Food & Drink NOVEMBER 19, 2020

Don’t Cook at Home This Thanksgiving

Restaurants need the big holiday sales more than ever

By Troy Johnson

Dishpan hands are a trendy malady in our house these days. We’re going retro with our small hurts. Might try scurvy next week. The pads of my fingers are sore and cranky, my palms a vulnerable shade of pink, like those states on the digital election maps that CNN and Fox thought would eventually go red. My hands currently lean Republican.

I’ve never related more to stay-at-home parents who both parented and homed before the dishwasher was invented. I’m sure the first dishwashing machines were terrible. Better to let the dog lick the plate. But if I were in charge of dishes for my brood back then, I would lie on the machine’s behalf. “The machine leaves the food that’s still good enough to eat, so bon appétit,” I’d tell my family as they tried to scrape off the petrified granules. Food poisoning would be no match for my desperation.

Anyway, point is. Thanksgiving is next week and I’m not going to do any dishes. I’m going to pick a small local restaurant that I love—one that seems to be struggling—and order as much as I’m financially able. I’m going to order enough for leftovers.

I urge everyone who is able to do the same. Let’s try to order as much as we can from independent restaurants. They need as many orders as they can handle, and here’s why:

With business restricted to mostly (currently only) outdoor dining, local restaurants have survived on the PPP money and sunshine/warmer temps that make outdoor dining appealing. Now, PPP money has run out for many if not most restaurants, Congress has yet to pass another aid package, insurance companies are not helping, and the wind is getting nippier.
The first few months of every year—January through March—are always the slowest for restaurants. (September is also historically terrible.) They survive those by hosting or catering as many holiday parties as possible. Well, holiday party season is canceled this year. That lifeline income is not coming in. So that makes the marquee sales days, like Thanksgiving, even more important to get them through. For an industry that, on average, has a 3-to-5-percent profit margin (meaning they take home a nickel or less out of every dollar you spend), there is very little room for error.
Depending on which stat you look at, usually about 10 percent of Americans dine out for Thanksgiving. That may not sound like much, but it’s enough for restaurants to have a banner sales day. With COVID-19 peaking yet again and restrictions in place, that banner day is gutted.
Dishes suck.

Let’s help local restaurants sell out for Thanksgiving. Let’s send them so many orders that they have to cut it off. And when one says they’re sold out, move on to the next. Expand your ideas of the holiday meal. Don’t just think turkey and Americana. Have a ramen Thanksgiving where the whole family slurps together. Do an Ethiopian Thanksgiving where everyone tears at a huge roll of injera and dredges it into a spicy stew. Order a huge thing of birria that will keep you fed for days.

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To help with this, here’s a list our awesome intern Kayla Wong put together. It’s just a small starter list. Call your favorite restaurant—especially a small one you think may really need it—and order enough for a feast.

Lastly, I know that we’re all in various stages of financial distress right now. On KPBS Midday Edition this week, I was asked what people can do to help if they can’t afford to order takeout. That was a tough question because, of course, first and foremost you should take care of yourself and your family. But even if you can’t afford a restaurant meal right now, you can help. Post to social media your own list of favorite dishes and favorite restaurants. Post a photo of what you’ll eat when we get through this. People who are able to eat out may see that and follow your recommendations.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Gelson’s Simply Delicious Dinners are precooked and ready to heat, serve, and enjoy at home.

About Troy Johnson

Troy Johnson is the magazine’s award-winning food writer and humorist, and a long-standing expert on Food Network. His work has been featured on NatGeo, Travel Channel, NPR, and in Food Matters, a textbook of the best American food writing.

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Food & Drink NOVEMBER 4, 2024

Where to Get Thanksgiving Dinner in San Diego, 2024

Choose from more than 30 local restaurants offering holiday feasts for a sit-down or take-out meal with friends and family

By Julie Bogen

It’s nearly Thanksgiving, and this year’s selection of prix-fixe, to-go, and specialty menus from restaurants in San Diego will satisfy any craving. Between mouthwatering turkey buffets, oven-ready prepared meals, and desserts you’ll be dreaming about for months, everyone can enjoy the only thing better than a home-cooked meal: One you don’t have to make yourself. Here are 30 San Diego restaurants—including some of the city’s best—that are serving Thanksgiving dinner this year.

Dinner Specials | Buffets | Take-Home Meals

Thanksgiving Dinner Specials in San Diego

Lilian’s at Rancho Santa Fe

Named after The Inn’s designer and architect, Lilian Rice, Lilian’s is serving a four-course dinner for $125 this Thanksgiving. The Rancho Santa Fe restaurant is offering options for each course, including perfectly fried and crispy squash blossoms, slow-roasted beets with creamy burrata, and a fall-off-the-bone 24-hour brandt beef short rib plate. Complement your meal with the restaurant’s iconic specialty drinks. Reservations are now available.

Time: 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Price: $125 per adult, $45 for children 12 and under
Address: 5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe

Cafe Champagne at Thornton Winery

Cafe Champagne at Thornton Winery in Temecula will host an all-day Thanksgiving affair, during which attendees should expect a memorable experience where they can indulge in a choose-your-own three-course meal alongside award-winning wines. Classic entrees will include butter truffle roasted turkey with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, or butternut squash ravioli and focaccia bread. The meal will run from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and reservations are required via Opentable.

Time: 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Price: $105 Adults; $94.50 Wine Club; $89.25 Reserve Club; $32.95 Children 5-10 and up; plus tax & gratuity
Address: 32575 Rancho California Rd, Temecula

Large group of people eating at San Diego restaurant and bar Nolita Hall in Little Italy

November 15, 2024

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Lia’s Lumpia

In Barrio Logan, the food-truck-turned-brick-and-mortar Lia’s Lumpia is renowned for its mouth-watering Filipino menu. Owner Spencer Hunter and his mother—the eponymous Lia—will be offering preorders for Thanksgiving Day to-go boxes until November 26. Will you get the pork belly deviled eggs or turkey holiday lumpia? The mango-glazed ham or cornish game hen adobo? Just make sure you save room for the pan de sal stuffing and persimmon green beans, maybe with a side of the toasted rice vanilla ice cream.

Time: Preorders available until November 26 for pickup on Thanksgiving Day between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Customers can make a reservation via text or email, and will receive a link to payment for pickup.
Price: $85 for two servings; $150 for four
Address: 2219 Logan Avenue, San Diego

Great Maple

Founded by award-winning restaurateur and San Diego native Johnny Rivera, this Hillcrest, Michelin-guide darling will be open for brunch from 8:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., serving a special of fried turkey, eggs, and pumpkin pecan caramel pancakes. Those who prefer a later Turkey day meal can join them for dinner starting at 11:30 a.m., or pick up one of Great Maple’s dinner boxes for two or four that includes a starter, salad, entree, and sweet from 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. the same day. This year, there will also be a special pie pickup—key lime or pumpkin with gingersnap crust—on both Wednesday, November 27, and Thursday, November 28. For reservations and pickup information, visit here.

Time: Dine-in from 8:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., pick-up from 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.; dine-in will be
Price: $160 for two; $295 for four
Address: 1451 Washington St, San Diego

Chefsgiving

On November 14, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., some of San Diego’s most decorated and respected chefs will join together to prepare a meal of their favorite Thanksgiving dishes, alongside carefully-selected wine pairings from The Prisoner Wine Company. Taste some of the city’s best of the best: duck carnitas from executive chef Roberto Alcocer of Valle Oceanside, dynamite lobster mac and cheese from executive chef Steven Ruiz at Lionfish, juicy turkey meatball with soy glaze from executive chef Brandon Sloan at Pendry San Diego, and pumpkin bars or a dark chocolate truffle torte for dessert. A portion of the proceeds will go to the San Diego Food Bank.

Time: 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Price: $150 per ticket
Address: Provisional Kitchen, 425 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Mister A’s

About Julie Bogen

Julie Bogen is an experienced writer and digital strategist whose work has been featured in The Atlantic, The 19th News, Cosmopolitan Magazine, and more. She is passionate about storytelling that centers women and marginalized communities, and when not working she's either with her family or in a barre studio.

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Food & Drink NOVEMBER 18, 2022

Where to Get Last-Minute Takeout Thanksgiving Dinners in San Diego

Zero shame. These 10 restaurants will save your day with Thanksgiving dinners to-go on November 25, 2022

By Ryan Hardison

Ranch 45 Thanksgiving dinners to-go

Credit: Chris Costa

You had plans and Pinterest recipes. But then, life. The soonest you could get a turkey was 2028. Don’t worry, we got you covered. Outsource it. Hell, maybe even lie a little and tell them the “cranberry crostata” is an old family recipe you just whipped up. “The brioche and sage stuffing? Just something we do around here.” Stay humble.

We put together a list of 10 kitchens throughout San Diego serving up the tastiest meals for your holiday celebration—that are still accepting orders. Here’s where to get Thanksgiving dinners in San Diego this year:

Provisional Kitchen

Pendry San Diego’s Gaslamp restaurant Provisional Kitchen is offering a three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving menu both in-house and available for takeout. To-go meals are $75 each and come with a free-range Diestel turkey and side dishes that serve two people. Orders must be received by November 22. There will also be holiday pies—classic spiced pumpkin and cranberry crostata—available for purchase. | 425 Fifth Ave, Gaslamp

Seasons 52

Seasons 52 is offering a Thanksgiving feast for the whole family featuring all of the holiday favorites. Their to-go Thanksgiving green box includes a roasted turkey, cranberry relish, brioche and sage stuffing, six pumpkin pie mini indulgences for dessert and more. Enough food to serve four to six people, the boxes can be picked up on Wednesday, November 23 and the meals just need to be reheated an hour before serving. Explore the full Thanksgiving to-go menu here. | 4505 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla

True Food Kitchen

For an alternative to the typical thanksgiving cuisine, head over to True Food Kitchen for seasonal offerings with a twist. Their Thanksgiving menu includes butternut squash soup, fall pesto pasta with roasted acorn squash and roasted acorn squash flatbread, all of which can be taken home. And for those interested in sweet treats to end your holiday feast, you can pick up a full-sized squash pie on November 21 or 22. | 4303 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla

Smokey & The Brisket

La Mesa BBQ joint Smokey & The Brisket are offering dine-in and to-go for the big day. Guests may order 4-6 person and 8-12 person meals that include smoked turkey, mashed potatoes, corn, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green beans and pumpkin pie. Pre-orders for Thanksgiving dinner must be done by Friday, November 18. | 5465 Lake Murray Boulevard, La Mesa

Ranch 45

Guests can assemble their own unique Thanksgiving meal at Ranch 45 with their a la carte pick up menu. Main course choices include herb crusted prime rib, smoked beef tenderloin, whole and grilled brandt tomahawk while soups, salads and sides like olive oil smashed potatoes will be on the menu as well. For those with a sweet tooth, there will also also be dessert selections like an assorted cookie box, pecan pie, apple crisp or pumpkin cheesecake. Place your order before Sunday, November 23 and pick up on Wednesday, November 23. | 512 Via De La Valle, Solana Beach

Trust Thanksgiving dinner

Courtesy of Trust Restaurant Group

TRUST Restaurant Group

Chef Brad Wise of TRUST Restaurant Group is cooking up a Thanksgiving to-go feast for 8 or more guests with everything you need on the holiday and more. Along with coffee and breakfast items to indulge in the morning after your feast, the box includes an 18-20 pound turkey, green bean & wild mushroom casserole, Italian sausage stuffing and baked macaroni and cheese. Wine and cocktail packages are also available to purchase for the big day. Boxes can be ordered here for pick up on Thanksgiving Eve with detailed instructions on how to reheat and serves. | 3752 Park Boulevard, Hillcrest

Cafe Gratitude San Diego

San Diegans can order their favorite holiday pies and sides from Cafe Gratitude and choose from a selection of plant-based dishes from now until November 20. Special dishes include cauliflower mashed potatoes with garlic confit, roasted maple miso brussels sprouts and roasted cranberry butternut squash with garnet yam purée. For dessert there’s pumpkin, chocolate coconut cream and baked apple pie also available for pre-order. | 1980 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego

Juniper & Ivy

Juniper & Ivy are offering two Thanksgiving packages, one to feed 8-12 ($420) and one for 4-6 people ($275). Menu items include turkey, sweet potato casserole, chestnut stuffing and a whole pumpkin pie. Guests may also pair their Thanksgiving dishes with a selection of wine pairings for Juniper & Ivy, meals can be purchased here and picked up on Wednesday, November 23. | 2228 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Highlighted by a butter-basted free-range turkey, croissant stuffing, and green bean casserole, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is offering a delicious Thanksgiving dinner to enjoy at home. The boxes include a turkey centerpiece, several sides and a pumpkin pie dessert for four people and cost $240. Order your box by Sunday, November 20 and pick it up on Wednesday November 23. To order your box, visit here or call the resort at (760) 930-7403. | 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad

The Winery Restaurant

For $425, guests can order a complete Thanksgiving dinner for 6-8 guests from The Winery Restaurant featuring a roasted free-range turkey that comes with Pinot-Noir Sage gravy and apple-sun dried cherries dressing courtesy of Chef Yvon Goetz. It also comes with streusel pumpkin pie and two classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, yams, or green beans and any extra sides can be added to your order for an additional charge. All orders must be placed by Saturday, November 19 at 12 p.m. It can be picked up on Wednesday, November 24 between 1:30 p.m. | 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla

About Ryan Hardison

Ryan Hardison is a freelance arts and entertainment writer and recent graduate of San Diego State. When he's not staring at his laptop, he's likely eating an adobada burrito or getting sunburnt at the beach.

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Food & Drink NOVEMBER 19, 2020

Let These 17 Local Restaurants Do the Cooking This Thanksgiving

Give thanks to San Diego chefs putting a gourmet spin on your holiday meal

By Kayla Wong

Addison

If you’re looking for a little extra something to be thankful for, San Diego’s only Michelin-starred restaurant is offering an eight-course dining experience, featuring holiday classics reimagined through the lens of California gastronomy prepared by chef William Bradley. The menu experience is $295 per person, with optional wine pairings available for $275. Service is from 5 to 8 p.m., and reservations for the terrace can be made via OpenTable.

5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar | 858-314-1900

Bahia Resort Hotel

Enjoy a family-style three-course prix fixe menu at the Bahia Resort Hotel. Choose from three Thanksgiving dinner entrée options: traditional carved turkey dinner, slow-roasted prime rib, or winter vegetable hash. If you prefer to dine at home, take your Thanksgiving meal to go. The cost is $49 per adult, $28 per child. Preorder by Tuesday, November 24 at 11 a.m.

998 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay | 858-539-7635

Café Gratitude

No turkeys will be harmed for this restaurant’s vegan-friendly à la carte Thanksgiving menu, which is available throughout November. Items include cranberry roasted butternut squash and garnet yams, maple miso brussels sprouts, and a persimmon and pomegranate salad. Holiday pies are also available for pickup through online preorders.

1980 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 619-736-5077

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

Enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu at Oceana Coastal Kitchen. For $59 per person, each dinner includes a Champagne toast as well as entrée options like oak-smoked turkey breast or Harris Ranch rib eye. Leave room for a dessert of classic pumpkin pie, baked-to-order brownie, or Grand Marnier crème brûlée. They also offer a family-style takeout option for parties of four or eight for $45 per person. Preorder by Tuesday, November 24 at 11 a.m.

3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Bay | 858-539-8635

Coastline at L’Auberge Del Mar

Celebrate Thanksgiving the San Diegan way, with ocean views, alfresco dining, and a four-course feast. The special will be offered on Thursday, November 26 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at $95 per person. The menu includes spins on Thanksgiving classics like heritage-breed roasted turkey with whipped potatoes, green beans, and white pepper gravy, in addition to decadent offerings like an 1855 Beef prime rib and chocolate miso budino.

1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar | 858-793-6467

Gelson’s

Whether you are hosting for two or for 12, Gelson’s Simply Delicious Dinners are precooked and ready to heat, serve, and enjoy at home. This year’s offerings include small, medium, and large whole roasted turkeys, half and whole spiral glazed hams, whole slow-roasted brisket, prime rib, and plant-based roast options. Order by November 24 and pick up November 20–December 1 at any of Gelson’s San Diego locations. Gelson’s will close early Thanksgiving Day, and all pickups that day should be completed by 1 p.m.

Multiple locations | 818-377-6494

Giardino

The Lemon Grove eatery will be open for its first Thanksgiving, offering an all-day menu from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Giardino’s family-style menu features à la carte items meant for sharing. Choose from entrées like prime rib or butternut squash ravioli, and holiday sides and salads. And don’t forget wine to pair with your meal! Want to keep things traditional? The eatery is also offering a classic turkey dinner which you can enjoy there or take to go.

8131 Broadway, Lemon Grove | 619-825-7112

The Gluten Free Baking Co.

If someone with food allergies is joining you this Thanksgiving, don’t fret! This North Park bakery is all gluten free, offering everything from traditional pumpkin pie and pecan pie to other gluten-free items like pasta, multigrain dinner rolls, quiche, mini banana-bread loaves, and more. If you want to bake your own pie at home, the bakery is also selling an allergen-free vegan pie crust dry mix and vegan frozen pie crust (bottom crust only). Order online at least three days in advance.

4594 30th Street, North Park | 858-270-9863

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Available for curbside pickup, this decadent family-style Thanksgiving feast includes chimney-roasted turkey with duck-fat-braised thighs, cornbread pecan stuffing, cranberry relish, pumpkin mousse, and more. The cost is $85 per person with a two-person minimum. Preorder by 12 p.m. on Thursday, November 19.

11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla |858-453-4420

Menya Ultra

Ramen lovers can still get in on the celebrations with one of Menya Ultra’s Thanksgiving home kit specials. Preorder a home kit, complete with broth, noodles, turkey, and classic ramen toppings, through their Google form by November 22.

8199 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Clairemont | 858-571-2010

8141 Mira Mesa Boulevard, Mira Mesa | 858-397-2247

Pacifica Del Mar

Make a reservation at this ocean-view eatery to enjoy their popular Thanksgiving menu. For $65, the multicourse menu will include a choice of a starter and an entrée, such as oven-roasted free-range turkey with the fixings, slow-cooked Angus prime rib, zinfandel-braised beef short ribs, or Pacifica’s seafood classics. End on a sweet note with your choice of dessert. Kids 12 and under can select from the kids’ menu for $20.

1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar | 858-792-0476

Parc Bistro

This Bankers Hill bistro will be offering Thanksgiving packages for takeout, which will include roasted butternut squash soup, roasted organic turkey, beef bourguignon, an assortment of sides, and two desserts. Prices range from $80 to $320 and can feed up to eight people.

Pickup times are from 12 to 3 p.m.

760 Fifth Avenue, Bankers Hill | 619-795-1501

Puffer Malarkey Collective

Herb & Wood, Herb & Sea, and Animae are joining forces to offer a to-go meal combining all of chef Brian Malarkey’s Thanksgiving favorites, including herb- and citrus-marinated turkey, crème fraîche mashed potatoes and whipped butter, house country wheat stuffing, apple and pear pie, and more. The cost is $59 per person and is available for preorder at herbandwood.com. Pickup is at Herb & Wood.

2210 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 610-955-8495

Ranch 45

Ranch 45’s à la carte Thanksgiving pickup menu is perfect for those picky eaters in the family. Customize your Thanksgiving feast with choices from herb-crusted prime rib and smoked turkey leg to smoked Cornish game hens, olive oil smashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, apple pie, and more. The butcher shop and eatery will be accepting orders up to 48 hours in advance.

512 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach | 858-461-0092

Salt & Straw

Enjoy a four-course ice cream feast with flavors inspired by classic American Thanksgiving dishes, with a twist. The offerings include cranberry juniper sorbet, sweet potato casserole with maple pecans, roasted peach and sage cornbread stuffing, and salted caramel Thanksgiving turkey. Flavors are available by the scoop or pint at Salt & Straw shops, as well as online. Guests visiting Salt & Straw locations can also preorder in advance for either pickup or local delivery.

1670 India Street, Little Italy | 619-542-9394

3705 Caminito Court, Del Mar | 858-345-1792

STK Steakhouse

For outdoor dining, delivery, or pickup, STK Steakhouse will be offering a menu with classic Thanksgiving dishes from November 26 through November 29, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy a roasted turkey special with all the fixings for $49 per adult or $29 per child 12 and under. For $100, they are also offering “Takeout Dinner for Two”: two prepared meals that come with pumpkin pie.

600 F Street, East Village | 619-354-5988

Trust Restaurant Group

Chef Brad Wise’s Thanksgiving to-go features some of his family’s favorites, along with holiday classics. Feast on oven-roasted turkey, Italian sausage stuffing, and truffled macaroni and cheese. The meal also includes a 12-ounce bag of Cardellino’s house blend coffee beans and a recipe for a cranberry-infused cocktail. The meal is $295 and feeds two to eight people. Orders must be placed by November 19 and picked up on November 26 at Cardellino from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

4033 Goldfinch Street, Mission Hills | 619-600-5311

STK Steakhouse

Studio S JULY 17, 2026

NOW CFO: Specialized Financial Solutions for San Diego Businesses

NOW CFO provides scalable, on-demand accounting and finance support to companies ranging from pre-revenue startups to billion-dollar businesses

By Partner Content

Entrepreneurs typically launch businesses because they’re passionate about a product or service, not because they want to manage its finances. While working to carve out a niche in their respective industries and drive their companies forward, many business owners find themselves bogged down by day-to-day accounting. Their existing accounting tools don’t provide the necessary visibility or insight, and they don’t have the time or resources to hire additional staff or a chief financial officer. That’s where NOW CFO comes in.

For more than 20 years, NOW CFO has been pairing businesses across the country with experienced accounting and finance professionals. Its outsourced model allows clients to customize solutions that match their individual needs, size, and financial challenges, whether that’s fractional or interim support, project-based services, or full-time placement.

NOW CFO’s clients range from startups preparing for rapid growth to established companies that need additional financial leadership without the commitment or expense of building an in-house team. However, many of these companies don’t fully understand their needs until they experience a “trigger” event: preparing for an acquisition or capital raise, navigating a first-time audit, or another period of transition. With a team of over 300 consultants nationwide, NOW CFO can start quickly and match the right expert to the right business.

“It’s important for companies to have financial visibility, and we can help them avoid a lot of the potholes that companies often run into,” says Mariah Block, a partner at NOW CFO’s San Diego branch. “Roughly half of our clients have an in-house finance person or department, and we’re resourced for more bandwidth when they need an extra set of hands at the staff or senior accountant level, or the controller or CFO level. Some clients use this a few hours a month and others use multiple people close to full-time. Our model is solution-based and customizable. We’re like a faucet you can turn on and off.”

With NOW CFO, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Solutions are based on the client’s individual goals, challenges, needs, and budget, meaning a client never pays for more than they need. Whether it’s a few hours of executive-level guidance or a full accounting team to support daily operations, NOW CFO meets businesses where they are and grows alongside them.

“We pride ourselves on providing our clients with the right resources at the right rate and being able to evolve as their needs evolve,” says Block.

And clients appreciate on-demand access to cost-effective support designed to improve performance and profitability.

Luxury car storage service Auto Concierge has partnered with NOW CFO to support growth over the past year. The arrangement began with a staff accountant who covered a leave of absence, but as the client’s needs changed, they also added a controller role. This allowed Auto Concierge to put effective processes in place and navigate operational challenges. Lori Church, Auto Concierge’s chief operating officer, says NOW CFO has been an “outstanding resource” and a “true strategic partner.”

“From the controller to the bookkeeper, every professional they’ve placed has brought a high level of expertise, responsiveness, and professionalism to our organization. Their team took the time to understand our business of high-profile clients and needs, adapted quickly to our fast-paced environment, and became a trusted extension of our team,” she says. “As Auto Concierge continues to grow, having a reliable financial partner like NOW CFO has allowed us to strengthen our financial and business operations while remaining focused on delivering exceptional service to our clients.”

Food & Drink NOVEMBER 13, 2013

SD Thanksgiving Guide 2013

Turkeys, buffets, catering, and more

By Katelyn Montero

Buffets, tasting menus, and prix fixe meals

Marina Kitchen offers a modern twist on Thanksgiving classics and American comfort food with its favorites like roasted butternut squash soup and brioche stuffing.

1:30-7 p.m. $48 for adults and $12.99 for children 12 and under. For reservations, call 619-699-8222.

Amaya La Jolla opens its doors to guests for its first winter holiday season with a choice of entrees that ranges from a traditional roasted turkey with dried cherry stuffing to Chilean sea bass. 12-8 p.m. $65 for adults and $25 for children ages 6-12. For reservations, call 858-750-3695.

The Grand Del Mar is home to two different fine dining experiences for the Thanksgiving Holidays. Amaya will feature a three-course tasting menu from 12:30-8 p.m. $78 for adults, $115 with wine pairings and $35 for children ages 6-12. Addison features a Thanksgiving-inspired seven-course menu from 3-8 p.m. $185 per person and $295 with wine pairings. For reservations to either restaurant, call 858-314-1996.

Pacifica Del Mar features eight different entrée selections for its three-course Thanksgiving meal, including grilled filet mignon and seared Atlantic sea scallops.

$39 for the traditional roasted turkey entrée, $49 for all other entrees, $16 for children 12 and under. For reservations, call 858-792-0476.

The Shores seeks to provide an alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving experience with its oceanfront dining and main courses such as toasted macadamia nut ricotta blintz and gremolata crusted butterfish.

10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. $46 for adults, $23 for children ages 6-12, $4/year for children under 5. For reservations, call 866-644-2630.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is hosting a special Thanksgiving Day buffet, featuring a chilled seafood bar and signature house drinks in addition to their famous Mary’s Organic Turkey.

2 p.m.- 8 p.m. $60 for adults, $30 for children ages 12 and under. For reservations, call 858.964.6521.

The Hotel del Coronado will open up both its Crown Room and oceanfront Ballroom to host a luxurious Thanksgiving buffet, complete with live entertainment.

2 p.m. – 6 p.m. $98.50 for adults and $40 for children. For reservations, visit hoteldel.com.

La Costa Resort will transform its Poinsettia Ballroom into a lavish Thanksgiving dining experience, featuring a variety of smoked fish, gourmet salads, tapas, and chef specials.

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. $68 for adults, $28 for children ages 6-16, children 5 and under free. For reservations, call 800-854-5000.

Mimi’s Cafe offers a classic Thanksgiving menu featuring roasted turkey and traditional sides. Guests can choose to dine in or take their orders to go.

8 a.m. to 8 p.m., $16.99 for adults, $8.99 for children ages 12 and under, $99.99 for a feast to-go; serves 6-8 people. To order online or find your local restaurant, visit mimiscafe.com.

Bertrand at Mr. A’s overlooks a spectacular view of the San Diego skyline from it’s outdoor, wrap around balcony. For the holiday meal they are offering a choice of five main entrees, including potato crusted sea bass, roasted dietsel turkey and oven roasted Maine lobster.

12 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. $59.50 per person. For reservations, visit bertrandatmras.com.

The Marine Room is offering five main courses for the Thanksgiving holiday, including options like braised port osso bucco, black angus filet mingon, and julian pear cider brined Sonoma turkey breast.

12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Prices vary depending on dishes, main courses $36-$44. For reservations, call 866-644-2351.

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe will be featuring a three-course tasting menu created by chef Todd Allison. The options for the main course include both Thanksgiving favorites like Diestel turkey and the Inn’s famous garden crusted tenderloin. 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. $69.50 for adults and $30 for children ages 6 to 12. For reservations, call 858-381-8289 or reserve a table online.

Mille Fleurs Chef de Cuisine Martin Woesle offers his guests a unique holiday experience with his farm-to-table Thanksgiving menu. Guests can choose between ordering items a la carte or the four-course prix fixe menu, which includes items such as Duck Pate, Roasted Fennel Soup, and Oven-Roasted Diestel Turkey. 1:30 -7 p.m. $65 per guest. Reservations can be made online at www.millefleurs.com or by calling 858-756-3085.

Bali Hai Restaurant is giving this Thanksgiving season a Polynesian twist. Featured entrée dishes include Kalua Braised Turkey Dark Meat, Salmon with a Soy Maple Glaze and Macadamia Nut stuffing with Chinese Sausage. 11:00 a.m. -7 p.m. $39 for adults and $16 for children ages 6 to12. For reservations, call 619-222-1181.

Tom Ham’s Lighthouse brings its fresh seafood to the Thanksgiving table with entrees including Maine lobster claws, Oysters on the Half Shell, and salmon covered in a herb and chipotle citrus glaze. 11:00a.m. -7 p.m. $42 for adults and $18 for children ages 6 to12. Children under 5 are free. For reservations, call 619-291-9110.

Kitchen 1540 at L’auberge Del Mar will feature its signature modern American style cooking with a three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving menu. Guests have the option to choose between four starters, which include beef tartare and squash gnocchi, as well as four entrée options, including duck breast and black cod. 12 -8 p.m. $70 for adults and $34 for children under 12. For reservations, call 858-793-6460.

Carlsbad Beach Bistro at the Hilton Garden Inn will be hosting a traditional three-course Thanksgiving menu with a starter of roasted butternut squash, entrée of roasted turkey with sourdough bread stuffing, and pumpkin pie for dessert. 12. -10 p.m. $26.95 for adults and $14.95 for children ages 6 to12. Children under age 5 are free. For reservations, call 760-476-0800.

Chandler’s at Hilton Carlsbad offers both a classic roasted turkey and the more non-traditional selections of blue cheese-crusted beef tenderloin or crab-crusted sea bass For those who wish to enjoy a gourmet Thanksgiving at their own dining table, Chandler’s offers a to go package priced at $250 designed to serve 16 people.11a.m. -7:30 p.m. $52/$54 based on choice of entrée and $24 for children under age 10. Turkey-To-Go orders must be placed 72 hours in advance. To make reservations for either the restaurant or Turkey-To-Go, call 760-683-5500.

Paradise Point is transforming the Baleen dining room into a Thanksgiving haven, complete with a three-course menu and a gorgeous view overlooking Mission Bay. Menu options include brown sugar-brined turkey, lobster cannelloni, and honey mustard-glazed short rib.3 -7 p.m. $49 for adults and $20 for children. For reservations, visit www.paradisepoint.com

JRDN at Tower23 Hotel will be serving a four-course Thanksgiving meal with a California twist, courtesy of Executive Chef David Warner. Entrée options include roasted Mary’s Turkey, pan seared scallops, grilled beef tenderloin, grilled tombo, and an autumn vegetable risotto. 3 -8 p.m. Prices vary per entrée. For reservations, call 858-270-5736.

Manchester Grand Hyatt is home to two different Thanksgiving feasts this holiday season. Lael’s will feature a buffet that includes seasonal options such as Jack Daniel’s pumpkin bisque, Alaskan king crabs, and cider brine roasted turkey. 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. $64.95 for adults, $45 for seniors over 62, $25 for children ages 5 to 12, and children 5 and under are free. For reservations, call 619-358-6735. Sally’s on the Water offers guests the choice between a three or four-course meal, priced at $42 per person and $20 for wine pairings. Dinner served from 5:30 – 9:30p.m. For reservations, call 619-358-6740.

Veladora at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is hosting an elaborate buffet that includes stations such as charcuterie and cheeses, carving, cold seafood, and desserts. Guests can enjoy life music as they try the truffle honey glazed Scottish trout or chorizo and herb stuffing. 1 -7 p.m. $89 for adults, $29 for children ages 11 and under, children under 3 are free. For reservations, call 858-759-6246.

THE US GRANT will be serving holiday favorites such as roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and roasted acorn squash at their Thanksgiving buffet. To ease the stress of the holidays, guests can also enjoy complimentary valet service and live entertainment. Seatings for the buffet will be offered at 12:30p.m., 2p.m., 3:30p.m., 4:15p.m. $75 for adults,$65 for seniors, $29 for children ages 12 and under. For reservations, call 619-744-2039.

BiCE Ristorante is giving Thanksgiving an Italian twist with its carefully crafted holiday menu. This three-course menu includes options such as lacinato kale and farro salad, chicken roulade, and soft polenta. 5p.m. -9:30 p.m. $42 for adults, $21 for children ages 10 and under. For reservations, call 619-239-2423.

Brockton Villa is hosting a special Thanksgiving brunch where Executive Chef Mareyja Sisbarro will be serving specials that include bourbon pumpkin pie panckaes and a Thanksgiving eggs benedict. Restaurant favorites such as healthy breakfast steamers and Coast Toast will also be available. 8a.m. -2p.m. Prices vary. For reservations, visit www.brocktonvilla.com online.

Katsuya San Diego offers a unique Thanksgiving experience for those looking to avoid a typical turkey and gravy dinner. Featuring its full Japanese-inspired menu, guests can choose between restaurant favorites such as miso-marinated black cod, crispy rice with spicy tuna, and Wagyu Tobanyaki. For reservations, call 619-814-2000.

KELVIN at W San Diego is transforming its signature restaurant Kelvin into an elegant Thanksgiving dinner, complete with sage honey glazed turkey, grilled country ham, and pumpkin mousse tart. 11:30a.m. – 10p.m. For reservations, call 619-398-3082.

Rancho Bernardo Inn is offering a variety of Thanksgiving Day options for where to eat this Thanksgiving holiday. Guests looking for a traditional, three-course menu of roasted turkey and mashed potatoes will find it at Verdana. 12-9p.m. $38 for adults and $15 for children ages 4-14.Those looking for one more course can head to Avant, which will feature a gourmet four-course menu complete with truffle rilletes and roasted pumkin panna cotta. 2p.m -7p.m. $70 for adults and $35 for children ages 4-14. Finally, the Aragon Ballroom will feature a five-station buffet where guests can indulge in Thanksgiving favorites. 11a.m.-3p.m. $60 for adults and $25 for children ages 4-14. For reservations at any of the restaurants, call 858.675.8550.

Catering

The French Gourmet has the perfect amount of food for families big and small. With turkeys as large as 28 lbs., even the biggest of families will finish their meals feeling as stuffed as the turkeys themselves. Customers can choose menu items at individual prices or complete turkey dinners where prices vary per number of people.

Hot food orders available for pick-up between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Order online at thefrenchgourmet.com.

Elijah’s offers four different fully prepared Thanksgiving packages: turkey, beef brisket, ham, and prime rib. Each dinner serves 10 people and includes a choice of two sides and a dessert.

To place an order, call 858-455-9529. Food available for pick up or deliver.

Marie Callender’s take-home feasts start at just $99.99 and include a choice of oven roasted turkey breast or ham as well as seven sides and a pie. With several locations throughout the greater San Diego area, you won’t have to travel far to bring home your Thanksgiving meal. Orders can be placed online and all meals require 3 hours reheating time.

Turkey with a charitable element

YouBComplete Run for the Hungry is hosting both a 10K run and 5K run/walk this Thanksgiving day downtown. The race runs through the Gaslamp District and East Village. Proceeds benefit the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and Foodmobile. 10K starts at 7:10am and 5K starts at 8:15. Early registration is $35 for adults and $22 for youth.

Father Joe’s Villages Thanksgiving Day 5K is a run through Balboa Park with 100% of proceeds benefitting the homeless members of the San Diego community. The race will begin in front of the San Diego Museum of Man. Race begins at 7:45am

Mama’s Kitchen Pie in the Sky Fundraiser happens every year at Thanksgiving. The pies are made by local San Diego chefs and bakers and the money goes toward providing more than 375,000 meals to people affected by HIV/AIDS and cancer. (P.S. San Diego Magazine wants to help them reach their 5,000-pie goal. Buy a pie for $20 or $25. Order online at mamaspies.org and select San Diego Magazine as the seller.)

SD Thanksgiving Guide 2013

Food & Drink NOVEMBER 1, 2013

SD Thanksgiving Guide 2012

Turkeys, buffets, catering, and more

By Katelyn Montero

Buffets, tasting menus, and prix fixe meals

Marina Kitchen offers a modern twist on Thanksgiving classics and American comfort food with its favorites like roasted butternut squash soup and brioche stuffing.

1:30-7 p.m. $48 for adults and $12.99 for children 12 and under. For reservations, call 619-699-8222.

The Grand Del Mar is home to two different fine dining experiences for the Thanksgiving Holidays. Amaya will feature a three-course tasting menu from 12:30-8 p.m. $78 for adults, $115 with wine pairings and $35 for children ages 6-12. Addison features a Thanksgiving-inspired seven-course menu from 3-8 p.m. $185 per person and $295 with wine pairings. For reservations to either restaurant, call 858-314-1996.