Best Restaurants for Thanksgiving Dinner in San Francisco Bay Area

Looking to make your Thanksgiving meal effortless and memorable in the Bay Area? Whether you’re gathering with family in San Francisco, planning a leisurely dinner in the South Bay or escaping to Oakland or Marin for something special, this guide to the best restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in the San Francisco Bay Area has you covered. From upscale dining rooms featuring seasonal turkey and trimmings, to casual spots where kids can roam free and you can skip the cleanup — the region offers diverse settings to suit every style and budget. Here you’ll find a curated selection of venues celebrated for their warm hospitality, flavorful holiday menus, and inviting atmosphere. So reserve a table, relax and let these top-rated Bay Area restaurants handle the cooking while you focus on family, laughter and leftovers.

During Thanksgiving, Bay Area restaurants showcase festive menus filled with local flavors and seasonal favorites. From classic turkey dinners to California-inspired twists, you’ll find options across San Francisco, the Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, and Marin. Many offer vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, perfect for all guests. Explore our curated list of top Bay Area restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner and enjoy a delicious, stress-free holiday meal with family and friends.

The French Laundry

Address: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
Why visit?: The French Laundry, located in the heart of Napa Valley, is one of the most celebrated restaurants in the world. Chef Thomas Keller’s establishment is renowned for its dedication to impeccable French-inspired cuisine and its meticulous attention to detail. Set within a rustic, historic building, the restaurant’s ambiance is sophisticated and intimate, perfect for a memorable Thanksgiving meal. The French Laundry’s Thanksgiving menu showcases traditional flavors with a modern twist, such as turkey roasted with seasonal herbs, accompanied by carefully crafted sides and exquisite desserts. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared using locally-sourced ingredients from the restaurant’s own garden, enhancing the freshness and flavor. As a three-Michelin-starred establishment, The French Laundry offers an extraordinary dining experience that exemplifies luxury, making it a coveted spot for a holiday meal.
What to Order: Thanksgiving Tasting Menu featuring seasonal vegetables, roasted turkey breast, and classic French desserts.

Acquerello

Address: 1722 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Why visit? Acquerello offers an Italian fine-dining experience that combines elegance and warmth, perfect for a special Thanksgiving celebration. Housed in a former chapel, the restaurant boasts vaulted ceilings, white tablecloths, and a serene ambiance. Known for its exquisite pasta and artisanal dishes, Acquerello’s Thanksgiving menu includes unique takes on holiday classics with Italian influences. Expect turkey with Italian herbs, luxurious truffle pasta, and handcrafted desserts. The attentive service and carefully curated wine selection further elevate the experience, making Acquerello a top choice for a festive holiday meal. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Acquerello’s Thanksgiving offering promises a refined yet comforting dining experience with a distinctly Italian touch.
What to Order: Truffle-infused pasta, duck breast, and classic Italian panna cotta for dessert.

Epic Steak

Address: 369 Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
Why visit? Epic Steak combines modern elegance with stunning views of the Bay Bridge, creating an ideal setting for a Thanksgiving dinner. Known for its high-quality steaks, this upscale restaurant serves a Thanksgiving menu that includes both traditional and innovative dishes, from herb-roasted turkey to buttery mashed potatoes and indulgent pumpkin desserts. Epic Steak’s waterfront location and stylish decor make it a popular choice for holiday dining, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic surroundings as they indulge in a gourmet meal. The attentive staff and cozy ambiance make this a perfect spot for families or couples looking to celebrate Thanksgiving in style, with both meat lovers and seafood enthusiasts catered to.
What to Order: Dry-aged ribeye, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.

Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant

Address: 7871 River Rd, Forestville, CA 95436
Why visit? Located in the scenic Sonoma Wine Country, Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant offers an authentic farm-to-table dining experience, ideal for a relaxing Thanksgiving getaway. Set in a charming, rustic venue, the restaurant emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, many sourced directly from nearby farms. The Thanksgiving menu here includes a range of seasonal dishes, from roasted turkey to farm-fresh vegetables, creating a meal that is both delicious and sustainable. Farmhouse Inn’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with a countryside charm that’s perfect for a cozy holiday meal. With its commitment to organic ingredients and farm-to-table ethos, Farmhouse Inn provides a truly authentic and flavorful Thanksgiving experience.
What to Order: Seasonal vegetable tart, roasted turkey, and apple crumble with vanilla ice cream.

Michael Mina

Address: 252 California St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Why visit? Michael Mina is a culinary icon, and his namesake restaurant reflects his signature style: globally inspired dishes prepared with top-notch ingredients and meticulous technique. This upscale San Francisco restaurant offers a Thanksgiving menu that blends traditional flavors with international influences, such as Middle Eastern-inspired turkey with herb seasonings and a variety of unique side dishes. The ambiance at Michael Mina is chic and sophisticated, with a contemporary decor that complements the elevated cuisine. Known for its top-tier service and inventive approach to holiday meals, Michael Mina offers a Thanksgiving experience that is both refined and memorable, making it an exceptional choice for a special occasion.
What to Order: Lamb shawarma, roasted seasonal vegetables, and baklava with honey and pistachios.

Foreign Cinema

Address: 2534 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Why visit? Foreign Cinema combines dining with entertainment, offering an eclectic experience where guests can enjoy classic films projected on an outdoor screen while dining on seasonal dishes. The Thanksgiving menu includes a mix of Californian and Mediterranean flavors, with dishes like duck confit and seasonal sides. The restaurant’s ambiance, with its outdoor courtyard and twinkling lights, is both charming and romantic, making it a fantastic choice for a unique Thanksgiving celebration. Known for its creative menu and relaxed vibe, Foreign Cinema offers a holiday dining experience that is as enjoyable as it is delicious, perfect for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
What to Order: Grilled quail, seasonal salads, and warm bread pudding.

The Village Pub

Address: 2967 Woodside Rd, Woodside, CA 94062
Why visit? The Village Pub in Woodside offers a refined dining experience with a warm, inviting ambiance, ideal for a holiday meal. Known for its modern American cuisine with a touch of French influence, the restaurant focuses on using seasonal ingredients, many sourced from nearby farms. Thanksgiving at The Village Pub features classics like free-range turkey alongside innovative sides, ensuring each dish feels both comforting and exciting. The impeccable service and sophisticated decor enhance the dining experience, making it a beloved spot for a celebratory meal. With an extensive wine list, guests can perfectly complement their meal with local and international selections.
What to Order: Smoked trout salad, roasted turkey, and sticky toffee pudding

Fog Harbor Fish House

Address: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133
Why visit? Located on Pier 39 with sweeping views of the Bay, Fog Harbor Fish House is an ideal destination for seafood lovers looking to celebrate Thanksgiving. Known for its sustainably sourced seafood, the restaurant offers holiday specials alongside fresh oysters, clam chowder, and crab. The Thanksgiving menu includes traditional dishes with a coastal twist, making it a unique experience for guests. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, the atmosphere here is lively and scenic, ideal for family gatherings. The warm service and fresh flavors make it a memorable choice for a holiday meal.
What to Order: Dungeness crab, clam chowder, roasted turkey and pecan pie.

Alexander’s Steakhouse

Address: 448 Brannan St, San Francisco, CA 94107
Why visit? Alexander’s Steakhouse offers a unique fusion of American steakhouse traditions with Japanese-inspired flavors. For Thanksgiving, the restaurant curates a special menu that includes luxurious cuts of meat, like Wagyu beef, alongside traditional holiday sides with an Asian twist. The chic and modern decor, along with attentive service, provides a sophisticated setting for Thanksgiving dinner. Guests can enjoy a lavish meal with expertly prepared dishes, combining rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Alexander’s Steakhouse is an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their Thanksgiving celebration with high-quality steak and unique flavor combinations.
What to Order: Wagyu beef, truffle mashed potatoes, and mochi ice cream.

Boulevard

Address: 1 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Why visit? Boulevard is a San Francisco classic, renowned for its charming Art Nouveau decor and creative American cuisine. Located along the Embarcadero, this restaurant offers a Thanksgiving menu that is both elegant and comforting, with traditional dishes reimagined with seasonal California ingredients. The ambiance at Boulevard is cozy and intimate, making it ideal for a festive holiday meal. From perfectly roasted turkey to inventive side dishes, each course is designed to highlight the flavors of the season. Boulevard’s exceptional service and welcoming atmosphere make it a beloved choice for Thanksgiving in San Francisco, offering a dining experience that feels both special and familiar.
What to Order: Roast duck, Brussels sprouts, and chocolate torte.

Waterbar

Address: 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
Why visit? Waterbar is a seafood lover’s paradise, situated right on the Embarcadero with breathtaking views of the Bay. Known for its commitment to sustainable seafood, Waterbar offers a Thanksgiving menu that includes both traditional and ocean-inspired options, such as Dungeness crab and seasonal oysters. The ambiance is upscale and inviting, with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the waterfront. Dining here during Thanksgiving provides a unique twist on the holiday meal, with fresh seafood options complementing the turkey and side dishes. With its stylish interior and unbeatable views, Waterbar is a top choice for a sophisticated Thanksgiving dinner by the bay.
What to Order: Oyster sampler, Dungeness crab, and spiced pumpkin dessert.

Chez Panisse

Address: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709
Why visit? Chez Panisse in Berkeley is an icon of the farm-to-table movement, known for its seasonal ingredients and intimate ambiance. Alice Waters’ restaurant serves a thoughtfully crafted Thanksgiving menu, featuring organic turkey, seasonal vegetables, and rustic sides that showcase California's bountiful produce. The rustic decor and inviting atmosphere make it a cozy choice for holiday dining. Every dish at Chez Panisse emphasizes natural flavors and simplicity, reflecting Waters’ commitment to sustainable, local agriculture. Ideal for a Thanksgiving experience that’s wholesome yet elegant, Chez Panisse remains a celebrated destination for its commitment to quality and mindful eating.
What to Order: Roasted root vegetable salad, herb-roasted turkey, and pear/apple tart.

Auberge du Soleil

Address: 180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573
Why visit? Nestled in Napa Valley, Auberge du Soleil is an exquisite option for Thanksgiving, combining Michelin-starred dining with stunning vineyard views. The restaurant’s Mediterranean-inspired Thanksgiving menu includes refined takes on holiday classics, like turkey with Provençal herbs and truffle-infused sides. Known for its serene ambiance and impeccable service, Auberge du Soleil offers an upscale holiday experience that pairs culinary artistry with Napa’s beauty. Ideal for those seeking an indulgent, luxurious Thanksgiving, the restaurant also features a world-class wine list, offering guests a curated selection of Napa’s finest wines to accompany their meal.
What to Order: Duck breast, Herb-roasted turkey, seasonal squash soup, and poached pear with caramel sauce.

Nobu Palo Alto

Address: 180 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Why visit? Nobu Palo Alto offers a unique Thanksgiving experience, blending Japanese-inspired flavors with American holiday traditions. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Nobu’s sleek, modern ambiance is perfect for a refined holiday meal. The Thanksgiving menu often includes specialty items like miso-marinated turkey and sides with Asian influences, such as wasabi mashed potatoes. Known for its sushi and creative seafood dishes, Nobu Palo Alto provides a fusion experience that’s both innovative and comforting. With meticulous attention to detail in every dish, Nobu’s Thanksgiving offerings are perfect for those seeking a contemporary twist on traditional holiday flavors.
What to Order: Black cod with miso, crispy rice with spicy tuna, and matcha cheesecake.

One Market

Address: 1 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Why visit?One Market offers an elevated dining experience with a farm-to-table focus, ideal for a sophisticated Thanksgiving celebration. The restaurant’s seasonal Thanksgiving menu includes free-range turkey and sides crafted with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing California’s fresh produce. With stunning views of the Bay Bridge, One Market’s ambiance is chic yet welcoming, making it a great choice for family gatherings or romantic dinners. Known for its open kitchen and expert chefs, each dish is prepared with precision and care, offering guests a memorable meal. The wine selection at One Market complements its rich holiday flavors beautifully.
What to Order: Roasted turkey, sourdough stuffing, pumpkin brulee and spiced pumpkin tart.

Left Bank Brasserie

Address: 635 Santa Cruz Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025
Why visit? Left Bank Brasserie brings French-inspired flavors to Thanksgiving, blending traditional holiday elements with bistro charm. Located in Menlo Park, this restaurant offers a festive yet casual atmosphere perfect for a holiday meal with family or friends. The Thanksgiving menu includes roasted turkey with herb stuffing and sides influenced by French classics, such as ratatouille and pommes purée. Left Bank’s relaxed ambiance, paired with its focus on authentic French flavors, provides a comforting and delightful holiday dining experience. Known for its hearty portions and friendly service, Left Bank Brasserie makes Thanksgiving feel like a warm gathering in a Parisian bistro.
What to Order: Beef bourguignon, mashed potatoes, and apple tarte tatin.

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