Thanksgiving is all about traditions and for many their holiday does not including cooking or cleaning. Some people chose to leave Thanksgiving dinner to the professionals.
Barbara McClendon and her friend Don Wheatley got their turkey with all the fixin’s, without lifting more than their forks. They went to Abigail's Grille & Bar in Simsbury.
“It’s a lot easier," said Wheatley.
No dirty dishes to deal with and no leftovers taking up room in the fridge.
“Every Thanksgiving we go out to eat," Wheatley explained.
They’re not alone. Abigail’s hosted 700 people for a full Thanksgiving dinner Thursday.
“Dinner for two at Thanksgiving time really doesn’t make sense if you’re going to cook it," said Marty Leftoff who dined with his wife Beth.
The cooks at Abigail’s prepared 100 turkeys, 200 pounds of mashed potatoes, and 100 pounds of stuffing.
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“We are ready with about 60 apple pies, 60 pumpkin pies, and 30 pecan pies. You’ve gotta have pie. That’s a lot of pie," said Abigail's manager Markus Lehofer.
Abigail’s is an institution. Standing in Simsbury since 1781, many say the place is haunted. However, it didn't seem to scare anyone away.
“It’s busy. It’s one of the busiest days for us," said Jeffrey Kelley, one of the restaurant's servers.
This year, the restaurant was booked solid, with many guests who return year after year.
“It’s just really relaxing. Thanksgiving for us is always very relaxing," said Beth Leftoff.
“It’s great. It’s a big day for families to come together and it’s our job to make sure they have a great time and get to enjoy each other’s company and have a nice holiday," said Kelley.
After the crowds cleared, Kelley and the rest of the staff planned to have their own Thanksgiving meal. Where else but here?
