Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Houston

 
Cleburne Cafeteria is open on Thanksgiving in Houston. Photo courtesy of Cleburne Cafeteria

1. Cleburne Cafeteria - West University/Upper Kirby area

11 a.m. to 8 p.m. - no reservations

A local institution serving homemade-style comfort food, including turkey and dressing, pies, and a cafeteria-line setup. The environment is homey, the portions generous, and parents can relax knowing their kids can pick what they like.

2. The Federal Grill  - Heights, Downtown, Katy

11 a.m. - 5 p.m. - reservations recommended

The Federal Grill is a great choice for a family Thanksgiving dinner in Houston if you want to enjoy a classic turkey-dinner holiday special or order from the regular menu. The vibe is polished yet relaxed, so the whole family should enjoy their special Thanksgiving dinner.

3. Brennan’s of Houston - Midtown

11 a.m.  - 7 p.m. menu - reservations by phone call required

Brennan’s brings its Creole flair to the holiday with dishes like sweet-potato grits, pecan-pie bread pudding, and a nicely done turkey. Kids get the novelty of a “special occasion” dinner (which hopefully helps get them excited about sitting still), but it’s still relaxed enough for a family meal. Great for a family Thanksgiving dinner in Houston, where you want something a little more festive.

4. House of Pies - Various locations

This Houston landmark establishment will be serving up its home-style cooking for the entire day on Thanksgiving. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner favorites will be available all day, as well as a variety of their Houston-famous pies and cakes. Seating is first-come, first-served on Thanksgiving day. Pies cannot be ordered in advance for Thanksgiving week.

 
The famous Thanksgiving buffet at The Aquarium. Photo courtesy of The Aquarium

5. The Aquarium - Downtown and Kemah

The Aquarium will be serving up a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner in Houston. Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast and keep the kids entertained with the beautiful tanks. 

 
You don't have to get seafood for Thanksgiving dinner at Babin's - but you can! Photo courtesy of Babin's Seafood House

6. Babin's Seafood House - Katy and The Woodlands

This Cajun seafood spot may not scream “traditional turkey dinner,” but their holiday options include turkey, ham, and trimmings, and the regular menu is also available for kids who want something different. The restaurant has a casual setting, generous portions, and is welcoming to families. 

The legendary sign of Dot Coffee Shop in Houston - photo courtesy of the diner

7. Dot Coffee Shop - Downtown

This legendary South Houston diner traditionally offers a Thanksgiving Day meal around the clock. Stop in for turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and a slice of their traditional pecan or apple pies.

8. Maggiano’s Little Italy - Post Oak & Memorial City

11 a.m.  - 8 p.m. - reservations recommended

This is a reliable family-pleaser: big tables, shared portions, and both holiday turkey plates and Italian classics (spaghetti, lasagna) that kids often prefer. It makes sharing easy and is totally family-friendly.

9. Rainforest Café - Galveston

11 a.m.  - 9 p.m. - reservations recommended

With animatronic animals, a volcanic eruption every 30 minutes, and themed décor, this spot provides built-in entertainment for kids while the meal happens. Thanksgiving special menu is affordable and kid-friendly, and Galveston has many top things to do with kids for post-dinner fun.

10. Kin Dee Thai Cuisine  - The Heights

11.a.m. - 3 p.m., 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Turkey and trimmings don’t have to be the only option for Thanksgiving - why not try a Thai celebration and do something different! Kin Dee Thai Cuisine is open on Thanksgiving Day and specializes in noodle dishes and has a tropical and casual atmosphere.

Buffet & Brunch Options for Families on Thanksgiving in Houston

11. Moody Gardens Hotel Garden Restaurant Thanksgiving Buffet

10.30 a.m.  - 8.30 p.m. - reservations required

This resort buffet is ideal for families: tons of choices (so even picky eaters win), kids can roam a little, and the environment is festive and relaxed. Moody Gardens has other Thanksgiving dining options, including a brunch in the Ballroom. Moody Gardens always goes all out for the holidays, so the kids will be well-entertained.

12. South Shore Harbour Resort - League City

10.30 a.m. - 2 p.m. - reservations recommended by phone or email

This hotel's Thanksgiving Feast buffet costs $60 for adults, $30 for kids 6-12, and under 5s are free. Enjoy live music alongside your meal, and you can also admire the annual gingerbread house display in the hotel lobby.

Tips for Dining Out on Thanksgiving with Kids

• Reserve early. Many of these spots fill up quickly and may require pre-orders.
• Bring quiet activities. Even fun spots have wait times - crayons, sticker books, a tablet, or a small toy go a long way.
• Consider brunch or early seating. Younger kids often do better earlier in the day than late dinner.
• Ask for kid-portions or sharing options. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate picky eaters.
• Explain the outing to kids ahead of time. Setting expectations (“you need to sit at the table, you can choose a fun dessert”) helps smooth the experience.