So, you've got the turkey covered for Thanksgiving but you're still overwhelmed? Focusing on what you really want to cook at home and picking up the rest can save a lot of time and headaches.
This handy guide includes suggestions from Houston Press readers and staff. Some of what's listed here have become new traditions for my own Thanksgiving table.
When a restaurant is noted, it is extremely important to contact them immediately. They all have a cutoff time when they are no longer able to take or fulfill orders.
See our other holiday food and drink suggestions: Dine Out on Turkey Day: Where to Eat This Thanksgiving in Houston These Houston Area Grocery Stores Are Open on Thanksgiving Day 10 Things Your Mother Didn't Teach You About Thanksgiving Wines
If a store is listed, assume there will be crowds and the staff will be busy. Prepare to be patient and understanding when you walk in. Most people are doing the best job they can under some trying conditions.
With that out of the way, it's time to do the final planning and say "cheers" to a stress-free meal!
Wine
Tell the good folks at Houston Wine Merchant (2646 S Shepherd) what you are serving for the holiday meal and they will guide you to the proper selections. Don't forget about sparkling wine to start your guests off with as well as a good dessert wine like Royal Tokai, Sauternes or Port to send everyone off on a good note.
You may or may not be able to get advice here, depending on how busy the store is, but it's hard to beat Spec's pricing when you have a good idea already of what you'd like to pour. There's also no place with a bigger or better selection of craft beers than the downtown location at 2410 Smith.
Also, you can pick up sparkling, non-alcoholic cider here for kids and those who do not drink alcohol. Everyone love bubbles.
Charcuterie and Cheese
Houston Dairymaids
A trip to Houston Dairymaids' warehouse at 2201 Airline will take your cheese platter from boring to "whoa baby"! A great cheese platter has three to five different kinds: something to please every palate. Consider a range--soft, hard, mild, pungent--so that every guest can find something to his or her liking. Kids or picky eaters probably aren't going to enjoy a tour of blue cheese from around the world.
Houston Dairymaids additionally has a small by good selection of complements for cheese like Marcona almonds, honey and jams.
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