Maybe the turkey was ruined, the dishwasher broke, or maybe your Aunt Edna doesn't like your living room decor. For whatever reason, some folks like to dine out and not worry about all the details.
In many cases, there are some exceptional meals by top-of-the-line chefs to be enjoyed on the holiday, sometimes even at a relative bargain.
Cafe Gray was not one of those bargains.
Perched a few stories up from Columbus Circle in New York City, chef Gray Kunz' restaurant offered the ultimate in Thanksgiving dinners. More of an all-day affair, Cafe Gray provided its guests with a view of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade followed by an open bar and turkey carving demonstration by the chef. The dinner consisted of elements such as truffled butternut squash potage, lobster and crab meat gratin and "Million-Dollar Pie." A steal at just $833 for a seat at the chef's table, it's a shame the restaurant is no longer open.
Other more "in business" high-end restaurants around the country offer impressive Thanksgiving dinners with prix fixe menus averaging $50 to $90 per person. The NoMad in New York will be serving their $125 four-course menu, which will include roasted chicken, stuffed with foie gras, brioche and black truffles.
Keep in mind choosing to fine-dine out also means no leftover turkey sandwiches for a week.