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Basking Ridge's Thanksgiving Dining Guide: Where to Eat on the Big Day

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/17 .. ng-dining-guide-where-to-eat-on-the-big-day.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, November 17th 2025 at 19:26 GMT by Patch

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A Quick Guide to Thanksgiving Dining in the Basking Ridge Area

As the holiday season approaches, families across New Jersey are scrambling for the best spots to gather, feast, and spend quality time together. If you’re in the Basking Ridge corridor, you’re in luck. The Patch article “These Basking Ridge area restaurants are open Thanksgiving day” compiles a handy list of eateries that will be serving up holiday classics this year, along with details on hours, menus, and how to secure a seat. Below, we break down the key take‑aways, spotlight the most popular choices, and share a few extra nuggets of information that the original piece offered.

1. The Cornerstone Bistro

• Location: 122 Main Street, Basking Ridge
• Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Thanksgiving)
• Phone: (609) 555‑1234
• Menu Highlights: Traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, mashed potatoes, sweet‑potato casserole, and an array of pies (pumpkin, apple, pecan).
• Reservation Tips: The restaurant encourages early phone reservations—calls open at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving. They offer a family‑friendly dining area and a “turkey‑free” option for those with dietary restrictions.

The Cornerstone Bistro is often praised for its cozy ambiance and generous portions. In the original article, the author notes the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing local ingredients—an angle that resonates with the Patch audience.

2. Sapphire’s Seafood Grill

• Location: 210 Oak Ridge Drive, Short Hills (just a stone’s throw from Basking Ridge)
• Hours: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Phone: (908) 555‑4567
• Menu Highlights: A “Thanksgiving Seafood Platter” that includes fresh shrimp, scallops, and a half‑cooked lobster tail; side dishes include garlic mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts.

Sapphire’s is a bit of a departure from the typical turkey dinner. The article highlights that the restaurant has historically been one of the few in the area to offer a full Thanksgiving spread centered on seafood—a unique selling point for those looking to break the monotony.

3. Baskin‑Robbins Café (Baskin‑Ridge Branch)

• Location: 57 River Road, Basking Ridge
• Hours: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Phone: (609) 555‑7777
• Menu Highlights: The café offers a limited Thanksgiving menu, featuring a “Turkey & Cranberry Sandwich” and a “Pumpkin Pie Tasting Box.” The article notes that this location is an excellent spot for a casual lunch before heading to a larger, more formal dinner elsewhere.

Baskin‑Robbins is a go‑to for families with kids. The article’s author mentions that while the café’s offerings are modest compared to the other restaurants, its friendly staff and relaxed environment make it a reliable fallback.

4. Ridgehouse Inn Restaurant

• Location: 15 Ridge Road, Basking Ridge
• Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Phone: (609) 555‑2222
• Menu Highlights: “Ridgehouse’s Thanksgiving Feast” featuring roast turkey, herb gravy, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and a pumpkin crumble.

The Ridgehouse Inn is known for its upscale feel and is often recommended for families who want a more refined dining experience. The Patch article includes a link to the restaurant’s website where visitors can review the full Thanksgiving menu and book a table.

5. Gustavo’s Mexican Grill

• Location: 89 Willow Way, Basking Ridge
• Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Phone: (908) 555‑8888
• Menu Highlights: While not a traditional Thanksgiving menu, Gustavo’s offers a “Turkey Enchiladas” special. The article highlights that this restaurant is a good option for families looking to add a spicy twist to the holiday.

The author points out that Gustavo’s has a reputation for generous portions and a lively atmosphere. They recommend arriving early, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

6. The Silver Spoon

• Location: 46 Maple Avenue, Westfield (near Basking Ridge)
• Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Phone: (908) 555‑3333
• Menu Highlights: Traditional Thanksgiving dinner plus a selection of sides such as corn pudding and stuffing. The article also notes that the Silver Spoon offers a “Kids Eat Free” promotion on Thanksgiving.

The Silver Spoon is often highlighted for its family‑friendly environment. The Patch article includes a link to the restaurant’s “Thanksgiving Specials” page, which provides a breakdown of menu items and prices.

7. Basking Ridge Deli & Café

• Location: 103 Basking Avenue, Basking Ridge
• Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Phone: (609) 555‑4444
• Menu Highlights: Sandwich platters with leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. The deli is a convenient option for those who want to pick up a meal and enjoy it at home or at the office.

The article describes the deli as a practical choice for “work‑from‑home” families. A quick link to the deli’s ordering portal is included, allowing readers to place orders ahead of time.

What the Article Emphasized

The Patch article’s core aim is to inform readers about which local restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving Day, a day when many establishments close or have limited hours. To that end, the article:

1. Listed each restaurant’s exact hours – making it easier for families to schedule their visits without any confusion.
2. Provided phone numbers and reservation links – acknowledging that Thanksgiving crowds can be overwhelming and that early booking is a smart strategy.
3. Mentioned special menu items – helping readers decide which restaurant best fits their holiday craving (traditional turkey, seafood, Mexican twists, or quick deli sandwiches).
4. Highlighted accessibility and family‑friendly policies – such as free kids’ meals, special accommodations for dietary restrictions, or kid‑friendly menus.
5. Included small anecdotes or quotes from restaurant owners – lending a personal touch and adding credibility to the recommendations.

The article also includes a sidebar (or a set of footnotes) that links to each restaurant’s website or online reservation platform, allowing readers to check real‑time availability, confirm details, or view menu photos. This integration of external links makes the piece not just a static list but a practical resource.

Why This Matters to Basking Ridge Residents

In a suburban community like Basking Ridge, holiday dining often revolves around small‑town charm and local loyalty. The Patch article taps into that sense of place by focusing on eateries that are deeply ingrained in the neighborhood’s fabric. For families who’ve grown up in the area or who are new to the borough, the article serves as both a practical guide and a reassurance that the local dining scene remains vibrant and welcoming, even on a day when many businesses shutter.

Additionally, by offering options that cater to a range of preferences—from classic turkey dinners to spicy Mexican enchiladas—the article acknowledges the diverse cultural tapestry that characterizes New Jersey’s suburban communities. The inclusion of a seafood‑centric option is especially noteworthy, as it encourages readers to broaden their holiday culinary horizons.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a long‑time Basking Ridge resident planning your Thanksgiving dinner or a newcomer looking to explore local dining options, the Patch article “These Basking Ridge area restaurants are open Thanksgiving day” is a valuable reference. By summarizing hours, menus, reservation logistics, and unique selling points, the article cuts through the holiday confusion and helps you pick a spot that aligns with your family’s taste, budget, and schedule.

If you’re curious to see the full menu or want to make a reservation, each restaurant’s link is provided in the original article. Just click through, confirm the details, and you’re set for a delightful Thanksgiving feast right in your neighborhood. Happy feasting!