Thanksgiving in Las Vegas. The very idea promises excitement—an escape from the long hours of cooking, the endless preparation, and the mountain of dishes. But as you start searching, you’re instantly met with a sea of sameness: endless buffets and restaurants all competing on “best turkey”.
It’s a classic holiday dilemma. So, are you looking for somewhere to eat something different for Thanksgiving? Are you wondering if there’s an alternative that feels both festive and a true escape? You’ve traveled to the most exciting city in the world; you deserve more than the same traditional meal you have every other year.
This year, we’re offering a different kind of feast. We are not competing on the “best turkey” because we’re offering something far more soulful: a culturally rich Cuban celebration. This is the perfect solution for groups and families who want a festive, memorable meal without any of the traditional work.
The Thanksgiving Dilemma: Turkey vs. Tradition
For many, Thanksgiving is synonymous with turkey. But what if you’re one of the thousands searching for “restaurants open on Thanksgiving” specifically to avoid the grueling work involved? The planning, the shopping, the 8-hour cooking marathon, the clean-up—it’s a job. That’s why so many people choose to spend their Thanksgiving in Las Vegas—to escape the labor and just enjoy the celebration.
Yet, most restaurants simply replicate that same, standard menu. In Havana 1957, we believe a celebration should feel like one. It should be loud, flavorful, and full of life. Our Thanksgiving alternative is built for those who want to skip the work but double down on the flavor and the fun.
The Star of the Feast: A True Cuban Celebration
So, what is the perfect alternative to a turkey dinner? It’s a feast of authentic, homestyle Cuban classics. Instead of one bird, our festive menu is built around the dishes that define Cuban celebration.
The star of our feast is the Havana 1957 Specialty. It’s a succulent, flavorful roasted chicken, marinated in a signature Cuban gravy and slow-roasted for hours. It’s the perfect, soulful alternative to a dry, traditional turkey.
But a feast isn’t just one dish. We invite you to build a family-style celebration from our house specials:
- Ropa Vieja: The national dish of Cuba. This is slow-cooked, shredded beef stewed in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions. It’s pure comfort food.
- Vaca Frita: A beloved classic. This is steak, seared and “fried” until crispy, then topped with sautéed onions. It’s a textural, flavorful delight.
This is a meal that feels both brand new and deeply traditional. It’s the perfect “Thanksgiving alternative” for the adventurous family or the group of friends looking for a story to tell.
All the Fixings (Cuban Style)
A true feast needs its supporting cast, and our festive Cuban menu swaps the standard fare for sides that are packed with flavor, all available on our Las Vegas menu:
- Moro Rice: Forget plain rice. This is the Cuban staple of savory black beans and white rice cooked together until every grain is infused with flavor.
- Fried Sweet Plantains (Maduros): Sweet, caramelized plantains, fried to perfection. They provide the perfect sweet-and-savory balance to the rich, savory meats.
- Tostones: Savory green plantains, fried, smashed, and fried again until crispy and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will you be serving traditional turkey on Thanksgiving?
We do not! Our mission is to offer an authentic Cuban experience. We are proud to “trade the turkey for authentic flavor” and feature our celebratory Cuban dishes, like the Havana 1957 Specialty (roasted chicken) and Ropa Vieja.
Is Havana 1957 a good place for a family or group Thanksgiving meal?
Absolutely. We are designed for groups and families. Our vibrant, friendly atmosphere and large-format dishes are perfect for sharing, and we offer a wonderful solution for a festive meal without the work of cooking or cleaning.
Do I need a reservation for Thanksgiving in Las Vegas?
We highly recommend it. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year in Las Vegas. To ensure your table and avoid a long wait, we strongly suggest making a reservation in advance.
What is the atmosphere like? Is there a show?
The atmosphere is a vibrant, immersive trip to 1950s Havana. Based on specific holiday feedback, our Thanksgiving feast is focused on the food and family experience and will not include the live show. However, the restaurant will be filled with the energetic sounds of salsa and Cuban music to complete the festive “Nochebuena”-style vibe.
This year, don’t settle for the same old meal. Create a new tradition.
Trade the turkey for authentic flavor. Reserve your table now and discover our festive Cuban menu.