Athens - are you ready for Turkey Day? Need a pie to take to the family dinner? Pre-order one and get that homemade flavor without the stress of baking! Worried you won't get all the sides done in time? You can pre-order those too! Never been gifted in the kitchen? Thats ok! Come and have the entire meal cooked for you! Whether you need a little help with desserts, sides, or the whole meal, we've got you covered! Check out these local restaurants for Thanksgiving meals and deals!
Places to eat on Thanksgiving Day
Weaver D's
Weaver D's is an iconic soul food restaurant in Athens, Georgia, famous for its slogan "Automatic for the People," which inspired the title of an R.E.M. album. Known for serving up classic Southern comfort food like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread, it's a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. The cozy, no-frills atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Athens culture. Come out to Weaver D's on Thanksgiving Day to celebrate with the Athens community! Festivities start with gospel music at 12 p.m. and food from 2-5 p.m. (or until food runs out). Call (706) 353-7797 for more info.
Chuck's Fish
Leave the cooking and cleaning at home this Thanksgiving and come spend the holiday at Chuck's Fish! Chuck's Fish in downtown Athens is a popular spot known for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and sushi. With a laid-back yet upscale vibe, the restaurant's regular menu offers a diverse selection of everything from expertly prepared sushi rolls to wood-fired pizzas and Southern-inspired dishes. For Thanksgiving, they will host Five Athens' yearly Thanksgiving Charity Feast!
El Paso
El Paso is a lively Mexican restaurant in Athens, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a menu full of authentic Mexican favorites. From sizzling fajitas and street-style tacos to hearty enchiladas and refreshing margaritas, it’s a go-to spot for anyone craving bold flavors and generous portions. With friendly service and a colorful, welcoming interior, El Paso provides a fun dining experience perfect for family meals, casual lunches, or festive nights out with friends. El Paso is offering its second annual free Thanksgiving Dinner at its Athens location. Stay updated on their social for details about date and time. Come out and connect with the Athens community and enjoy a delicious meal!
Places to Pre Order
Independent Baking Co.
Independent Baking Co. is a charming neighborhood bakery in Athens, known for its artisanal bread and pastries made fresh daily. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques, they offer everything from perfectly crusty baguettes to flaky croissants and seasonal treats. The cozy, inviting space is a favorite among locals for morning coffee, a quick snack, or picking up a loaf of bread to take home. Independent Baking Co. is a true gem for those who appreciate handcrafted, delicious baked goods. This year let Independent Baking Co. make what it makes best... mouthwatering pies! Place your order in person at the bakery, over the phone at (706) 850-3550, or online at independentbaking.com. Pre-orders can be placed until Friday, November 22nd and all pies can be picked up at the bakery on Wednesday, November 27th. Last year they offered Maple Pecan Pie and Sweet Potato Pie, stay tuned to see what flavors they'll have this year!
Donderos' Kitchen
Dondero's Kitchen is a cozy, family-owned café and catering business in Athens, offering a unique blend of globally inspired dishes with a homestyle touch. Located in a historic house, it provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual dining or grabbing takeout. The menu features a variety of fresh, flavorful options, from soups and sandwiches to international entrees and baked goods. Donderos' Kitchen will help with Thanksgiving prep this year by offering pre-order pies, dressing (both conventional and gluten-free), and cranberry sauce. Stop in, call (706) 354-8688, or email contact@donderoskitchen.com to place your order. The last date to pre-order is Friday, November 22nd. Food pickup will be available on Tuesday, November 26th from 12-3 pm and Wednesday, November 27th from 9 am-3 pm.
Marti's At Midday
Marti's at Midday is famous for its homemade sandwiches, salads, and Southern-inspired sides. With a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect place for a casual lunch Their generous portions and famous chicken salad make it a local favorite, and the charming outdoor patio adds to the laid-back dining experience. Marti's is the go-to spot for anyone craving wholesome, flavorful food made with love. Find delicious Thanksgiving sides at Marti's at Midday this season. Order mac & cheese, cornbread dressing, sweet potatoes with brown sugar & pecan crust, yeast rolls, and so much more! Browse the numerous options, email catering@martisatmidday.com, or call (706)201-1889. They'll be posting details about order pick-ups on their socials soon.
Lindsey's Culinary Market
Lindsey’s Culinary Market is a beloved spot in Athens. They're nestled just behind 1000 Faces Coffee. Lindsey's offers gourmet prepared meals, catering services, and a cozy café experience. Known for using fresh, local ingredients, Lindsey’s serves up a range of delicious, homestyle dishes with an upscale twist—from hearty salads and sandwiches to flavorful entrees and baked goods. The inviting atmosphere and attention to detail make it a perfect stop for a quick lunch or grabbing a chef-prepared meal to go. Lindsey’s Culinary Market is a go-to for both casual dining and elegant catering needs. Pre-order their sides this Thanksgiving! This year's menu will be posted on their Instagram in early November. Monday, November 25th will be the last day to make a pre-order. Pick-up day will be Wednesday, November 27th but they're flexible, call the Farm Fresh restaurant at (706) 353-0558 to order or make any special requests.
Update: Saucehouse
This delicious local BBQ restaurant will be offering catering this Thanksgiving! The menu will include carved smoked turkey, honey spiral sliced ham, mashed potatoes, mac-n-cheese, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, dressing, rolls, peach cobbler, bread pudding, banana pudding, iced ice, and lemonade. You can order items a la carte or whole catering packages. Call (888)-978-7948 or email catering@saucehouse.com to place your order today! See their Instagram for pricing and more details.
As Thanksgiving approaches, take the stress out of your holiday prep by letting these local Athens spots handle the cooking! Whether you’re in need of a pie, a few sides, or a full feast, the restaurants around town have your back. With fresh, homemade flavors and easy pre-order options, you can focus on enjoying the day with family and friends rather than worrying about the kitchen. So, this Turkey Day, skip the hassle and support local businesses while treating yourself to a delicious, stress-free meal!
