Best Take-Out Thanksgiving Dinner Options in Nashville

Why let someone else do the cooking

Thanksgiving traditionally means turkey, sides, biscuits, gravy, desserts—and hours in the kitchen. But many local restaurants now offer pre-ordered take-out Thanksgiving dinners so you can enjoy the day without being tied to an oven or stove. According to recent guides, a number of Nashville establishments provide everything from full meals to individual sides and desserts.

These options are great if you’d rather spend time with family and friends than in the kitchen.

Top Take-Out Picks in Nashville

1. Loveless Cafe

Located just outside downtown, this legendary Nashville institution has been trusted for classic Southern cooking for decades.
Their take-out offer: Meal Packs designed to serve a family of four to six. The pack includes a fresh-roasted carved turkey, gravy, bourbon cranberry relish, cornbread dressing, their famed biscuits, preserves, and your choice of three sides. 

Why it’s worth it: You get a full Southern-style feast, from turkey through biscuits and sides—no cooking required.

Tip: Select your sides early (they usually include things like mac & cheese, slow-cooked green beans, etc.). These popular packs can sell out, so order ahead.

2. Monell’s

Another solid choice for take-out in Nashville. They list a “Thanksgiving Day Meal – Catered for Pickup/Take-Out” option. Orders must be prepaid and picked up on a designated day (for example, Wednesday before Thanksgiving) at their location. 

Why it stands out: It’s essentially a catered meal delivered via take-out—ideal for those who want a full spread without cooking or cleaning.

Tip: Because it’s catered and limited, it sells out fast. Mark your calendar for the order cut-off and pickup window.

3. Martin’s Bar‑B‑Que Joint

For a slightly different take on the holiday meal (with a BBQ twist), Martin’s offers Thanksgiving Meals to-go. Their options range from smaller gatherings to larger ones, with smoked turkey or ham, plus classic sides like mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green beans, rolls, and pies. 

Why it works: If you want something less “traditional turkey dinner” and more Southern-BBQ-style with all the sides, this is a fun option.

Tip: Their packages come cold with detailed reheating instructions — plan your oven/stove space accordingly.

Choosing the Right Option & What to Review

Here are some things to check and compare when you choose:

• Serving size & guests: Make sure the package you order matches the number of people you’re hosting. Some are for 4-6 people, others for 10+ guests.
  
  
• What’s included: Full meal (turkey + sides + bread + dessert) vs. just sides or dessert. Some offers allow side-only or à la carte items.
  
  
• Order deadline & pickup time: Many places require orders a week or more in advance, and have specific pickup windows. 
  
  
• Reheating instructions: Some items arrive cold and need reheating; plan accordingly.
  
  
• Dietary or style preferences: If you have vegetarians, vegans, or want something less traditional—check if the menu accommodates that (some do).
  
  
• Pickup location & logistics: Know pickup location, times, whether curbside is available, and how long until you eat once you pick up (so the food stays warm/fresh).
  
  

Final thoughts

If you’re in the Nashville area this Thanksgiving and the thought of hours in the kitchen makes you cringe—let one of these restaurants do the heavy lifting. Whether you pick the Loveless Cafe for a traditional Southern feast, Monell’s for a catered-style meal, or Martin’s for a BBQ twist—you’ll be able to gather, eat great food, and skip most of the kitchen stress.

Pro tip: order early, pick up on time, follow reheating instructions, and then focus on what matters—time with family, friends, and good conversations.