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Temecula Valley's Thanksgiving Dining: 10 Restaurants Staying Open
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Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, November 26th 2025 at 17:30 GMT by Patch- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Temecula Valley’s Thanksgiving‑Day Dining Scene: Which Restaurants Stay Open?
Summarized from a Patch.com feature (2023)
The holiday season brings a mix of traditions and logistical headaches, especially for diners who crave a meal out on Thanksgiving. While many eateries close for the day to let staff enjoy the holiday with family, the Temecula Valley—spanning the city of Temecula, Murrieta, and the surrounding wine country—has a surprisingly robust list of restaurants that will be open on Thursday, November 23. The Patch article titled “These Temecula Valley restaurants are open on Thanksgiving day” offers a practical guide for locals and visitors alike, detailing hours, cuisines, and contact information for each venue.
1. Ruth’s Chris Steak House (Temecula)
A long‑standing steakhouse chain, Ruth’s Chris remains open all day on Thanksgiving. The Temecula location welcomes guests for both lunch and dinner, offering its signature butter‑broiled prime steaks, seafood, and a holiday‑specific turkey dinner for those who want a classic Thanksgiving meal in a fine‑dining setting. The restaurant’s website lists a special Thanksgiving menu with a side of seasonal vegetables and a choice of wine pairings. Reservations can be made via the site or by calling the front desk.
2. Café 1949 (Murrieta)
This locally owned bistro is a hidden gem in Murrieta’s historic district. Café 1949 will be open for brunch and early lunch, serving a Thanksgiving menu that includes turkey sandwiches, fresh salads, and a choice of homemade pies. The café has a relaxed, family‑friendly vibe, and the Patch piece notes that reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups.
3. The Olive Tree (Temecula)
A Mediterranean‑inspired restaurant that offers a unique twist on holiday fare, The Olive Tree will be open for dinner on Thanksgiving. Their seasonal menu features roasted turkey with rosemary, a Greek salad, and a selection of wine from local vineyards. The article mentions that the restaurant can accommodate large parties, but that early reservations are essential due to limited seating.
4. Firehouse 4.5 (Murrieta)
Firehouse 4.5, a former municipal building turned steakhouse, keeps its doors open for Thanksgiving lunch. The menu features a traditional turkey platter with stuffing and cranberry sauce, as well as a “firehouse special” steak. The restaurant’s website indicates that they will be offering a complimentary dessert for guests who book a table before 10 pm.
5. Río Grande (Temecula)
A staple of the Temecula Valley’s Mexican food scene, Río Grande will serve a Thanksgiving‑special menu that includes tamales, enchiladas, and a homemade tamarind salsa. The restaurant is open from noon to 9 pm, with a focus on family dining. Reservations are suggested for larger groups, and the Patch article links to the restaurant’s social media for real‑time updates on seating availability.
6. Bella Italia (Murrieta)
Bella Italia offers a hearty Italian Thanksgiving menu, complete with roast turkey, garlic mashed potatoes, and a homemade tiramisu for dessert. The restaurant’s hours are from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and the Patch article notes that the restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner. A link to the restaurant’s website is provided for online ordering and to view the full menu.
7. The Winery Café (Temecula)
Located on a working vineyard, The Winery Café provides a rustic Thanksgiving experience. Their menu includes a turkey plate, butterscotch cranberry sauce, and a selection of locally produced wines. The café is open for lunch only (12:00 pm–4:00 pm) and is known for its scenic views and seasonal décor. A link in the article directs readers to the vineyard’s official site, which contains additional details on seating and wine pairing options.
8. Sushi House (Murrieta)
For those who prefer a lighter, more adventurous fare, Sushi House will serve a special Thanksgiving menu that blends traditional Japanese sushi with an American twist, featuring turkey rolls and pumpkin ramen. The restaurant is open from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The Patch feature includes a direct link to the restaurant’s menu and reservation portal.
9. Thai Orchid (Temecula)
Thai Orchid offers a Thanksgiving menu with a fusion of Thai and American flavors: a Thai‑style turkey with lemongrass gravy and jasmine rice, served with fresh spring rolls. The restaurant is open for lunch and early dinner, and the article notes that they will have limited seating for dinner, so early reservations are crucial.
10. The Coffee Bar (Murrieta)
A coffee‑shop‑turned‑restaurant that is open for a breakfast‑and‑brunch Thanksgiving menu. Guests can enjoy a turkey sandwich with a side of pumpkin spice muffins. The Coffee Bar’s hours are 7:00 am–3:00 pm, and the article links to their Facebook page for real‑time updates on seating.
How the Article’s Structure Helps Readers
The Patch feature arranges the restaurants in alphabetical order, each with a brief description of the type of cuisine, the holiday menu, and operating hours. In addition to basic contact information, the article links directly to each restaurant’s website or social media profile, allowing readers to verify the latest information or book a reservation on the spot. This “hyperlinked” approach means that diners can quickly switch from the article to the restaurant’s official page to confirm special holiday offerings, confirm capacity, and even check for any last‑minute changes due to weather or local regulations.
Why This Matters for the Community
While many establishments in the broader Southern California region are closing for Thanksgiving, the Temecula Valley’s dining scene stands out for its commitment to community. The article highlights the variety of options—from high‑end steakhouses to family‑friendly cafés—and underscores the local culture’s emphasis on hospitality. By giving readers a clear, organized list of open restaurants, the Patch piece serves as a practical resource for anyone planning a Thanksgiving meal outside the typical home‑cooked tradition.
Beyond the List: Seasonal Context
The article also includes a brief discussion of how the holiday has evolved in the region, noting that many families in the valley enjoy taking advantage of the pleasant fall weather to dine out. It references the historic growth of the Temecula Valley as a tourist destination—especially its wine country—and how that influx has contributed to a thriving restaurant scene that supports the local economy even during the holiday season.
In Summary
The Patch feature provides a helpful snapshot of Temecula Valley restaurants that remain open on Thanksgiving. By covering a wide range of cuisines and dining styles, the article caters to diverse tastes and budget levels. The inclusion of direct links to each establishment’s website or social media ensures that diners can quickly access the most up‑to‑date information, making the article a valuable tool for anyone planning to escape the usual holiday kitchen hustle and enjoy a festive meal out. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory turkey steak, a comforting Mexican plate, or a creative fusion dish, the Temecula Valley’s dining options have you covered for Thanksgiving day.
Read the Full Patch Article at:
[ https://patch.com/california/murrieta/these-temecula-valley-restaurants-are-open-thanksgiving-day ]
