Photo taken by Zach Dauth.

If you’re looking for thanks to give this Thanksgiving, perhaps extend gratitude to Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar who will be staying open all holi-day to serve guests its full dining and cocktail menu, along with additional specials including fresh Stone Crabs, baked stuffed seafood, Alaskan King Crab, steamed oysters, oysters on the half shell, and their famous Spanish paella. But say you're fiending for the more tried and true flavors of Thanksgiving. Worry not. There's a bountiful plate of traditional favorites prepared by Chef Pedro and Chef Rafael with your name on it. The Thanksgiving Dinner option features a hearty helping of oven-roasted carved turkey—tender white and dark meat smothered in housemade sage gravy—along with all the fixings including creamy mashed potatoes, sweet potato cobbler, broccoli au gratin, croissant sage andouille stuffing with fried onions, a house-baked corn muffin and fresh cranberry sauce. 

Should you decide to dine out for this month's third Thursday, pull into the historic village via car or tie the boat to the dock to enjoy an old Florida gathering at the waterfront restaurant located on the banks of Phillippi Creek. While taking in the views on the open deck, Assistant Vice President of Phillippi Creek Village, Amy Berlin insists of doubling up on your holiday feast by asking for the Frozen Pumpkin Pie cocktail—a generous glassful of Bacardi Spiced Rum, Mozart Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Cream Liqueur, vanilla ice cream, pumpkin puree and cinnamon blended and served with whipped cream, powdered nutmeg and a twisty straw that may provoke brain freeze should you excitedly slurp the icy cocktail too eagerly. No judgement either way. ‘Tis the season for gluttony and glee. 

For the turkey lovers who’d prefer to chill at home and remain socially distanced, but can’t be bothered in the kitchen, consider ordering carry out. Call at least 48 hours in advance for your number of turkey dinners needed—$29.95 per person—or family-style packages available for four, eight or 12 the day before. The team will provide the full monty—cooked, prepped and packaged with reheating instructions for curbside pick-up either Wednesday, November 25 or Thanksgiving day, 10am - 2pm. 

Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar, 5353 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-925-4444, creekseafood.com 

Photo taken by Zach Dauth.