If you’re looking for an alternative to turkey and gravy and want to avoid a major mess in the kitchen, there are some Valley restaurants willing to do the work for you, staying open on Thanksgiving! (All require a reservation.)
While these restaurants serve gluten-free options, it is advised to call ahead and ask about your specific needs.
Prime rib dinner at Rustler’s Rooste
Phoenix
Join the western-themed fun atop South Mountain for a unique take on Thanksgiving: a prime rib dinner. The 8-oz. Deputy Cut is $22.95 and the largest cut, The Judge (24 ounces), goes for $34.95. The prime rib is served with gluten-free, holiday-friendly sides: corn on the cob and candied yams. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Don’t forget to go down the slide to enter the dining room!
Latin flare at The Mission
Scottsdale (two locations)
A modern twist on Latin cuisine in a beautiful setting is what you’ll find at The Mission. At press time, the restaurant was still working on its Thanksgiving menu but with the majority of the restaurant’s ingredients made from corn, you can bet they will have gluten-free options or be able to make modifications easily. Reservations start at 4 p.m. (Pictured at top of page.)
Modern Indian cuisine at Feringhee
Chandler
This new Indian food spot in Chandler serves up ancient flavors with a vibrant and modern twist. Many of the dishes are gluten free, listed as such on the menu. Choose from small plates like the Tandoori shrimp or bigger entrees like the Old Delhi butter chicken. Reservations start at 5 p.m.
Fresh sushi at RA
Scottsdale (two locations)
Trade turkey for tuna at one of the Scottsdale locations of RA Sushi that will be open Thanksgiving Day, starting at 3 p.m. RA’s gluten-sensitive menu has a variety of salads, poke, sushi, nigiri and even gluten-free dessert!
Classic steak dinner at Mastro’s City Hall
Scottsdale
It’s easy to find the Thanksgiving spirit here, with an abundance of shared sides for the table. And there’s nothing quite like a good quality steak or piece of fish to celebrate a special occasion. Mastro’s has an extensive gluten-free menu, certain to please everyone at the table.
Ali Dugaw has been on the hunt for the best gluten-free spots for the past decade. She currently lives in Phoenix and works in public relations. Follow her gluten-free adventures at @GlutenFreeTravelGirl and www.facebook.com/GlutenFreeTravelGirl.