy for cake, order a Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake from Piece of Cake.

Now, you’re ready to host! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours…and pass the pie!

Have family coming to town and need a place for them to stay? Alpharetta is home to 30 cozy, upscale hotels. Be sure to look out for special deals and packages so your friends and family can save big this season on a holiday stay in Alpharetta.