Explore the Enduring Legacy and Cultural Importance of the Beloved ‘Turkey’ Feast, Fostering Togetherness and Gratitude Among Families Through Time
Thanksgiving Day, rooted in the 16th century, brings Christians together to celebrate gratitude. Central to this tradition is the indulgence in roast turkey, a practice that has endured through the centuries.
Timeline:
In 1620, Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts, surviving harsh conditions.
Their first Thanksgiving on December 13, 1621, marked the beginning of the roast turkey tradition—a communal celebration with Native Americans.
President Abraham Lincoln, in 1863, declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, cementing its place on the fourth Thursday in November. The feast symbolizes unity, gratitude, and a bountiful harvest.
Why did turkeys become a focal point in the feast?
Initially, various meats were part of the feast, but turkeys gained prominence due to their prevalence and association with Native American agricultural practices.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, the roast turkey remains a symbol of gratitude, abundance, and enduring tradition. From the Pilgrims’ First Thanksgiving to modern-day festivities, the succulent turkey continues to unite families in the spirit of thankfulness. Enjoy this timeless tradition with loved ones, savoring the essence of the holiday season.
Ever wondered why roast turkey is called “turkey” despite being a bird from the grouse family, not chickens?
The “Turkey” Misconception:
The term “turkey” for roast turkey does not originate from the country Turkey; it’s a linguistic twist with a historical mix-up. In the 1500s, English traders mistook guinea fowls from Africa for turkeys due to their similar appearance.These guinea fowls, imported from Africa to Europe, were then dubbed “Turkish chickens” as they were brought via Turkey.
The Evolution of the Term:
When European settlers encountered large birds similar to guinea fowls in North America, they incorrectly labeled them as “turkeys.” Over time, the misnomer stuck, and by the 1700s, Americans were commonly referring to the bird as “turkey.”
International Perspectives:
In Turkey, the bird is called “hindi” in Turkish, a term adopted to recall the indigenous people of India, not Native Americans. French speakers call it “dinde,” suggesting a connection to India but again referencing Native Americans mistakenly.
Fun Facts:
Portuguese traders introduced guinea fowls to Europe, creating the initial mix-up. In Vietnam, roast turkey is humorously named “gat ay,” translating to “elephant chicken,” highlighting the unique appearance. In Dari (spoken in Afghanistan), it’s referred to as “fel murgh,” meaning “elephant chicken” due to its elephant-like protuberance.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the tradition of enjoying roast turkey continues, carrying with it a name that has traversed through cultural misunderstandings and linguistic quirks. Whether you call it “turkey,” “dinde,” or “hindi,” the essence of this festive dish remains a symbol of gratitude and togetherness.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Festive Buffet at Orchid Café, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Indulge in a sumptuous Thanksgiving feast at Orchid Café, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel. This exquisite buffet dinner, held to commemorate the Thanksgiving holiday, features a specially crafted menu with seasonal delights.
Highlights of the Thanksgiving Buffet:
Imported roast turkey from Australia, expertly oven-roasted. Pumpkin and herb-baked butternut squash, mashed potatoes, assorted vegetables, and savory herb gravy. Fresh seafood selection, including live oysters, sushi, sashimi, and tempting Japanese teppanyaki. A variety of salads and soups, complemented by cold-cut platters, smoked salmon, and an array of international cheeses. Thai specialties, homemade pasta, and a live grill station with Australian beef, lamb, and pork. Delectable desserts capturing the essence of the season, along with traditional Thanksgiving sweets.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, November 23, 2023
Time: 18:00 – 22:30 hrs
Price: Special buffet offer at THB 2,600 nett per person (from the regular price of THB 3,060 nett per person)
Private Celebration Option:
For an intimate celebration with family, savor a whole roasted Australian turkey weighing 6 kilograms (pre-cooked weight) served with accompaniments and various sauces. Advance reservation is required, with collection available at Orkid Café on November 23, 2023, from 12:00 to 18:00 hrs. The special price for the whole roasted turkey is THB 8,000.
Reservations and Inquiries:
Secure your seat through LINE SHOP:, email: bkklcdining@marriott.com, or call 02 649 8888.
A Thanksgiving Feast at Goji Kitchen + Bar, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park
Indulge in an exquisite Thanksgiving celebration at Goji Kitchen + Bar, located in the luxurious Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. Immerse yourself in the spirit of gratitude with a sumptuous international buffet and a specially crafted American-style menu.
Thanksgiving Menu Highlights:
Oven-roasted whole turkey served with honey mustard-glazed ham and baked sweet potatoes. Special dishes include salt-crusted salmon, roast duck with stuffing, red wine-braised beef, and a delightful seafood cream soup. Delectable desserts featuring a quartet of pies: pumpkin, pecan, apple, and lemon meringue.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, November 23, 2023
Time: 17:30 – 22:00 hrs
Price: THB 2,229++ per person
Reservations:
Secure your seat through http://sevn.ly/xleV3hkB or visit FB: GojiKitchenAndBar/, and www.gojikitchenbangkok.com.
Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy a 10% discount. If you’re not a member yet, inquire at +66 (0) 2 059 5999 or email: restaurant-reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com.
Thanksgiving Buffet Feast at Trader Vic’s, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
Join us at Trader Vic’s in Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort as we celebrate Thanksgiving with an extravagant international buffet. Indulge in a culinary journey featuring a tantalizing selection of dishes, including digestive-stimulating appetizers, fresh oysters, cold cuts, a cheese bar, and a salad station.
Savor the chef’s specially crafted main course options for this Thanksgiving celebration:
- Turkey Roulade with Mushroom Stuffing, served with mashed butternut squash and apple cider sauce.
- Chilean Sea Bass on White Wine Sauce, garnished with salad greens and butternut buttercream.
- Hakata Wagyu A4 Steak paired with Shishimi Churryu Rum Smoked Sauce, truffle-scented fried potatoes, and more.
Save room for the irresistible Thanksgiving desserts, featuring classics like Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, and Apple Pie.
Details:
Date: Thursday, November 23, 2023
Time: 18:00 onwards
Price: THB 3,299 net per person (beverages not included)
Reservation: Call 02 476 0022
Join us for an unforgettable Thanksgiving evening at Trader Vic’s, where delectable flavors and festive ambiance await you.
International Thanksgiving Buffet at Ventisi, Centara Grand at CentralWorld
Ventisi, located on the 24th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld, invites you to indulge in an international Thanksgiving buffet curated by Chef Andrea Montella. Celebrate the season of gratitude with a feast featuring a highlight of Oven-Roasted Turkey served with cranberry sauce and a variety of delectable Italian-Thai fusion dishes.
Feast on a diverse selection, including:
- Seafood on Ice: lobster, river prawns, mussels, crab claws, and more.
- Sushi and Sashimi Station
- Cold Cuts
- Salads
- Pasta Live Station
- Roasted Prime Ribs
- Cheese Station
- Freshly prepared pasta
Join us for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 18:00 to 22:30. The price is THB 1,590++ per person, and children aged 6–11 dine at THB 795++. Additionally, beverage packages starting from THB 149++ (soft drinks, water, tea, coffee) are available.
Secure your table by calling 02 100 6255 or emailing diningcgcw@chr.co.th. Follow us on Facebook: Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld for updates.
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Volti Grill and Bar, Shangri-La Bangkok
Introduction: Give thanks in style at Volti Grill and Bar, Shangri-La Bangkok, as we present a special menu prepared by Australian chefs and curated by Chef Bruno Ferrari. Whether you choose to dine in or bring the celebration home, our offerings are designed to elevate your Thanksgiving experience.
Special Menu Highlights:
Maple-Glazed Rotisserie Chicken (6 kg) Price: 8,000 THB (net), Porchetta, Chef Bruno’s Signature Dish (3.5 kg), Price: 5,800 THB (net), Honey-Glazed Smoked Ham (4 kg) Price: 5,400 THB (net)
Indulge your sweet tooth with delightful desserts from Pastry Chef Alex:
Apple Pie with Vanilla Custard Price: 1,200 THB (net), Cherry Clafoutis with Vanilla Custard Price: 1,200 THB (net),
Order Details:
- Available from now until November 26, 2566.
- Place your orders online at .
- Please allow a minimum of 48 hours for advance orders.
- For both dine-in and takeaway options, contact us at 02 236 7777 or email restaurants.slbk@shangri-la.com.
- Pickup available at Volti Grill and Bar from 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
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