Restaurants offering traditional Thanksgiving dinner

Hi, my husband and I will be in Venice for Thanksgiving, and I was wondering if any of the restaurants on Venice Ave or nearby offer a traditional Thanksgiving dinner? Thanks!

Venice is a wonderful place to spend Thanksgiving, and many local restaurants—especially along Venice Avenue or just a short drive away—offer traditional Thanksgiving meals each year. While menus can vary slightly from year to year, several well-known spots reliably serve turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and classic holiday desserts.

Below are restaurants that are known for offering Thanksgiving dinners in Venice and the surrounding area. These places typically require reservations because the holiday fills up quickly, so it’s always best to call ahead once you choose a favorite.

Restaurants on or near Venice Avenue that usually offer a traditional Thanksgiving dinner:

  • Café Venice Restaurant & Bar (Downtown Venice Ave) – Frequently offers a special Thanksgiving menu with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin desserts. Elegant but cozy atmosphere right on Venice Avenue.
  • Fins at Sharky’s (near Venice Beach) – While known for seafood, Fins typically has a holiday prix-fixe option that includes turkey and traditional sides along with their standard menu.
  • Sharky’s on the Pier – Very popular choice for a holiday meal with a view. They often serve a Thanksgiving special plate that includes classic turkey dinner options.
  • Blu' Island Bistro (near Venice Ave) – Sometimes offers a holiday special for Thanksgiving brunch or an early dinner with traditional comfort foods.

Other nearby restaurants offering Thanksgiving meals:

  • Crown & Anchor British Pub (downtown Venice) – Despite being a pub, they typically do a Thanksgiving special featuring turkey, stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, and pie.
  • Hotel Venezia / Venezia Restaurant – Known for an extensive Thanksgiving buffet with turkey and all the fixings, plus additional entrée options.
  • Bonefish Grill (US-41) – Usually runs a Thanksgiving special featuring turkey along with their regular seafood dishes, good for couples wanting a quieter holiday meal.
  • Der Dutchman (Sarasota, about 20 minutes away) – Famous for their homestyle Thanksgiving buffet. A top choice for those who want a big traditional spread with lots of sides and desserts.

If you're staying close to Venice Avenue, you’ll find that Café Venice, Crown & Anchor, and several small bistros are the most convenient walkable options. If you don’t mind a short drive, Sharky’s and Fins offer a beautiful waterfront setting for a holiday meal.

Because Thanksgiving dining is very popular in the Venice area—especially with seasonal residents and visitors—reservations are strongly recommended, sometimes even several weeks in advance. Most restaurants begin posting their holiday menus in late October or early November.

You and your husband will have no trouble finding a warm, traditional Thanksgiving dinner in Venice. Whether you prefer a charming downtown meal or a coastal holiday dinner by the Gulf, you’ll be able to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving experience.


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