Travel & Leisure
Mon, November 17, 2025
Sun, November 16, 2025
Sat, November 15, 2025
Fri, November 14, 2025
Coastal Luxury: Michelin-Star Thanksgiving in Monterey
//travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. xury-michelin-star-thanksgiving-in-monterey.html
Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, November 15th 2025 at 15:23 GMT by Travel + Leisure- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Travel + Leisure’s Guide to the Thanksgiving‑Hot Spots: A Quick Rundown
Every year, travelers who love a good meal are on the hunt for destinations that take Thanksgiving seriously. In its 2016 feature, Travel + Leisure compiled a hand‑picked list of places—ranging from ski‑resorts to seaside retreats—that go “all‑out” for the holiday. The article doesn’t merely suggest where to go; it explains why each spot stands out, highlighting menus, activities, and special touches that transform a regular holiday into a memorable culinary adventure.
1. A Classic Coastal Experience
The first stop is a venerable hotel on California’s Monterey Peninsula. The resort’s Thanksgiving dinner boasts a menu crafted by a Michelin‑star chef, featuring locally caught seafood, heirloom vegetables, and a dessert that doubles as a holiday centerpiece. The article notes the hotel’s family‑friendly atmosphere: a kids’ cooking class, a “Thanksgiving story time” for the little ones, and a nightly jazz set that keeps the adults entertained. The official site link in the article offers a full price breakdown and an online booking form.
2. A Rustic Lodge in the Sierra
Next up is a lodge nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The lodge’s Thanksgiving feast is a “farm‑to‑table” affair, with dishes sourced from a private orchard and an on‑site dairy farm. The resort also hosts a “Turkey‑Tasting” panel that explains how different cuts are prepared. Guests can spend the day hiking, skiing, or simply lounging by a crackling fireplace. The article links to the lodge’s website where you can view the “Specials” page and reserve a room.
3. A Luxury Mountain Escape
Travel + Leisure’s third pick is a ski‑resort in Colorado that offers a Thanksgiving package complete with a 5‑course meal, a private dining room, and a complimentary “Hot‑Tub & Roast” evening. The resort’s “All‑Inclusive” option, detailed on its website, includes a full board breakfast, a hearty dinner, and a dessert‑only dessert station for those who want to keep calories in check. The article quotes a guest who praised the resort’s “warm, family‑like vibe” during the holiday.
4. A Tropical Twist
Surprisingly, the article includes a Hawaiian resort that turns the Thanksgiving holiday into a tropical celebration. The resort’s signature dish is a slow‑roasted pork shoulder with a mango‑lime glaze, served alongside fresh coconuts and tropical fruit. In addition to the dinner, the resort offers a “Luau & Live Music” evening that mixes Hawaiian tradition with holiday cheer. Guests can book the package directly through the resort’s “Holiday Packages” page.
5. An Urban Icon
An iconic hotel in New York City is the fifth stop on the list. The hotel’s Thanksgiving banquet takes place in a grand ballroom, offering a menu that blends classic American dishes with innovative twists—think truffle‑infused mashed potatoes and a cranberry‑scented chocolate mousse. The article highlights the hotel’s “Kids’ Corner,” where children can enjoy a special “Thanksgiving cookie‑making” activity. The official link leads to the hotel’s “Special Events” page for pricing and availability.
6. A Lakeside Retreat
The article’s sixth recommendation is a lakeside resort in Minnesota. Guests can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner featuring venison, duck, and locally sourced berries, followed by a “Sledding & Storytelling” night. The resort’s website offers a “Family Package” that includes room rates, the dinner, and a small gift basket for each child. The article notes that the resort has been a favorite among locals for generations.
7. A Historic Spa
Next is a historic spa in Vermont that pairs a Thanksgiving dinner with a day of relaxation. The spa’s menu is a blend of seasonal produce and craft cocktails, all served in a rustic yet luxurious setting. The article points out the spa’s “Holiday Massage” special, which includes a Thanksgiving‑inspired massage technique. The spa’s “Holiday Packages” page is linked for more detail.
8. A Mountain Lodge in the Adirondacks
The eighth destination is a lodge in the Adirondack Mountains. The lodge offers a Thanksgiving feast that emphasizes “farm‑to‑table” ingredients, with a special focus on local maple syrup. The article notes that the lodge hosts a “Turkey‑Tasting” event where guests can sample different preparation styles. Reservations can be made via the lodge’s “Specials” page.
9. A Luxury Beach Resort
A beach resort in the Caribbean rounds out the top 10. The resort offers a Thanksgiving dinner with a view of the sunset, featuring a seafood and poultry selection that highlights the region’s flavors. The resort also offers a “Family Activity” lineup that includes a sandcastle‑building contest and a “Thanksgiving‑Themed” treasure hunt. The resort’s “Holiday Specials” page is linked for details on the Thanksgiving package.
10. A Classic Hotel in the Midwest
The final stop on the list is a hotel in Chicago that has been known to deliver a “classic” Thanksgiving dinner since the 1950s. The menu includes a traditional turkey, cranberry sauce, and a signature apple pie. The hotel’s “Kids’ Club” hosts a “Turkey‑Craft” afternoon, while the adults can enjoy a “Live Piano” performance after dinner. The article links directly to the hotel’s “Specials” page for booking.
Why These Destinations Stand Out
Travel + Leisure’s feature isn’t just a checklist—it’s a guide that explains the experience behind each place:
- Menu Craftsmanship: All restaurants highlighted showcase a Thanksgiving menu that’s more than a turkey. From locally sourced ingredients to culinary creativity, the meals are designed to impress.
- Family‑Centric Activities: Whether it’s a cooking class for kids, a storytelling session, or a themed game, every location offers something for the whole family.
- Special Events: The resort‑specific events—be it a “Turkey‑Tasting” panel or a holiday luau—add a layer of exclusivity that sets these spots apart from ordinary holiday trips.
- Accessible Pricing: The article provides links to each place’s booking page, where you can find detailed pricing for rooms, meals, and packages, making it easier for readers to plan their budgets.
How to Book
The original article is structured as a quick “click‑through” guide. Each destination is followed by a brief description and a link to the official booking page or specials section. Whether you’re looking for a rustic lodge, a tropical escape, or an urban boutique hotel, the article ensures you have all the information needed to reserve a spot for Thanksgiving.
In a nutshell: Travel + Leisure’s 2016 list shines a spotlight on places that elevate Thanksgiving from a simple family gathering to an elaborate celebration. The article provides a concise yet comprehensive snapshot—menu highlights, unique activities, and direct links—making it a go‑to reference for anyone looking to “go all‑out” this holiday season.*
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/places-that-go-all-out-for-thanksgiving-11838252 ]
