As Thanksgiving Day approaches, residents of Virginia Beach, VA, face a familiar dilemma: cook a full meal, or enjoy a feast prepared by local restaurants? This holiday brings many opportunities to celebrate without stress — and several local establishments offer delicious dining and takeout options tailored for the occasion.
For families who want to gather at the table without doing all the cooking, restaurants across Virginia Beach present a variety of Thanksgiving offerings — from elegant buffet spreads by the water to hearty to-go packages. Meanwhile, some community groups and non-profits also host meals to support neighbors who may struggle during the season.
Planning ahead is key. Whether you’re reserving a table for a sit-down dinner or placing a to-go order, early booking helps ensure you get the Thanksgiving experience you want. Here’s a look at what local restaurants and organizations in Virginia Beach are offering for Thanksgiving Day 2025, and how residents can secure their spots or help out in the community.
Elegant Holiday Dining With a View
One standout for sit-down dining is the Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront, where “Thanksgiving Buffet by the Bay” is scheduled for November 27, 2025. This coastal‑style buffet includes carved turkey with gravy, sweet potato casserole, and green bean casserole — alongside elevated dishes like oysters on the half shell, short rib au jus, and smoked salmon. Dessert options range from pumpkin pie to spiced bread pudding. The waterfront setting makes it a memorable place to celebrate with friends or family.
Closer to the oceanfront, The Cavalier Resort offers several refined dining venues for the holiday. According to its events brochure, guests may reserve the Crystal Ballroom for a grand buffet or choose a multi-course menu at Becca, the Hunt Room, or Orion’s Roof. Each of these restaurants at the Cavalier blends seasonal tradition with upscale ambiance.
Italian-Style Thanksgiving at Bravo
For a blend of Italian fare and traditional holiday flavors, Bravo! Italian Kitchen in Virginia Beach offers a Thanksgiving Feast that truly caters to everyone. Their Thanksgiving Day menu includes sliced white turkey, homestyle gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, sausage stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Guests can choose to dine in on November 27 or take home a “Thanksgiving Feast To Go” for pickup or delivery. Bravo’s family-style package is designed to serve multiple people and is perfect for a stress-free holiday meal shared with loved ones.
Take‑Home Feasts Made Easy
If cooking isn’t on the agenda this year, Tides Coastal Kitchen (also part of Delta Hotels) offers a Thanksgiving To-Go package. Their four-person turkey dinner comes packed with classic sides, all priced at $139 plus tax. Orders must be placed by November 19, 2025, and pickup is available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. This is a great way for families to enjoy quality restaurant fare in the comfort of their own home.
Another elegant option for takeaway comes from Mermaid Winery, which provides a three-course Thanksgiving package to-go. Their family-style meal for four includes lobster‑pumpkin bisque, turkey roulade, duck‑mushroom stuffing, and desserts like pumpkin cheesecake. Orders for 2025 should be placed in advance to ensure your Thanksgiving meal is secured.
Supporting the Community Through Shared Meals
While many residents focus on festive dining, local organizations also step in to support community members in need. According to recent sources, food pantries operate across Virginia Beach, VA, including at New Jerusalem COGIC (118 Bishop Thoroughgood Road) and Good Shepherd Lutheran (Laskin Road). These groups may serve meals or distribute food around Thanksgiving, though specifics for 2025 may change — it’s wise to contact them in advance to confirm plans.
How to Lock in Your Plans
Because holiday dining and to-go options tend to fill up quickly, it’s wise for Virginia Beach, VA, residents to reserve early. Restaurants like Bravo! and the Delta Waterfront recommend booking seats or ordering as soon as possible. Bravo’s Thanksgiving table reservations and to-go orders can be managed through their site. For the buffet at Delta Hotels, seats are available via OpenTable.
When placing a to-go order, keep in mind deadlines: Tides Coastal Kitchen requires orders by November 19 for pickup on Thanksgiving Day. Ordering early ensures not only availability but also helps the kitchen prepare correctly and avoid last-minute issues.
Why This Thanksgiving Can Be Different (and Easier)
Choosing a restaurant for Thanksgiving offers more than convenience — it’s a way to make the holiday feel special without exhausting yourself in the kitchen. In Virginia Beach, VA, you can combine traditional dishes, local flair, and even water views, depending on where you go.
For those who want to give back, local food pantries and community groups provide meaningful ways to support neighbors who might struggle to put together a holiday meal. And for families who want to relax and enjoy good food, the variety of to-go and dine-in offerings makes it easier than ever.
With thoughtful planning and early reservations, this Thanksgiving Day can become less stressful and more memorable — whether you’re gathering by the bay, enjoying an Italian-style dinner, or simply picking up a to-go feast to heat at home.
Sources: allevents.in, Barbara A. Morrison’s Facebook Post, mermaidwinery.com, tidescoastalkitchen.com, bravoitalian.com, cloudfront.net, tidescoastalkitchen.com
Header Image Source: pexels.com
