It’s that time of year again when your spirit of thankfulness coincides with craving your father-in-law’s stuffing. Among the blessings on your gratitude list–family, friends, health, and so much more–you can also add a community full of small businesses that make creating a memorable Thanksgiving gathering delicious and beautiful. The best part? You don’t even need to leave town.
Appetizers
Can a delectable Thanksgiving spread actually even be delectable without a cheese board from The Grater Good? These handcrafted arrangements are made with love, featuring artisan cheeses and perfect extras like fruits, nuts, and meats–tailored to your preferences. Order ahead, and when you pick up in their quaint cheese barn, be warned, you’ll find even more goodies to bring home.
It won’t surprise anyone when a plate of warm and golden cheese curds appears at a Minnesota Thanksgiving get-together. When the ooiest and gooiest is what you’re craving, order them from Iron Tap. Served with ranch and marinara sauces, you’ll be starting your Turkey Day off right with this comfort-food classic.
Those who aren’t completely sold on Brussels sprouts are going to fall head over heels for the Brussels and Bacon starter from Lola’s Lakehouse. A drizzle of truffle oil, a sprinkling of bleu cheese crumbles–and a whole lot of happy turkeys at your house.
If you plan to finish your day with apple pie, you'd better get a few veggies in the mix first. That’s why Sizzle Street’s vegetable rolls are an obvious choice to claim a little real estate next to the cranberry sauce on your Thanksgiving table.
Side Dishes
A deli salad from The Butcher’s Deli is a wonderful pairing with the rich flavors and comforting aromas of arguably the best meal of the year. Their counter menu is always changing, so give them a call or stop in to plan your side dish lineup.
Five words: Cornbread from The Southern Social. Order more than you think you’ll need because this is going to be the talk of Thanksgiving 2025. Butter pools on top of this melt-in-your-mouth comforting addition. Expect applause (and requests for seconds!)
If veggies were royalty, this one would be king of the table. The Noble Lion dresses up their broccolini with mildly spicy pepper from France and light, refreshing lemon vinaigrette. Now, this is the way to get your vitamin C.
The turkey won’t be the only thing brimming with flavor when you bring home Winchester & Rye’s stuffed mushrooms. Savory bites loaded with herb cream cheese… what could be better?
Main Dish
If you’d rather be watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade instead of basting and brining, let Mackenthun’s Fine Foods take over the kitchen duties. Order your fully cooked turkey, pick it up, then heat and serve!
Not a turkey family? Buddy Boy Fine Barbecue has you covered. Put their spare ribs or pulled pork front and center, and watch everyone start gobbling.
You’re ready to get a little creative, so of course, you turn to Gongoll Beef. Steaks or roasts pair amazingly with garlic mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.
Dessert
Simply dial 952.442.4447 to order a delicious bookend to your Thanksgiving feast. Bakery on Main makes a show-stopping pie, and you’ll want one of every flavor to complete your holiday feast.
The Cookie Store is a delicious (and adorable!) option for a Turkey Day dessert–perfect for the not-so-pie people. You’ll have a tough time deciding what you love most: the detail, the colors, or the flavor.
A cotton candy cake? Believe it. Candie Clouds makes gourmet cotton candy that turns any table into a celebration–and everyone into a fan.
Beverages
Wash down those sweet potatoes with a Wactown Wheat or 255 Amber Ale from Waconia Brewing Company. Just pick up a few growlers of your favorites and sip away.
OMNI Brewery and Taproom is another option to utilize when your Thanksgiving goals are to create something unforgettable. They offer a wide variety of signature beers, each adding extra flavor and flair to your table.
If wine is your preferred pour, you’re in luck with three delightful wineries situated right in Waconia: Schram Vineyards, Sovereign Estate, and Parley Lake Winery. With fine wine and excellent company, your Thanksgiving will be complete.
Thanksgiving without a cocktail mixed with J. Carver Distillery’s spirits is like a turkey without the gravy. What’s more, you can conveniently grab a bottle at the distillery when you’re there for cocktail hour, or at neighborhood liquor stores.
Table Décor
So, now your table tastes delicious–but how does it look? Swing into Main St. Floral or Victoria Rose Floral (or order online) to add seasonal blooms and vibrant colors for a warm holiday setting. Lakeside Loft and Carpenter’s Daughter are your headquarters for fall décor. Both offer decorative touches like candles and accents that reflect a season full of thanks and giving.