Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude—and for many, letting someone else handle the cooking. If you’re spending the holiday in Tuscaloosa or hosting family from out of town, several local restaurants are ready to welcome you with open doors and delicious Thanksgiving offerings. Whether you’re craving a classic holiday buffet, a global twist on traditional favorites, or simply a place to enjoy a comforting meal together, here’s your guide to restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025.
🌟 Chuck’s Fish
Open: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM (lunch) One of Tuscaloosa’s most heartfelt holiday traditions returns again this year as Chuck’s Fish opens its doors for the Annual Thanksgiving Feast, a give-what-you-can community meal that embodies the true spirit of the season. This traditional Southern holiday meal is completely free of charge and open to the public, welcoming anyone who wishes to share a warm, home-style Thanksgiving experience. Held at Chuck’s Fish in downtown Tuscaloosa, the feast offers a generous, welcoming space for neighbors, families, and visitors to come together in gratitude.
🌟 Legends at Hotel Capstone
Open: 6:30–10:00 AM (breakfast) and 11:00 AM–2:00 PM (Thanksgiving Buffet — reservations only)
Legends at Hotel Capstone offers one of Tuscaloosa’s most anticipated Thanksgiving dining experiences. Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving Buffet in an elegant setting—perfect for families, hotel guests, and locals seeking a stress-free holiday meal. Reservations are required, so plan ahead for this popular feast.
🌟 Sitar of India
Open: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM (Special Thanksgiving All-You-Can-Eat Buffet) and 5:00–9:30 PM (Traditional dinner service)
Looking for a unique Thanksgiving experience? Sitar of India serves a special Thanksgiving All-You-Can-Eat Buffet featuring their signature tandoori oven turkey, a variety of flavorful sides, vegetables, naan, salads, desserts, and chai tea. This globally inspired celebration of the holiday is a favorite for those wanting something different—but still festive.
🌟 Forte by The Alamite
Open: 2:00–8:00 PM
Forte will be serving a specialty Thanksgiving dinner menu styled with an elevated Southern-European flair. Held in the chic, boutique hotel setting of The Alamite, this is a great option for those looking for a sophisticated holiday dining experience in downtown Tuscaloosa.
🌟 Additional Holiday Meal Options (Pre-Order for Pickup)
Several restaurants will be closed on Thanksgiving Day but are offering holiday meal packages you may want to secure ahead of time:
Chicken Salad Chick (Pickup Only — CLOSED Thanksgiving Day)
Family Meal includes two large pounds of chicken salad, a large fresh side, six croissants, a gallon of tea or lemonade, and six cookies.
Hoo’s Q & Brew (Pickup Only — CLOSED Thanksgiving Day)
Offering smoked holiday meats such as turkey, ham, and turkey breast (48-hour notice required).
Taco Mama (Pickup Only — CLOSED Thanksgiving Day)
Happy Family Meal (feeds 4–6): $54
Perfect for pre- or post-holiday gatherings.
Enjoy Thanksgiving in Tuscaloosa
Whether you’re craving a buffet-style celebration, an international twist on holiday flavors, or a refined dinner experience, Tuscaloosa has a place at the table waiting for you. Be sure to plan ahead—especially where reservations or pre-orders are required—and enjoy a delicious, stress-free Thanksgiving with the people you love.
