Best Places to Dine Out for Thanksgiving in Olympia (2025)

Thanksgiving is about more than turkey; it’s about community, gratitude, and enjoying time with loved ones. If you’re in the Olympia, WA, area and want to skip the cooking this year, you’re in luck. Olympia has several excellent dining options that are open for Thanksgiving, offering everything from gourmet three‑course meals to comforting buffets. Here’s a curated list of the best places to dine out for Thanksgiving in Olympia in 2025 recommended by your friends at Titus‑Will Hyundai.

1. Budd Bay Café – Waterfront Buffet Tradition

Located at 525 Columbia Street NW, Budd Bay Café offers one of the most beloved Thanksgiving traditions in Olympia: a warm, hearty Thanksgiving dinner buffet.

• Pricing & hours: As of their 2025 announcement, adult tickets are ~$49.99, seniors $45.99, children (ages 6–12) $29.99, toddlers $10.99.

• What you’ll find: A mix of Thanksgiving classics, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, plus Budd Bay’s signature seafood dishes (like smoked salmon mousse).

• Reservation tip: It’s highly recommended to call ahead at (360) 357‑6963 to reserve your spot.

• Why go: The waterfront location provides a cozy, local feel; perfect for families or couples who want a no-fuss, festive meal.

2. Olympia Oyster House – Seasonal Menu & Local Flavor

For a Thanksgiving with a Pacific Northwest twist, look no further than the Olympia Oyster House at 320 4th Avenue W. According to ThurstonTalk, they will be open 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

• Menu highlights: Their seasonal Thanksgiving menu often includes classic turkey and gravy, glazed ham, prime rib, and even glazed salmon along with traditional sides and holiday desserts.

• Drinks: Cocktails and mocktails complement the meal, and of course, you can sample local oysters.

• Seating: They accept both reservations and walk-ins, but making a reservation early is wise given the holiday demand.

• Why go: If you want a refined, elegant Thanksgiving experience in a seafood‑focused, locally loved restaurant, the Oyster House is a top pick.

3. River Water Bar & Grille at Red Wind Casino

Want to combine your Thanksgiving meal with a little getaway? The River Water Bar & Grille, part of the Nisqually Red Wind Casino (address: 12819 Yelm Hwy SE), offers a three‑course Thanksgiving dinner special.

• When: Their Thanksgiving dinner special runs from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m..

• Menu: The menu typically features a starter (salad or soup), a choice of herb‑citrus turkey breast or ham, plus traditional sides (stuffing, cranberry relish, green beans, mashed potatoes), and dessert (e.g., pumpkin cheesecake).

• Accessibility: The casino is open 24 hours during Thanksgiving weekend.

• Why go: This is a great option for those looking for a special night out, perhaps with other casino or entertainment plans. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, and it’s perfect for a more “destination” Thanksgiving meal.

5. Smoked Turkey To-Go Options (Flaming Pig BBQ & More)

If you want to enjoy Thanksgiving at home without doing all the cooking, there are local spots that do pre‑order takeout dinners.

• Flaming Pig BBQ (Tumwater) offers smoked turkey meals with sides like herbed mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, sage stuffing, and personal-sized pumpkin or apple pie.

• Uptown Grill, located downtown at 514 Capitol Way S, offers a take-home Thanksgiving dinner that reheats beautifully. Their 2025 menu includes roasted turkey breast, fire‑roasted broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and a cranberry‑orange relish.

• Why go: Takeout options let you host Thanksgiving without the mess, giving you more time to spend with family while still enjoying locally crafted food.

Planning & Reservation Tips for Thanksgiving in Olympia

1. Book early. Buffets like Budd Bay and dinner specials at places like the Oyster House often sell out quickly.

2. Call ahead. Confirm hours and pricing; menus sometimes change year to year.

3. Be mindful of dietary needs. If someone in your group has allergies or dietary restrictions, Park Side Café’s vegan option is ideal.

4. Combine dining with a stay or outing. Planning to stay local? Consider the casino dinner and then enjoy other amenities at Red Wind.

5. Takeout is your friend. For a stress-free holiday at home, local restaurants like Flaming Pig BBQ and Uptown Grill provide high-quality, pre-cooked options.

Why Titus‑Will Hyundai Recommends Dining Locally

At Titus‑Will Hyundai, we believe in more than just getting you on the road — we believe in community. Olympia is our home, and these locally owned restaurants are the heart of the area. By choosing to dine out for Thanksgiving, you’re supporting local businesses, giving your kitchen a break, and making the holiday more about connection and less about cleanup.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Titus‑Will Hyundai!

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »