As Thanksgiving approaches, a growing number of Americans are choosing to forget cooking and instead rely on restaurants to provide their holiday meals. Popmenu‘s latest study on Thanksgiving dining habits reveals that 37% of consumers plan to order takeout or delivery for their Thanksgiving dinner this year, an increase from 32% in 2023.
While dining out has become less popular, with only 5% opting to eat at restaurants compared to 17% last year, the shift underscores a preference for convenience and professionally prepared meals enjoyed at home.
Popmenu’s survey, conducted among more than 1,000 U.S. consumers between November 17 and 18, 2024, sheds light on why many are leaving the kitchen behind this holiday season.
According to respondents, 75% of consumers cited convenience as a major factor in their decision to order from restaurants, while 32% noted it was either cheaper or cost-neutral compared to preparing the meal themselves. Other reasons included fatigue from cooking (23%) and the desire for a professionally crafted meal (22%).
The average anticipated spending for Thanksgiving dinner, including all guests, is approximately $170, according to the study.
Brendan Sweeney, CEO and Co-founder of Popmenu, highlighted the growing trend of outsourcing holiday meals.
“Ordering in or dining out for Thanksgiving is becoming a new tradition for consumers who just want to relax and enjoy a meal versus serving as the family chef for the day,”
He also noted that some restaurants have seen pre-orders ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, underscoring the demand for these services.
While turkey remains the centerpiece of most Thanksgiving feasts, 87% of respondents indicated it would be served, other popular options include ham, favored by 39% of participants.
Side dishes play a crucial role in the traditional meal, with stuffing leading the pack at 68%, followed by mashed potatoes (60%), mac and cheese (42%), sweet potatoes (42%), and green beans (41%). Cranberry sauce, cornbread, and corn also make frequent appearances.
Interestingly, nearly one-third (31%) of consumers admitted to having fast food for Thanksgiving at least once, showcasing the variety of dining preferences during the holiday.
For those who haven’t finalized their Thanksgiving plans, Popmenu offers practical advice to secure a stress-free dining experience.
Checking restaurant websites for menu details, placing orders directly to avoid third-party fees, and using reservation platforms like OpenTable are all recommended strategies. “Although it’s tougher to book something the week of Thanksgiving, there are still restaurants taking orders and reservations,” Sweeney noted.
Looking beyond Thanksgiving, the survey indicates a continued reliance on restaurants for upcoming holiday celebrations. Approximately 28% of consumers plan to order from or dine at restaurants for Christmas, while 35% anticipate doing the same for New Year’s Eve.
The study, conducted anonymously among U.S. adults aged 18 and older, provides insight into evolving holiday dining habits.
