Thanksgiving in Mesa, AZ, brings warm light, friendly smiles, and a chance to foster community spirit. For many residents, it’s a day to gather with friends and family — and often, to let someone else handle the cooking. Whether people prefer to dine out, pick up a festive dinner to enjoy at home, or access help in their community, Mesa offers a variety of thoughtful options for Thanksgiving Day.
From traditional sit-down dinners to specially prepared takeout meals and donation-based community efforts, Mesa provides choices that are both convenient and meaningful. With 2025 just around the corner, now is the time to explore what’s available, plan ahead, and savor the holiday in a way that works best for each household.
Warm-Styled Thanksgiving at a Western Steakhouse
One standout option for a dine-in Thanksgiving experience is Rustler’s Rooste. Located just a short drive from Mesa on South Mountain, this Western-themed steakhouse is serving a traditional holiday dinner on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, from 11 AM to 8 PM. According to their menu, guests can choose a “Holiday Turkey Dinner” with mushroom-sage stuffing, mashed potatoes, cracklin’ gravy, corn on the cob, candied yams, and their signature cranberry-pear-walnut relish.
Rustler’s also offers a family-style “Turkey Stuff” package that feeds eight to ten people — a 16–20 lb oven-roasted Tom turkey, sides, salad, and a choice between a pumpkin or apple pie. Guests are encouraged to call ahead to reserve as seating is limited.
Relax at Las Sendas on the Patio
For a more serene and scenic dine-in experience, Las Sendas Golf Club in Mesa offers a Thanksgiving dinner on its patio. According to Visit Mesa, they host a special patio meal with the whole holiday spread. Their local seasonal menu typically includes roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and dessert — all set in a peaceful outdoor space overlooking the golf course.
Las Sendas also makes it easy to enjoy Thanksgiving at home: they provide a takeout whole Thanksgiving dinner that feeds multiple people, perfect for those who want a gourmet meal without the cooking.
Take-Home Feasts Made Simple
If staying in is more your style, Mesa has plenty of takeout and catering options. As noted by Visit Mesa, in addition to Las Sendas, local favorites like Rustler’s Rooste provide catering or to-go packages for Thanksgiving, allowing families to enjoy a holiday meal without the mess.
Las Sendas’ takeout includes their full turkey dinner, soups, sides, and desserts, all packaged and ready to reheat. Because these meals can sell out, it’s wise to place orders well before Thanksgiving Day.
Generous Community Meals for Those in Need
Mesa is also committed to supporting residents who may need help around the holidays. According to ABC15, free or donation-based Thanksgiving meals and food items will be distributed at locations such as the Mesa Convention Center.
United Food Bank, in partnership with the City of Mesa, hosts a drive-thru Thanksgiving food distribution where families can receive seasonal bags containing turkeys, produce, and nonperishable items.
Meanwhile, St. Mary’s Food Bank continues to call for community support through its “Turkey Countdown” campaign, helping ensure that more families can enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal.
Timing Matters — Plan to Avoid Disappointment
Given the popularity of these Thanksgiving options, it’s critical to reserve early. Restaurants like Rustler’s Rooste encourage guests to call ahead to secure seating for their holiday dinner.
Takeout meals from Las Sendas and similar venues often sell out quickly, so placing orders well in advance is the best move. Visit Mesa emphasizes that availability varies by location, especially on Thanksgiving Day, so early planning is essential to avoid missing out.
Bringing It All Together
For residents of Mesa, AZ, Thanksgiving 2025 offers a full spectrum of dining and community support options. Whether looking for a relaxed sit-down meal with family, a convenient take-home feast, or a way to volunteer or receive help, the city has thoughtfully organized holiday offerings.
Through both commercial and charitable efforts, Mesa makes it possible to celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that blends tradition, ease, and generosity. By planning, residents can enjoy the warmth of the holiday without the stress — and share it with others who might need some extra support.
Sources: mesanow.org, abc15.com, visitmesa.com, rustlersrooste.com, visitmesa.com, St. Mary’s Food Bank Facebook Page
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