By Jodie (smartshanghai.com)
Updated: 2007-11-22 09:21

Thanksgiving is around the corner. Where to have a big thanksgiving meal is a question on everyone's mind. Here are some suggestions.

For us Americans, the display of unabashed gluttony shown on Thanksgiving holiday is surpassed by none, and this year need not, nay, must not, be any different. Just because you are in Shanghai doesn't mean you have to forgo this most glorious of holidays. On the contrary, fine restaurants across the city are offering a variety of robust Thanksgiving meals for your feasting pleasure. Admittedly dubious, the story of Thanksgiving is nonetheless a well-intentioned tale promoting harvest and good will – a time when pilgrims and Indians set aside their differences for the sake of a hearty meal, and then lived happily ever after. Today, in the best of liberal traditions, this is a non-discriminatory, non-denominational holiday, which is precisely why everyone is invited to participate in the festivities. Even *gasp* the British. If your own national loyalties are hindering you from celebrating this holiday, by all means let go of your reservations... but do be sure to make one for one of these restaurants listed below:

This year, Moon River Diner has different Thanksgiving meals at each outlet: Brilliance Mall West will have a buffet, while Pudong will do a family style dinner (one seating only). MR Jingan is having a family-style dinner on the third floor with a dessert buffet and after-dinner drinks that you can enjoy even if you do not join them for the dinner. Also, the second floor will have a "Turkey plate." If you want to take Thanksgiving home, fully-cooked turkeys (pre-order only) will be available in MRs Brilliance Mall West, Jingan and Pudong. Make it quick though, supplies are limited.

Le Bistro in Le Royal Meridien Shanghai is giving a sumptuous buffet dinner with free flow beer, soft drinks, coffee and tea for 278rmb plus a 15% service charge. For reservations call 3318 9999 ext. 7008. Available from 6pm until 10pm on Nov 22.

Zapata's has a set menu for 188rmb/per person, which includes: Champagne on arrival, traditional Pumpkin soup with crispy tortilla and spiced cream, roast turkey, bread stuffing, corn bread, roast vegetables, green peas, cranberry chutney. Additional side dishes like mashed potatoes can be arranged if you mention the request in your reservation. The dessert menu includes fudge brownies, pumpkin pie and pecan tart. Lastly, Zapata’s will give away complimentary bottles of tequila for parties of 10 people and more! For large parties, the restaurant can organize customized drinks options. For reservations call 138 1866 9754 or mail to marketing@zapatas-shanghai.com.

Both sasha's and their new steakhouse (and then some) expansion prime are hosting Thanksgiving menus from Nov 22 to 25. The later is offering a traditional four course turkey dinner (with steak options) for 488rmb. They're serving a glass of champagne on arrival and groups of four receive a complimentary bottle of wine.

Mural bar is offering a choice of two Thanksgiving set menus. All sets include appetizers, soup, main course, dessert, coffee / tea. Every two set meals purchased receives a free bottle of sparkling white wine or red wine. Set A costs 198 rmb/person, 380 rmb/two people. Set B costs 268 rmb/person and 500 rmb/2 people. Dinner is served between 6:30pm and 10:30pm. Live Latin Jazz Band from 9:30pm.

If you are looking for more upscale dining, Jean Georges is offering an extensive menu of delights at 888 rmb/person, with dinner starting at 6pm. Options will include: sea scallop tartar, lemon zest, sea urchin, and spiced oil; sweet potato ravioli, brown butter vinaigrette with sage; sauteed foie gras, marinated strawberries, sesame, horseradish; slowly cooked salmon, black truffle mashed potatoes, and black truffle vinaigrette; roast organic turkey, chestnut-sourdough stuffing; Thanksgiving dessert tasting.

Catering: Finally, if you are looking to enjoy the holiday with your loved ones at home this year, there is yet another option. My friends and I have ordered our Thanksgiving feast from The Party People catering service. The Party People will deliver free of charge within the second ring, and have fantastic Thanksgiving menus serving six to eight people for 1200rmb. Call 86 21 5477 0998 or visit www.simplythegroup.com/PartyPeople.