Thanks to a term I know we’re all about sick (literally and figuratively) of hearing, COVID 19, the upcoming seasons are going to look a bit different for the vast majority of us. Usually this is the time of year when we look forward to that favorite aunt of ours baking a special sweet potato pie, or grandmama’s banana pudding and you can’t forget your cousin’s dressing with giblet gravy and the cranberry sauce with the ridges in it (because the homemade stuff with whole cranberries in it can’t be trusted). This year many of us find ourselves facing the first time where we won’t be gathering in large groups with extended family. We’ll only be with those that live in our homes and for some of us that means we’ll be spending this time alone. If you’re wanting to still get a taste of the fall without having to over spend on groceries and cook a huge meal for just a few to enjoy, then this is the spot for you. Below are some options for celebrations of 4 people or less. If you know of any others to add to the list feel free to reach me at brandisfoodiediary@gmail.com.
Le Rouge Cuisine
Le Rouge Cuisine is bringing creole flair to Dallas cuisine. For the holidays not only can you fill your large family needs and get take and bake options, but you can also order COVID Care Meals. These are individual plates for those spending the holidays away from family. This would be great to send to older church members that may not be connected to family or for those like myself that will be spending this time solo dolo. Be sure to check out her holiday themed virtual cooking classes. This is a great way to be festive with a group from a distance.
Smokey John’s BBQ
Smokey John’s BBQ has found a way to wrap all of your favorite things up into the perfect package. You get the turkey leg trend that is sweeping the nation by storm combined with your fall family gathering favorites, turkey and dressing. You can order the package of 2 stuffed turkey legs which would be perfect to feed a family of 2 to 4 people. Or you can be greedy and keep it to yourself and save the rest for left overs. I’m not here to judge. If you do plan on hitting the road, no worries. Just let them know, and they can package your food so that it is travel friendly and give you heating instructions for when you reach your destination.
Chopping Roots (Vegan Option)
Do you need to go meat and dairy free for this special meal? No problem. Chopping Roots has you covered with meals for four. You can also pick from a la carte options.
Celebration Restaurant
The MINI feasts from Celebration are just the thing to set you up for a stress free fall break. You get to choose from your favorites like Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans and rolls to name a few. These mini feasts feed up to 4 people.
Honey Baked Ham
Listen, you can say whatever you want to say, but I grew up eating Honey Baked Ham and this place has a special place in my heart! I don’t eat ham anymore, but when I discovered the honey baked turkey I wondered where it had been all of my life. You can get a little piece of nostalgia this season with their options that can accommodate individual needs with the by the slice dinner packages or small party needs.
Our Door To Yours Catering
Our Door To Yours catering is a company I have personally used for a few special celebrations and they hold a special place in my heart. This upcoming season they have a special menu that includes family packs to serve a party of 4 to 6 people. You can also choose from their larger party options or a la carte features.
Cobbler Gobbler
Mark my words when I say that Cobbler Gobbler makes some of the best peach cobbler in the metroplex! Thankfully you can get your orders in now to, but fair warning, I highly recommend getting a pan. I may or may not have knocked out a pan in one day by myself. You can also get individual portion sizes. Oh and that sweet potato cobbler. You’re going to want to add that to your order too. Thank me later. Or thank me by sending me some lol.
Val’s Cheesecakes
The cutest cheesecakes in Dallas are the perfect treat for the fall. You can order the signature cheesecake jars, order by the slice or just order a whole customizable flavor cheesecake (like I did for my birthday). The great thing about this option is you don’t necessarily have to order ahead (though I highly encourage it). If you find yourself on Thanksgiving Day with a sweet tooth you need to quench then Val’s has you covered. They will be open the day of for limited hours on a first come first serve basis. The Greenville Ave location will be open from 11am to 3pm to meet your needs.
Chef Ashley’s Tipsy Buns
With all of the events I’ve attended by Chef Ashley I can say those Tipsy Buns have always been a hit, and have certainly made a name for themselves. These boosy cinnamon rolls come in a variety of flavors and they leave you wanting more. These would make the perfect exclamation point to your meal. If you have a slightly larger party for your fall meal or want to set up a private in home chef experience Chef Ashley has you covered there as well. Her experience working in the top restaurants in the country will leave you with an elevated experience.
Now some of you might be wondering, why doesn’t Brandi just say Thanksgiving? That’s because Brandi doesn’t do Thanksgiving BUT I do take the time off and time with family over a great meal seriously. It’s needed to recharge and reset. I also enjoy spending time with friends for a fall themed celebration, but unfortunately I won’t be able to do that this year. Hopefully these suggestions will help take a little bit off of our plates and help us to still feed our souls with flavors we’ve come to look forward to having year after year.