Why Hosts Are Embracing Thanksgiving Takeout
Thanksgiving used to mean one thing: A long day in the kitchen, pots bubbling and every oven rack occupied. But in 2024, hosts are finding ways to reclaim their holiday time without sacrificing the feast. It turns out, ordering Thanksgiving takeout isn’t just an option – it’s becoming the new normal.
Gone are the days when hosting Thanksgiving meant hours in the kitchen, orchestrating a dozen dishes while trying to keep every detail just right. Today, more hosts are embracing Thanksgiving takeout, allowing them to reclaim their holiday time without giving up the feast. With an array of gourmet options available at the tap of a finger, from perfectly roasted turkeys to chef-inspired sides, families can now enjoy the flavors they love minus the stress.
Why takeout works for today’s Thanksgiving
There’s no getting around it – Thanksgiving is a production. So when Popmenu’s survey found that 64% of people who order Thanksgiving takeout do so because it’s simply easier, it makes perfect sense. For a lot of people, easier is music to their ears.
The real stars: Sides and sweets
Turkey might be the headliner, but let’s be honest – Thanksgiving’s real charm is in the side dishes and desserts. According to survey results compiled by Restaurant Business in 2023, almost half of the people who bought restaurant Thanksgiving items chose the sides, with mashed potatoes, stuffing and green beans leading the way. Meanwhile, 41% opted for ready-made desserts, making dishes like a no-bake pecan pie cheesecake an easy choice when time – and oven space – is limited.
Why more families are embracing takeout on Thanksgiving
Take Jennifer, an empty nester from Maine who runs a food blog called Kitchen Serf. This year, Jennifer is skipping her usual Thanksgiving marathon and going full-on takeout. “I’ve been preparing Thanksgiving feasts for well over 20 years and it’s time for a break! My grown son won’t be home for a holiday visit until January anyway, so I’m choosing takeout for this Thanksgiving,” she says.
Restaurants are ready for the rush
With takeout Thanksgiving on the rise, restaurants are stepping up to meet the demand. Many are adding streamlined ordering systems and digital options to keep everything running smoothly. Some even use AI to answer the phones and manage orders so customers don’t get stuck waiting in line or, worse, on hold.
Thanksgiving with a modern twist
Thanksgiving takeout gives today’s hosts the best of both worlds. They can serve up a delicious feast with less hassle and more time for what matters most – being with family. So whether it’s picking up a few ready-made sides, or ordering the whole meal from a favorite spot, there’s something comforting in knowing that Thanksgiving can still feel special, even when it’s made with a little extra help.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving takeout is no longer just an option, but a modern way to enjoy the holiday with family and friends. With the convenience of ordering in and the variety of options available, it’s the perfect way to reclaim your holiday time and focus on what truly matters – the people around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is ordering Thanksgiving takeout a sign of laziness?
A: Absolutely not! Ordering takeout is a sign of being smart and practical, allowing you to prioritize what matters most – time with family and friends.
Q: Will restaurants be able to handle the increased demand for takeout?
A: Yes, restaurants are prepared to meet the demand for takeout this Thanksgiving, with many adding streamlined ordering systems and digital options to keep everything running smoothly.
Q: What are some popular takeout options for Thanksgiving?
A: Many restaurants are offering a variety of takeout options, including perfectly roasted turkeys, chef-inspired sides, and ready-made desserts.
