Your Guide to a Stress-free Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving comes late this year, so whether you are cooking the feast or just showing up to eat it, there’s plenty of time to prepare. Head to the Shops at Hudson Yards, which has whatever you may need close at hand.

If everyone’s coming to your place:

You don’t have to do it all yourself. Citarella’s Thanksgiving menu offers a complete dinner for six or specific necessities, such as hors d’oeuvres or stuffing (of all kinds, including gluten-free). From-scratch chefs, of course, will find everything on their menu, from organic turkeys to sweet potatoes to string beans (yes, you need to put something green on the table). 

Bonus tip: Hand your guests a flute of champagne as they walk in the door. Citarella Wine & Spirits just expanded their selection of bubbly.

If you’re entrusted with dessert:

You know what they all want: pies and more pies. William Greenberg Desserts has all the traditional choices and some wild cards—coconut and sweet potato. Or, head to Bouchon to pick up a pumpkin, pecan, or apple pie.

Bonus tip: Li-Lac Chocolates has several season-specific specials, including nonpareils with yellow and orange sprinkles, foil-wrapped “harvest corn” and, for those who want to go all in on the day, an eight-inch tall chocolate turkey. It’s the perfect centerpiece for the sweets table.

If you’re the new person at the table:

Everybody else will bring wine. To make your mark, pick up some fancy olive oils—traditional (a tin of Sicily’s Barbera) or artisanal (Brightland’s extra-virgin from California) at Cook & Merchants.

Bonus tip: Lovepop’s “Give Thanks” card, featuring a colorful pop-up turkey, with a donation in the host’s honor to Mercado Little Spain chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, which feeds the hungry in the wake of disasters, is a powerful expression of the spirit of the holiday.

If you’re staying for the weekend:

Your hosts will likely be doing a lot of cooking, so a pair of matching aprons from Muji is a surprising on-message gift. Or contribute to the vibe in a different way by pairing the Japanese retailer’s signature Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser with its essential oil blends - Relax (floral & citrus) and Happy (Citrus & Herbal).

Bonus tip: The quickest way to a host’s heart is through their kids. For tweens: PiQ sells a karaoke microphone and speaker that will keep them occupied and maybe even off their devices.