Thanksgiving week always brings a unique rhythm: slower moments, family-centered days, and meals that feel like traditions in the making. This year looked a little different for us as we continue living with the in-laws while house-hunting. It felt bittersweet not having a home base to host our usual holiday chaos, but the gratitude was still overflowing. From bagels and diners to a fully smoked Thanksgiving feast and a Sunday baked ziti, this week was full of flavor and family.
A Calm Start Before the Holiday Rush
On Monday I was recovering from the weekend of great food so nothing crazy. Tuesday started with an easy lunch at JBC, always a reliable spot for something quick and satisfying.
Later in the day, we met the girls at Geronimo in Fairfield — our longtime happy-hour go-to for margaritas, tacos, and catching up before the holiday chaos. We were celebrating and toasting some news that I will share in a few weeks.
J Bagel & Cafe Trumbull CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Geronimo Tequila Bar and Grill Fairfield CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanksgiving Eve Done Right
On Wednesday, we headed to the Southport Diner for a late breakfast/early lunch — a pre-holiday ritual that somehow always feels comforting. After refueling, it was time for the final grocery run to prepare for the big feast. Marshmallows? Check. Rosemary? Check. Inevitably forgetting something and going back later? Also check.
Southport Diner Southport CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanksgiving Day: A Feast Wrapped in Gratitude
This year’s Thanksgiving felt emotional and grounding. We don’t have a house of our own at the moment, and the kids don’t have “their spot” to crash during the holidays, which made things feel a little off. But the blessing of being together — safe, healthy, and hopeful — outweighed everything else.
And of course, the food took center stage.
Drinks
- Cabernet – Juggernaut from Hillside
- Chianti – Chianti Classico from Volpaia
- Sauvignon Blanc – Aveta from Stag’s Leap Cellars
- Whiskey – American Metal Whiskey, Woodford Reserve, Basil Hayden, Bulleit, Jeffersons
- Varied Mixed Drinks (Aperol Spritz’s, Old Fashioned, Negroni)
- Beer – Michelob Ultra
- Seltzers – High Noons
Starters
- Italian meats and cheeses
- My homemade “copycat Carbone mozzarella” dressed simply with olive oil and salt
- Fresh Italian bread
Main Course
Pellet-Smoked Organic Turkey Breast
24 hours of dry brining in various seasonings which are located in my Pellet Smoked Turkey recipe. Then moved the turkey to a preheated pellet grill. The turkey smoked beautifully on the pellet grill, and throughout the cook I basted it with a glossy blend of maple syrup, melted butter, and whiskey, giving it incredible color and flavor.
Sides That Made the Meal
- Mashed sweet potatoes enriched with heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, brown sugar, a touch of paprika, and topped with melted marshmallows
- Mashed potatoes
- Brussels sprouts with bacon
- Gluten-free cornbread & cranberry sauce (thanks to my father-in-law)
- Gluten-free cornbread stuffing with sausage
- Crescent rolls — a non-negotiable classic
Dessert
- Whole Foods apple pie
- Several flavors of Oggi Gelato
- A lineup of Cabernet, Sauvignon Blanc, and whiskey to close out the night
The Days After: Leftovers & More Gratitude
Friday
The beauty of Thanksgiving leftovers is unmatched — turkey sandwiches, sweet potatoes reheated in the oven, stuffing crisped up in a frying pan… pure bliss.
Saturday
Our youngest daughter flew back to Florida State. Her time home always goes by too fast, but she’ll be back in just 10 days. Dinner was simple: more leftovers and a quiet night to unwind.
Sunday Comfort: Baked Ziti to End the Week
To close out the week, I made one of our family favorites: homemade baked ziti, this time using:
- Giada gluten-free ziti
- A rich, meaty sauce made with ground bison and hot Italian sausage
Slow-simmered sauce, bubbling pasta, and melted cheese — the perfect warm ending to a full and meaningful Thanksgiving week.