Debbie Croft: Thanksgiving feasts await in Yosemite, foothills

Head to the mountains for Thanksgiving and let someone else do the cooking. Some of California’s best restaurants are situated in the central Sierra. Menus, prices, seating times and related activities vary. And some establishments require reservations.

Whether you go for the day or spend the weekend, one of the following holiday outings should appeal.

▪ Roast turkey and prime rib will be served at Ducey’s on the Lake near Oakhurst. A variety of entrees, salads, side dishes and desserts will be included in the Thanksgiving dinner buffet, prepared by executive chef Johnathan Frabotta.

Serving times are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations must be made. Call (800) 350-7463, or visit www.basslake.com and click on “event calendar” for details.

▪ Tenaya Lodge makes holidays more than memorable. A festive buffet will be served in the Grand Ballroom. Both on-site restaurants invite diners to order from their special holiday menus. The Embers Restaurant features range grown turkey from Diestel Ranch in Sonora.

Located only two miles from Yosemite’s south entrance, the lodge also provides indoor and outdoor fun. Enjoy opening day of Tenaya’s ice skating rink on Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. At various times throughout the weekend, guests can decorate a gingerbread house or bundle up for a sleigh ride (weather permitting).

Live entertainment and complimentary hot beverages precede the annual tree lighting ceremony on the evening of Nov. 29. And Santa will be on hand for photos with the kids. More information is available at www.tenayalodge.com or call (877) 247-9241.

▪ The grandeur of Yosemite combined with the culinary skill of award-winning chefs draws visitors to the national park time and again. Dine at one of three locations this Thanksgiving while enjoying traditional favorites, or vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal options.

In Yosemite Valley, executive chef Percy Whatley will prepare his legendary holiday feast for guests of the historic Ahwahnee Hotel.

Surrounded by pines and Victorian elegance, the Wawona Hotel offers your choice of entrees, accompanied by an appetizer, soup or salad and assorted desserts.

The Mountain Room Restaurant at Yosemite Lodge provides a cozy yet elegant setting for families gathered around the table. Order from the à la carte dinner menu or enjoy the full dinner for one price.

Call (801) 559-4935 to make a reservation or visit www.yosemitepark.com. (Click on “plan,” “where to eat,” “holiday dining,” then “Thanksgiving dinner.”)

▪ For a casual holiday dinner try Cafe at the Bug. This popular eatery is located at the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort between Mariposa and El Portal. Organic, heirloom and locally grown produce, quality meats, sustainable fish, original recipe dressings and homemade desserts are standard menu items. But for Thanksgiving, a feast awaits.

Reservations are not required. Serving times are from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Check www.yosemitebug.com and click on “autumn” to view current activities and Thanksgiving dinner details. Call (866) 826-7108 for more information.

▪ The crowds have dissipated, but the weather is still comfortable, making this season one of the best for visiting our Sierra. While you’re here, take time to step outside after the sun goes down. Then look up and be amazed.

I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving.

This story was originally published December 6, 2014 at 11:33 PM with the headline "Debbie Croft: Thanksgiving feasts await in Yosemite, foothills."