Holiday Take-Out Tips for Stress-Free Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas Meals

Are you taking a break from cooking this Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or Christmas? Dining out for the holidays can be tricky because restaurants are often crowded and noisy thanks to droves of families. Thankfully, a variety of restaurants and some grocery stores offer take-out meals for the holidays.

Use these tips to make the most of your holiday meal order and have a delicious experience.

Check the Details
Avoid unpleasant surprises by reviewing the restaurant's policies. Be sure to place your order before the deadline. Verify your order and, if applicable, get a receipt for your deposit. Check the available pick-up or delivery times. Some restaurants that offer holiday take-out meals are not open on the respective holiday or have restrictive hours. Confirm the pick-up terms.

Heat and Serve or Hot and Ready?
Some take-out meals emerge from a frosty fridge and require heating. This allows some flexibility in the pick-up and serving time. If you are presenting the meal as homemade, this option also creates a strong aroma as the food warms up. Depending on the size of the meal, reheating can take a substantial amount of time. Other meals are piping hot and ready for the dinner plate. This option typically includes an upcharge.

Try the Restaurant's Food
Try the restaurant's food or ask questions to make sure it suits your tastes. For example, some cooks add a generous dose of sugar to cornbread. If applicable, confirm that the food meet special dietary needs.

Order Take-Out to Accommodate Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Diets
Does your guest list include vegetarians or vegans, but your menu is for omnivores? Provided your guests have no qualms dining near meat, you can purchase a specialty meal or entree. Gluten-free dishes are also available Check out the selection from stores such as Central Market, Whole Foods Market and Sprouts.

Customize Your Holiday Meal Order
Pre-planned meal packages are meant to serve a certain number of people. Knowing your guests, you may want to add additional quantities of a la carte items, such as rolls or gravy.