Sassy Mama’s Guide to Thanksgiving 2014!

Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, roast ham, sweet potato mash, cornbread, candied yams, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie… are your mouths watering yet? One of the best holidays of the year (in our opinion, second only to Christmas!) is just around the corner, and just because we’re in Hong Kong doesn’t mean we’re letting this turkey feast pass us by!

If you can’t make it back home for the holiday, don’t despair: You can have a Happy Thanksgiving anywhere as long as you’re with your hubby and little ones, and you’ve got all the food fixin’s of course! Don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered with Sassy Mama’s Guide to Thanksgiving 2014! From suave and sophisticated restaurants, to homey American takeaways and everything in between, you’ll have no shortage of thanks to give when you’re going back for thirds at these fabulous dinners. Celebrate this holiday the right way: with your family and a whole lot of food!

 

TRADITIONAL

If you’re a true-blue American mama who wouldn’t dream of a Thanksgiving dinner without turkey, stuffing and plenty of extras, these are the top picks for you!

Blue Butcher Bar & Restaurant
You know them for their incredible passion for steak, but don’t overlook Blue Butcher this Thanksgiving! Back by popular demand, you can get their Hunter Valley free-range turkey and all the traditional (and not so traditional) trimmings, like classic homemade stuffing, or roasted candied bacon Brussels sprouts, and of course a hearty slice of pumpkin pie. All of their turkeys are raised with the highest quality of life on the banks of the Hunter River, and fed locally produced grains rich in minerals to produce their incredible flavour.

When: From 27 November onwards
How much: Half or whole Hunter Valley free-range turkeys for either 3-6 or 6-8 people; $940 or $1,860. All turkeys must be ordered at least 72 hours in advance.

Blue Butcher Bar & Restaurant, 108 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2613 9286, www.bluebutcher.com

Restoration
For a taste of soul, head to New Orleans-inspired Restoration and feast on their all-you-can-eat Thanksgiving deal. Don’t expect your standard roast turkey dinner here, Restoration’s turkeys are fried in true southern style – and served with the finest country-style sides, including everyone’s favourite guilty pleasure: marshmallow sweet potato casserole. For an extra $100, you can upgrade your turkey to one of their famous fried Turduckens, a purely American creation of Frankenstein-proportions that will never disappoint – why settle for just a turkey when you can have a chicken, in a duck, in a turkey? Make sure you save room for dessert, because you don’t want to miss out on their classic pies!

When: 27 November
How much: Thanksgiving lunch is $298 and Thanksgiving dinner is $598.

Restoration, 63 Wyndham Street, 1/F, Central, Hong Kong, 2536 0183, www.restoration.hk

Lily & BLOOM
Lily & BLOOM’s Thanksgiving fixings are true American-style with all the fixin’s. We’re talking unbelievably creamy potato puree, collard greens with bacon, mac & cheese, stuffing, and of course, a giant fried turkey! Plus, the beautiful interior of the restaurant creates a warm atmosphere to celebrate the holiday with your loved ones. For a hungry family order the whole turkey and your choice of four yummy Thanksgiving sides! Takeout is also available if you would prefer to eat your turkey at home with no worry of having to subtly unbutton your pants…

When: 24-27 November
How much: Whole birds, $2,200 with 4 sides. Half birds $1,880 with 4 sides.

Bloom, Hotel Lkf By Rhombus, 33 Wyndham St, Hong Kong, 2810 6166, www.lily-bloom.com

Main St. Deli
Back in New York, people would think you were crazy if you had your Thanksgiving catered by a deli, but in Hong Kong, people might think you’re crazy if you don’t! The Langham’s Main St. Deli is offering up an amazing Thanksgiving spread this year, with Maine crab cakes, butternut squash bisque and desserts to die for (cinnamon ice cream people!) in addition to a roasted American turkey with all the mouthwatering sides you’re craving. For larger groups, you can book one of their “Turkey Party” combinations for up to 10 people! Let someone else do the work for once, mama!

When: 27 November, but it’s all booked up! Call to get on their waitlist.
How much: $348 for dinner, $2,288 for small combination, $2,688 for large combination, 48 hours advance booking necessary. See the takeaway menu here!

Main St. Deli, The Langham Hong Kong, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2132 7898, www.hongkong.langhamhotels.com/restaurants/main_st_deli.htm

The Bostonian
The Langham Hotel’s other American restaurant, The Bostonian, won’t let you down for turkey-day! The warm décor and soft lighting gives it an intimate vibe, perfect for when you would rather be at home but just don’t have the space. For a romantic evening, make a reservation for you and your man! Their menu this year features some classic New England favourites, like an heirloom tomato and crab salad and a spicy lobster and scampi chowder in addition to their classic roast turkey and sides!

When: 27 November
How much: $578 for 3 courses, $750 for 4 courses.

The Bostonian, The Langham Hong Kong, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2132 7898, www.hongkong.langhamhotels.com/restaurants/bostonian_restaurant.htm 

Dan Ryan’s Chicago Grill and LUCQUES Tavern
It’s an American holiday, so how could we not feature Dan Ryan’s? You know the kids will love it! This year they are offering up all the standard grub you love, including candied yams and even a relish tray! The mashed potatoes are our favorite – there’s no better side to a roast turkey! Finish the night off with either an apple or pumpkin pie, two of their signature desserts. You can even take the turkey and pies home with you (and take all the credit – we won’t tell!).

When: 27 November
How much: $398 for 4 courses (adults), $208 for 4 courses (children). Takeaway turkeys are $1,380. Individual pies are $280.

Dan Ryan’s Chicago Grill, Pacific Place, 112 Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2845 4600, www.danryans.com/windycity

Dan Ryan’s Chicago Grill and LUCQUES tavern, Festival Walk, LG228 Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2265 8811, www.danryans.com/windycity

Mott 32
If you’re not sure how you like your turkey served, we found the perfect restaurant for you! Mott 32 offers a Thanksgiving turkey dinner three different ways: a whole BBQ roasted free range turkey, followed by a turkey and five shade salad with different fruits and nuts mixed in, and minced turkey served with chestnut and mushroom in a crisp lettuce cup. Can you say elaborate!? For a turkey ‘stuffed’ Thanksgiving make your reservation now, mamas!

When: 24 November
How much: $1,680 per person.

Mott 32, Basement, Standard Chartered Building, 4-4a Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2885 8688, www.mott32.com

 

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

After so many years of the same old dishes, you’re ready to spread your Epicurean wings and try something new. These restaurants each have put their own unique spin on the traditional, so why not give them a try and enjoy your favourite seasonal flavours in a whole new way!

BRICK LANE
Nothing screams the start of the holiday season quite like a festive drink, and we’re not talking Pumpkin Spice Lattes. We can’t wait to try the brandy egg nog and gingerbread martinis in December, but for Thanksgiving we are drooling over the warm spiced cider and the cranberry cosmo… yum! In the spirit of giving, orders over $500 even get a free bottle of house wine – that’s certainly something to be thankful for! There’s more to Brick Lane than just the cocktails, check out their fun take on a traditional Thanksgiving here! Don’t miss out on the Parent-Child Brunch and workshop on the 30th of November, where you can enjoy a delicious brunch with your little one and decorate cupcakes to take home! Brick Lane may be London through and through, but this trendy eatery knows how to win an American heart.

When: 27-30 November
How much: Prices vary, check out their menu here; 48 hour pre-booking is required. Brunch and workshop is $480 per parent-child pair.

BRICK LANE, Shop 404, 4/F, CITIC Tower, 1 Tim Mei Avenue, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2362 2500, www.bricklane.com.hk

BRICK LANE, G/F, 2 Blenheim Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2736 8893, www.bricklane.com.hk

Liberty Exchange
Central-ites favourite bar has more than great drinks and a cosy decor, it has a great Thanksgiving menu too! Nothing says autumn like sweet potato gnocchi, or a sage bread pudding. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, their chicken broth soup is packed with all the super foods you could ever want: kale, quinoa, squash – you’ll be feeling so healthy and fresh after that, how could you not tackle that pumpkin meringue pie?

When: 26-28 November
How much: $558 for 4 courses.

Liberty Exchange, 2 Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong, 2810 8400, www.lex.hk

The Peak Lookout
Enjoy a relaxing holiday and great food at The Peak Lookout, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sit back and take in the unparalleled view of Aberdeen Harbour while you tuck into a Thanksgiving menu with a continental twist, like winter truffle potato purée and roasted parsnip soup accented with warm toasted pecans. It’s hard to not be thankful when you’re enjoying the stunning view with your family and listening to the nightly band playing away in the background!

When: 27 November
How much: $428 for 4 courses.

The Peak Lookout, 121 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 1000, www.peaklookout.com.hk/index.htm

Red Bar + Restaurant
If you’re looking to fuse your American roots with your Hong Kong wings, there’s no better way to celebrate than at Red Bar, where you get the best views of Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon Peninsula. This season they’re offering a set Lunch and Dinner menu catering to everyone from the begrudging Brit, who will love their traditional roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, to patriotic vegetarians who will be blown away by eggplant and wild mushroom charlotte with spicy ratatouille. The puritans in the party will be in heaven munching on ginger glazed carrots and dunking roast turkey in homemade gravy. An extra bonus? Pure card holders get 10% off their meal!

When: 24-28 November
How much: Thanksgiving lunch is $298 and Thanksgiving dinner is $368.

Red Bar + Restaurant, 4/F, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong, 8129 8882,
www.pure-red.com/en/hongkong

Grassroots Pantry
If you’re a vegetarian mama have no fear! Grassroots’ award winning, organic, locally sourced and sustainable veggie meals will save the day. They even have gluten-free, sugar-free and vegan-friendly options! While they aren’t offering a Thanksgiving menu, you won’t be disappointed by their everyday fare – like the Vietnamese Bun Chay, made with a honey-grilled hedgehog mushroom, that will leave even the biggest carnivores envious. Bonus – they make dessert! It may not be traditional, but spice up your Thanksgiving with a Raw Mango Dark Chocolate Bavarois; that’s something to be thankful for!

How much: Check out the seasonal menu here.

Grassroots Pantry, 12 Fuk Sau Lane, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, 2873 3553, www.grassrootspantry.com

The Mandarin Oriental
This year we are spoiled for choice at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, an instution that needs no more introduction. For the first time, four of their restaurants will be serving up Thanksgiving feasts. Head to the classic and cosy Chinnery for a taste of luxury and tradition, or try one of Executive Chef Uwe Opocensky’s gastronomic creations at The Mandarin Grill + Bar. If you’re feeling a little more glutinous (as you should be on Thanksgiving!) check out the festive lunch and dinner buffets at Clipper Lounge and Café Causette, just don’t miss out on their slow-braised pork cheek and ample cakes and puddings!

When: The Chinnery and The Mandarin Bar + Grill are serving up their Thanksgiving creations on 27 November and Clipper Lounge and Café Causette have got their festive lunch and dinner buffets from 25-30 November.
How much: Prices start from $228; call ahead for full pricing details.

The Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2825 4061, www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong

 

TAKEAWAY

While having someone do all the work for you at a restaurant is nice, sometimes you just can’t beat a traditional Thanksgiving feast at home – there’s no fear of being asked to leave when you unbutton your stretchy trousers or stopping your kids from playing with the food! Here are our picks for dinner at home without the stress – all you have to do is order, eat and eat some more.

85 South
If it’s just not the holidays without sweet tea and grandma’s homemade Mac & Cheese, you need to head to 85 South and get yourself a real, honest-to-goodness Carolina Thanksgiving. While the kids rejoice over their favorite meal of Mac & Cheese, you can turn to the real Thanksgiving dinner! Their smoked turkeys are back this year, and each turkey is marinated overnight and smoked to crisp, brown perfection on hickory wood chips, locking in all that rich flavour. Pile up on their generous side dishes – nothing feels as much like home as a creamy mac, or classic green-bean casserole! If you can’t make it back to the States, their classic southern dishes are the next best thing.

When: Available through December
How much: Prices start from $1,500 for a 7kg turkey with stuffing and gravy.

85 South, 6-10 Kau U Fong, Central, Hong Kong, 2337 2078, www.85south.hk

Delivery.com
Want a delicious Thanksgiving turkey delivered right to your doorstep? Delivery.com has you covered with delicious holiday dishes from Hot Chic, 85 South, Tai Tai Pie Pie and more. Different sizes of slow-roasted turkeys are available from Hot Chic, and smoked turkeys from 85 South can be ordered for delivery 48 hours in advance. Then order two tasty pies made by Tai Tai Pie Pie and get a third pie for free! Sounds pretty irresistible to us!

When: Thanksgiving week
How much: Prices between $800-$2,300

Invisible Kitchen
If you prefer being at home on Thanksgiving, let the chefs come to you with an expertly crafted, all natural hamper from Invisible Kitchen. The team of expert chefs – led by Michelin-trained Tom Burney – have carefully crafted the perfect Thanksgiving dinner for your family, with none of the hassle. Enjoy the holiday with your family and let Invisible Kitchen do all the cooking! The hamper serves 6-8 people and comes with everything you need, like triple-cooked duck fat potatoes, red-wine braised cabbage, and of course a beautiful turkey and stuffing! If you’re looking to entertain a bigger crowd, they have party options too!

When: Available through December
How much: $2,000 with delivery.

Invisible Kitchen, Unit 8, 24/F, Honour Industrial Building, 6 Sun Yip Street, Su Sai Wan, Hong Kong, 6227 5730, www.invisiblekitchen.com

The Mandarin Cake Shop
If you want the glamour of the Mandarin Oriental in the comfort of your own home, or maybe just crave the envy of your fellow mamas (‘oh it took ages to cook, but I loved every minute!’), order one of the Mandarin’s stylish Thanksgiving takeaway boxes from their cake shop. Each box comes with either a 7kg or 10kg turkey or honey glazed ham and your choice of trimmings and cake – we can’t keep our eyes off of that gorgeous salted butter pecan pie! You can customise your hamper or get one ready made using their order form, just make sure you get it back to them in time so you don’t miss out!

When: 18 November – 1 December
How much: A small hamper is $2,088 and a large hamper is $2,488.

The Mandarin Cake Shop, 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2825 4008, www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong/fine-dining/the-mandarin-cake-shop

Sunday’s Grocery
Kennedy Town’s favourite sandwich shop is outdoing themselves yet again with their Thanksgiving dinner package. The package will feed a family of 4-6 and comes with chestnut stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, sweet and mashed potatoes and Tony’s Chocolonely Chocolate Bars! Add a booze package to celebrate the holiday with your hubby! Email [email protected] before 20 November to get yours!

When: Order before 20 November and delivery is on 27 November
How much: $1,888 for the dinner, additional charges apply for alcohol

Sunday’s Grocery, 66-68 Catchick Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, 2628 6001, www.sundaysgrocery.com

Tai Tai Pie Pies
We don’t care how good your turkey is, it’s not Thanksgiving without a beautiful pie (or 10) tempting you off throughout dinner. If you still haven’t mastered your buttery crusts, or if you’re too busy with the kids to get busy in the kitchen, get your sweet fix from this not-so-hidden-gem. They’re even having a 10% discount on Thanksgiving when you use their special promo code, THANKSGIVING, before 10 November. If you order 10 pies, that’s like getting one for free. You’re practically making money! We’re sure someone in the house can finish them…

How much: Price varies between $400-500.

Tai Tai Pie Pies, G/F, Shun Feng Industrial Centre, 182 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.taitaipiepies.com

Whatever you decide to do this year, we’re wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving. It’s not always easy being an expat, but it can certainly be delicious! Happy Thanksgiving, mamas!