These Point Pleasant Restaurants Are Open Thanksgiving, But Get Your Reservation In

Many independent restaurants in the area will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 26, for Thanksgiving. But some local and regional favorites are taking reservations, giving Point Pleasant residents a chance to gather around a different table this year.

The appeal isn’t hard to understand. Hosting Thanksgiving can mean days of shopping and preparation for a meal that disappears remarkably fast. Dining out leaves more time for the visiting, with no refrigerator puzzle to solve afterward.

It also makes room for a holiday that doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people are celebrating with a partner or a few friends. Others are meeting family halfway, traveling over the holiday or simply ready to retire the roasting pan for a year.

Around Point Pleasant, options include:

• The Ark Pub and Eatery, 201 Sea Ave., Route 35 North, Point Pleasant Beach, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Kegs and Eggs
• The Grenville Hotel and Restaurant, Route 35, Bay Head, buffet dinner, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Reservations required, call 732-892-3100.
• The Wharfside, 101 Channel Drive, Point Pleasant Beach, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Reservations, call 732-892-9100
• Rainbow Diner, 849 Route 70, Brick. 6 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Houlihan's, Route 70, Brick, Noon-7 p.m.
• Villa Vittoria, 2700 Hooper Ave., Brick, reservations required, available at noon, last reservations 6:30 p.m.
• Water Street Bar & Grill, 4 Robbins Parkway, Toms River, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
• Four Winds Restaurant, Thanksgiving takeout orders accepted for pickup at the restaurant, 1316 Jefferson Ave., Manasquan; 732-223-3010. Order online.
• Scarborough Fair Restaurant, Thanksgiving dinner, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., (waiting list only) 1414 Meetinghouse Road, Sea Girt, 732-223-6658.

National chains offer additional choices, from multicourse steakhouse dinners to family restaurants serving turkey and traditional sides. Some also offer their regular menus, welcome news for anyone whose Thanksgiving wishes run more toward a ribeye than a drumstick.

Here’s what we know about national chains that are open and their advertised Thanksgiving specials:

Family Restaurants And Diners

Denny’s: Holiday menu includes turkey breast with stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, two sides and dinner bread.

IHOP: Open Thanksgiving; hours vary by location.

Pizza And Fast Food

Pizza Hut: Thanksgiving openings and hours vary by restaurant.

Wendy’s: The chain says many locations open on holidays, including Thanksgiving. Hours vary by restaurant.

McDonald’s: Thanksgiving availability depends on the local operator.

Burger King: Participating restaurants may open Thanksgiving, with hours varying by franchise. Check the selected restaurant in the app or call ahead.