The Thanksgiving menu is coming together. The guest list is set. Now comes the important question: What are you actually making, and what can you leave to the professionals? Fortunately, New Haven has plenty of good answers. Whether you’re hosting the whole table, bringing dessert or just responsible for showing up with something delicious, here’s where to start.
First, the Thanksgiving table. One important note: Holiday menus, preorder deadlines and pickup arrangements vary, so check directly with each business before making your plans.
Start at the farmers market. CitySeed Wooster Square Farmers Market is a good first stop for seasonal vegetables, locally produced foods, fresh breads and baked goods. November 21 marks the final scheduled market before Thanksgiving, so bring your shopping list, browse what’s in season and see what inspires the menu.
For the bread basket (and then some): Atticus Market is a natural stop for artisan loaves, pastries, pantry staples and baked goods. The market has offered Thanksgiving specialties in previous years, so keep an eye on its latest announcements for seasonal offerings and ordering details.
For the traditionalists: Lucibello’s Italian Pastry Shop is a New Haven favorite for cannoli, Italian cookies and celebration desserts. A box of assorted pastries is rarely a bad contribution to a holiday gathering.
For something a little more elegant: Union League Pâtisserie brings French pastry expertise to the dessert table, with tarts, macarons and beautifully crafted sweets that make arriving empty-handed practically impossible.
For the morning after: G Café Bakery knows its way around a good loaf of bread, but the croissants, pastries and other bakery treats deserve attention, too. Consider it a stop for Thanksgiving weekend breakfasts, when cooking another elaborate meal is probably the last thing on your mind.
Then, let the holidays begin. Once the leftovers are packed away, Downtown New Haven is ready for its next act.
Photo courtesy of G.Cafe Instagram
