Slaving over a hot stove for hours does not sound so great to a lot of people especially if it is for the entire family, so here are some ideas to keep time in the kitchen at a minimum, with and without the turkey.

Ready to Go Thanksgiving Dinner from Gastronaut

A lot of jobs these days require working on Thanksgiving. Gastronaut chefs Nate and Mirit will create the meal to lessening the stress. The ordering deadline is one minute before midnight on November 14^th. Enjoy a Willie Bird turkey, a selection of sides, such as their winter squash stuffed with quinoa, lentils and kale, and delectable desserts from Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous. Meals are for pick up on November 23rd.

Vegan Thanksgiving at Café Gratitude

At Café Gratitude, even the name of the restaurant exudes the spirit of Thanksgiving. At Noon to 3pm on Thanksgiving Day, attend the free raw and vegan feast at the San Francisco, Berkeley and San Rafael cafés. Menu items include a butternut squash tamale with a persimmon salad, perfect flavors for autumn. The meal is served by people in the community, and the public can take part. Café Gratitude is accepting volunteers for the event – bussers, dishwashers, etc.

Anti-Turkey Thanksgiving at Mercury Lounge

Thanksgiving arrives early on November 20th with Chef Dom Ainza of Mercury Lounge and two surprise chefs preparing a six-course all pork “nose-to-tail” feast. While the menu is kept secret, there are rumors circulating about a porkified dessert.  More information and tickets.

All the Flavor But Without the Work

Several spots around the City are offering Thanksgiving-themed sandwiches. One favorite is Ike’s Place “Going Home for Thanksgiving.” This bad boy is only available during the holiday season and includes sliced oven-roasted turkey breast, cranberry sauce, sriracha and havarti. Warning, this can get messy.

An Only-Desserts Thanksgiving

There are plenty of options for those who want to skip the high-calorie meal and go straight for dessert. The pumpkin crème fraiche tart from La Boulange can be pre-ordered for a family dinner or a dessert buffet. The spiced pumpkin is luscious and the ribbon of crème fraiche lends creaminess and tang. Last day to pre-order is 11/20. Though this dessert is available year-round, Chow’s Ginger Cake and Pumpkin Ice Cream still conjures Thanksgiving memories even when eaten in March.