BRICK, NJ — Planning to skip the Thanksgiving cooking marathon this year? Several restaurants in Brick and nearby Ocean County communities are preparing to welcome diners on Thanksgiving Day, offering everything from traditional holiday meals to casual dining and international cuisine.

With Thanksgiving falling on Thursday, November 26, 2026, residents looking to enjoy the holiday without spending hours in the kitchen have several options. But with reservations expected to fill quickly, making plans early could be important.

Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in and Around Brick

Here are some local restaurants listed as open for Thanksgiving, along with their reported hours:

• Houlihan’s – Route 70, Brick. Open noon to 7 p.m.
• Villa Vittoria – 2700 Hooper Ave., Brick. Reservations required, with seating beginning at noon and the last reservations at 6:30 p.m.
• Rainbow Diner – 849 Route 70, Brick. Open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• The Grenville Hotel and Restaurant – Route 35, Bay Head. Thanksgiving buffet from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations required.
• The Ark Pub and Eatery – 201 Sea Ave., Point Pleasant Beach. Open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for its Kegs and Eggs event.
• The Wharfside – 101 Channel Drive, Point Pleasant Beach. Open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations available.

More Thanksgiving Dining Options in Ocean County

Additional restaurants throughout the surrounding area are also offering Thanksgiving dining options.

In Toms River, several establishments are listed as welcoming holiday diners:

• Villa Amalfi – 1006 Route 166. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Royal Grill 37 – 10 Route 37. Open 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Tardi’s Ristorante – 931 Fischer Blvd. Open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Water Street Bar & Grill – 4 Robbins Parkway. Open 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Teresa’s Osaka Asian Bistro – 1801 Route 37 East. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Xina Restaurant – 340 Route 37 East. Open noon to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For those who prefer Thanksgiving at home without preparing the entire meal, Artisan’s Restaurant and Brewery at 1171 Hooper Ave. in Toms River is offering holiday takeout. Orders must be placed by November 19, with pickup scheduled for noon on Thanksgiving Day.

National Restaurant Chains May Also Be Open

Several national restaurant chains may provide additional dining choices for Thanksgiving.

Denny’s is advertising a holiday meal featuring turkey breast, stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce and sides.

IHOP, Pizza Hut, Wendy’s, McDonald’s and Burger King may also have participating locations open, although hours and availability vary by restaurant.

Customers should check directly with their local locations before making plans.

Make Your Thanksgiving Reservations Early

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest dining holidays of the year, and popular seating times can fill up well in advance.

Restaurants may have different menus, seating arrangements and reservation requirements, so calling ahead or checking their websites is recommended.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional turkey dinner, a restaurant outing with family or simply a break from holiday cleanup, Brick and the surrounding Ocean County area have several possibilities to consider.

One less meal to cook, one more opportunity to enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends!