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T Minus 14

As more of us work longer hours, increasing numbers of restaurants are ready to rescue us from our T-Day time-crunch by serving Thanksgiving Day dinner, either to eat-in or take home. To snag a table, better grab your phone and reserve right now -- only a few neighborhood places take walk-ins, and the more popular the destination, the longer ahead you need to stake your claim. (Many require a credit card number, which will be charged if you're a no-show.) Save this article if you're looking ahead: Most restaurants open on T-Day are likely also to serve meals on Christmas Eve or Day, ditto New Year's, Easter, etc.

The restaurants are arranged by geographical area, so you need not drive long distances while drowsy. I haven't eaten at all of them, so caveat emptor. If there's nothing listed in your area, or you're planning a getaway, nearly all large hotels, resorts, and gambling casinos (not just those listed below) offer Thanksgiving dinners, often as buffets. If you're in a restaurant-starved region, most suburban "family-style" chains (Boston Market, Coco's, Marie Callender's, Mimi's, et al.) will also be serving a holiday menu of their customary quality.

Prices quoted below do not include tip, tax, or beverages unless so noted. "Kiddie prices" generally apply to children 5--12; toddlers usually eat free. While most prices are for multicourse meals or all-you-can-eat buffets, a few buy well-laden entrée plates.

Take-Home Turkeys

Enjoying ready-made feasts at home is a growing option. Choices range from buying a turkey that's more savory than a supermarket-roasted bird on up to purchasing the entire meal. These include:

Barnes BBQ, 2625 Lemon Grove Avenue (at Cypress, tucked in the back of Liquor Mart Square), Lemon Grove, 619-462-9206. BYOBird: Tote a fully thawed raw turkey to the BBQ, and they'll smoke-cook it for you for $1.25 per pound. You can pick it up on Wednesday, along with sides of cornbread, pies, veggies, etc. Call at least a week ahead of T-Day to reserve your smoking time.

Big Jim's (see North Coast, below, for location and phone): Southern-style deep-fried whole turkeys to go, with a full dinner to feed eight for $89, to pick up on Thursday morning. Order by the 18th.

Estancia (see La Jolla): Full turkey feast to go; a whole bird serving 8--10 is $90, a half-bird serving 4--6 is $50, extra pies $15 each. Order by noon, the 18th, pick up on T-day before 3:00 p.m.

Four Seasons Resort Aviara (see North Coast, below): Full feasts to go (10--15 pounds), $210 to serve 4--6, $350 for 7--10. Call 72 hours ahead.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort (see South Bay): "Turkey to Go" full dinner for five, $175; for seven, $225. Reserve 48 hours in advance.

Magnolias, Market Creek Square, 342 Euclid Avenue (off Market Street), Lincoln Park, 619-262-6005: Your choice of a 10--12-pound roast turkey or baked ham, plus four large Southern-style side dishes to feed 8--10 people, price TBA (moderate), for pickup on Wednesday. Call a week ahead to order.

Mardi Gras Café, 3185 Midway Drive, Loma Portal, 619-223-5501: Cajun-style marinated deep-fried turkey, $4.50 per pound ($3.50 per pound if you furnish a thawed bird), pick up on Wednesday or early Thursday morning. They can also furnish Louisiana-style side dishes. Reserve up to the day before.

Pamplemousse Grille (see North Coast, below): Gourmet takeout T-Day dinners for six people or more are available from this famed destination at $50 per person. Order at least 48 hours ahead.

St. Tropez, five locations in Encinitas, Rancho Bernardo, Hillcrest, and downtown, call 858-404-0642 to order: You can get the whole megillah to feed 8--10, $199, or to feed 12--15 at $299. Turkey alone is $75 or $125 by size, and sides only, feeding 15, go for $200. Order 72 hours in advance; pick up Wednesday or Thursday at the restaurant's nearest location, or get delivery to your home for $50 more.

Savory (see North Coast, below): A roasted turkey dinner serving 10--12 is $235 plus tax. Call 72 hours ahead to reserve your feast.

Eat-Out Feasts

North Coast and Gold Coast

Addison, Grand Del Mar, 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar. New luxury restaurant, five-course tasting menu with beef, $95 ($175 with matched wines), eight courses with turkey, $125 ($230 with wines), 4:00--9:00 p.m.

Bellefleur, Carlsbad Company Stores, 5610 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, 760-603-1919. Buffet, $33 adults, $13 kids, noon--6:00 p.m.

Big Jim's Old South Bar-B-Q, 190 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760-635-1166. Southern-style deep-fried turkey dinner, $14, 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.

Chart House, 2588 South Coast Highway 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760-436-4044. Regular à la carte menu, turkey entrée, $24; kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Dining Room at the Inn, Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, in "the Village" on Paseo Delicias, 858-756-1131. Champagne buffet, $52; kids, $21, noon--6:00 p.m.

Encinitas Café, 531 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760-632-0919. Full turkey dinner including dessert, about $13; 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Four Seasons Resort Aviara, 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760-603-3773 for all restaurants. Argyle Café (on golf course), 10:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m. or California Bistro, 10:30 a.m.--8:00 p.m., champagne buffet, $80; kids, $32.50. Vivace Restaurant, deluxe five-course menu with many choices, prices TBA, 5:00--9:30 p.m.

J. Taylor's at L'Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858-793-6460. Buffet meal in elegant inn, $65; kids, $32, noon--8:00 p.m.

Karl Strauss Brewery & Restaurant, 5801 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760-431-2739. Turkey dinner, $20; kids, $10, and regular à la carte menu, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

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La Costa Resort and Spa, 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, La Costa, 760-438-9111. Blue Fire Grill buffet, $60; kids, $25; 20 percent gratuity added; 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m.

Market Restaurant, 3702 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, 858-523-0007. Chef Carl Schroeder (ex-Arterra) in his new restaurant features a three-course dinner, $55, $75 with wines; kids, $25, 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Mille Fleurs, 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858-756-3085. Three-course dinner by renowned chef Martin Woesle, $58, 1:30--7:30 p.m.

Ocean House, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive (at

Highway 101), Carlsbad, 760-729-4131. Champagne-brunch buffet in a historic Victorian seaside mansion (under new ownership), $40; kids, $15, tots, $4; 9:30 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $8.95--$25, 3:30--9:00 p.m.

Pacifica Del Mar, Del Mar Plaza, 1555 Camino Del Mar (at 15th Street), Del Mar, 858-792-0476. Three-course dinner, choice of entrees, $36--$47; kids, $16, noon--9:00 p.m.

Pamplemousse Grille, 514 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858-792-9090. Chef Jeffrey Straus's three-course dinner with choice of entrés, $55; kids' price TBA, 2:00--7:00 p.m.

Paradise Grill, Flower Hill Mall, 2690 Via de la Valle (at I-5 off-ramp), Del Mar, 858-350-0808. Three-course menu, $39; kids ten and under are served a $7--$13 entrée plate; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Poseidon, 1670 Coast Boulevard (at 15th Street), Del Mar, 858-755-9345. À la carte, with turkey entrée and ocean view, prices TBA, 11:00 a.m.--7:30 p.m.

Red Tracton's, 550 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858-755-6600. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $21; for tables of four or more, whole turkey carved at table for $30 per person; kids under 8 free, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Savory, 267 North El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760-634-5556. Chef Pascal Vignau's three-course meal with choice of entrees, $37.50--$43, or à la carte meals, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m.

Silks, Del Mar Hilton, 15575 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar, 858-792-5200. Buffet brunch, $37; kids, $15, 10:00 a.m.--2:00 p.m.

North Inland:

Bernard'O, 12457 Rancho Bernardo Road, Rancho Bernardo, 858-487-7171. Live music, lovely room, three-course dinner with choice of entrée, $19--$30, 12:30--7:00 p.m.

Café Champagne, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-

699-0088. Four courses, choice of entrées, $45; kids, $20, noon--4:30 p.m.

Centre City Café, 2680 South Escondido Boulevard, Escondido, 760-489-6011. Informal atmosphere, affordable ($15 and under). À la carte holiday choices include turkey entrée, 6:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

The Quail Dining Room, 1035 La Bonita Drive, Lake San Marcos, 760-744-2445. Buffet in newly renovated lakeside resort, $35; kids, $11, noon--7:00 p.m. Gordon's at the Green, 1750 San Pablo Drive, Lake San Marcos, 760-744-9385. Buffet, $26 adults, $11 kids, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Rancho Bernardo Inn, 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive (at Rancho Bernardo Road), 858-

675-8500. Ballroom champagne-buffet brunch, $48; kids to age 14, $20; a famously lavish spread, 11:30 a.m.--5:30 p.m. Veranda Bar and Grille, 858-675-8555, three-course meal, $42; kids, $20, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m. El Bizcocho, 858-675-8550, four courses, $68 adult, $105 with matching wines; kids, $20, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Rancho Valencia, 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, 858-759-6216. Four-course meal with several entrée choices in beautiful surroundings, price TBA (about $75); kids, half price, noon--7:00 p.m.

Temet Grill, Temecula Creek Inn, 44501 Rainbow Canyon Road, Temecula, 951-694-1000. Buffet 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m., $43; kids, $18.

Wild Animal Park, Nairobi Pavilion, 760-738-5055 (call 10:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.). Buffet dinner, plus special "kids only" buffet, $30 adults; kids, $18. Seatings at noon and 3:00 p.m., limited to two hours. Reservations required. Free entry to Park for members; nonmembers must pay regular admission.

La Jolla and Golden Triangle:

Arterra, San Diego Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Carmel Valley, 858-369-6032. Three-course seasonal dinner with local-grown produce, choices for each course, $55; kids, $25, noon--8:00 p.m.

A.R. Valentien, Lodge at Torrey Pines, 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-777-6635. Chef Jeff Jackson's three-course holiday dinner, $75; kids, $32.50, noon--9:00 p.m.

Aurora Trattoria, 1025 Prospect Street #250, La Jolla, 858-551-8554. Three-course dinner, $20; kids, $10, noon--8:00 p.m.

Brockton Villa, 1235 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla, 858-454-7393. Dinner with choice of entrées and sides, prices TBA ($47 and up, matched wines about $30 extra); kids, about $17. Seatings at 4:00 and 6:00 p.m.

Estancia La Jolla, 9700 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-550-1000. Chef Jesse Frost (formerly of Prince of Wales) presides over a champagne-brunch buffet, $42.50; kids, $25, seatings 11:00--3:00 p.m.

George's at the Cove, 1250 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-454-4244. Special à la carte menu of chef Trey Foshee's seasonal specials in the dining room, entrées alone $16--$25; more casual, moderately priced menu on the sea-view terrace, 1:00--9:00 p.m.

Jack's La Jolla, 7863 Gerard Avenue, La Jolla, 858-456-8111. Dinner in the Ocean Room and the Dining Room, $45; kids, TBA, call for hours.

Marine Room, 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858-459-7222. Chef Bernard Guillas's à la carte holiday menu with a close-up ocean view and adventurous cuisine, very expensive, 11:30 a.m.--7:30 p.m.

Mediterranean Room, La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect Street (at Herschel), La Jolla, 858-551-0771. Four-course dinner, $65; kids, $32.50; seatings at 11:00 a.m., 1:30, 4:00, and 7:00. p.m.

Nine-Ten, Grande Colonial Hotel, 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-964-5400. Chef Jason Knibb rides the range at a four-course Thanksgiving menu with a choice of entrées, $60 ($80 with matched wines); kids, TBA, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

The Shores, Sea Lodge, 8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, 858-456-0600. Family-friendly seaside atmosphere, buffet $41, kids aged 7--12, $19; under 6, $3, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Top of the Cove, 1216 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-454-7779. À la carte menu, expensive; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Torreyana Grille, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, 10950 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-450-4571. Lavish holiday buffet, $50 including glass of champagne (full bottle, $10); kids, $18, 11:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Mission Valley and the Mesas:

Butcher Shop Steakhouse, 5255 Kearny Villa Road, Kearny Mesa, 858-565-2272. Holiday buffet, $27; kids, $14, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

94th Aero Squadron, 8885 Balboa Avenue, Kearny Mesa, 858-560-6771. Traditional buffet including one glass of champagne in a faux-farmhouse with airport view, $26; kids, $13, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Tickled Trout, Ramada Plaza Hotel, 2151 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, 619-291-6505. Buffet, price TBA (moderate), call for hours.

Valley Kitchen, Mission Valley Resort, 875 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, 619-298-8282. Full holiday dinner, $13; kids, $9, noon--9:00 p.m.

Beaches:

The Atoll, Catamaran Resort Hotel, 3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach, 858-539-8635. Brunch and dinner buffets, $35; kids, $18, 6:30 a.m.--2:00 p.m., and 6:00--10:00 p.m. Brunch includes complimentary paddle-wheeler cruise to Bahia and back.

Bahia Resort Hotel, 998 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Beach, 858-539-7635. Champagne-brunch buffet in ballroom, $37; kids, $19, includes complimentary paddle-wheeler cruise to the Catamaran Resort and back, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Dinner (no cruise) in café, $26; kids, $12, 5:30--10:00 p.m.

Baleen, Paradise Point Resort, 1404 Vacation Road, Mission Bay, 858-490-6363. Brunch buffet in charming resort setting, $59; kids, $27, 11:00 a.m.--6:00 p.m.

Bali Hai, 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-

222-1181. Family ambience, traditional buffet, $25; kids, $15, aged 6 and under $8, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Blue Bay Bistro, the Islandia, 1441 Quivira Road, Mission Beach, 619-221-4810. Buffet, $27; kids, $13, noon--6:00 p.m.

Blue Pearl Restaurant, The Dana on Mission Bay, 1770 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay, 619-222-4198. Marina view, three courses with choice of entrée, $20--$30; kids, $11 for entrée only, noon--8:00 p.m.

Humphrey's by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-224-3577. Champagne brunch with a marina view, $43; kids, $17, 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.

Island Prime, 800 Harbor Island Drive, 619-298-6802: Chef Deborah Scott's three-course menu, $50; kids, $13; two-hour time limit for eating, $100 credit card deposit for reservations; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Jordan (JRDN), 4551 Ocean Boulevard, Pacific Beach, 858-270-5736. Four-course oceanside dinner with choice of entrées, $36; kids, $18, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Kaiserhof, 2253 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard (West Point Loma Boulevard), Ocean Beach, 619-224-0606. Four-course dinner with entrée choice (including goose), bottomless beer glasses, $23--$28, kids' plate $11, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Nick's at the Beach, 809 Thomas Avenue, Pacific Beach, 858-270-1730. Full feast on into the night, price TBA (about $19), 11:00 a.m.--1:00 a.m.

Red Sails Inn, 2614 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-223-3030. Traditional dinner, affordable price TBA (under $20), 11:00 a.m.--11:00 p.m.

Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619-692-2255, X2245. Harbor's Edge, Marina view, newly family-friendly atmosphere, with holiday buffet, $49; kids, $21, noon--8:00 p.m. Alfiere Restaurant, 619-692-2778, elegant three-course champagne brunch, $45; kiddie menu available, 10:00 a.m.--2:00 p.m.

Taylor's, 721 Grand Avenue, Pacific Beach, 858-270-3506. Full Thanksgiving dinner, affordable price TBA (under $20), noon--9:00 p.m.

Thee Bungalow, 4996 West Point Loma Boulevard, Ocean Beach, 619-224-2884. Three-course dinner in cozy cottage, entrée choices include goose, $40; kids, $20, 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Tom Ham's Lighthouse, end of Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619-291-9110. Convivial buffet in newly renovated room, $30; kids, $16, $9 under age 7, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

World Famous, 711 Pacific Beach Drive, Pacific Beach, 858-272-3100. Right on the boardwalk, buffet TBA (about $30); kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Metropolitan San Diego:

Bertrand at Mister A's, 2550 Fifth Avenue, Uptown, 619-239-1377. A spectacular view, and chef Stephan Voitzwinkler's three-course dinner, $49; kids' menu, $25, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Buster's Beach House, 807 West Harbor Drive, Seaport Village, 619-233-4300. Waterfront location, à la carte menu, turkey entrée, $17; kids' plate, $8, 10:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Cafe Pacifica, 2414 San Diego Avenue, Old Town, 619-291-6666. À la carte holiday menu includes turkey entrée, moderate prices (turkey about $21), kids' plates half price, 5:00--9:30 p.m.

El Fandango, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, 2734 Calhoun Street, 619-298-2860. Whole turkey and trimmings to serve four or more, $25; kids, $15 (you take home the leftovers). Smaller parties, $20; kids, $15, noon--5:45 p.m.

Hob Nob Hill, 2271 First Avenue, uptown, 619-239-8176. À la carte holiday menu, with full turkey dinner including dessert, many other entrée choices, about $17; kids, $7.75, 11:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Hornblower Cruises, tickets/

boarding at 1066 North Harbor Drive, downtown, 619-686-8715 (rarely answered); reserve online at www.hornblower.com. Thanksgiving champagne buffet afloat, $67; seniors and military, $65 (ID required); kids, $40, 3:00--6:00 p.m. only.

Imperial House, 505 Kalmia (at Sixth Avenue), Uptown, 619-

234-3525. Four-course dinner by Balboa Park, many entrée choices, $28; kids, $18, 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Jimmy's Restaurant, 3577 Midway Drive, Loma Portal/

Midway, 619-523-1480. À la carte turkey dinners, affordable ($10--$16), discounts for kids and seniors, 6:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m. Reserve for groups larger than four.

Johnny R's, 2611 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park, 619-291-8239. Special menu, à la carte, affordable ($10--$15), plus all-day breakfast, 7:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Lael's Restaurant, Manchester Grand Hyatt, One Market Place, downtown, 619-358-6735. Unlimited champagne buffet, $58, seniors $54; kids, $29, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

LG's Prime Steakhouse, 789 Sixth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-239-7899. Regular steakhouse menu (no turkey), expensive, 5:00--10:00 p.m.

McCormick and Schmick's, Omni Hotel, 675 L Street (at Sixth Avenue), downtown, 619-645-6545. À la carte turkey dinner, $17; kids, $10, plus regular menu items, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Molly's Restaurant, Marriott Hotel, 333 W. Harbor Drive (at Front Street), downtown, 619-230-8909. Four courses with choice of entrées (including vegetarian), $49; kids, $13, 2:00--7:00 p.m.

Ole Madrid, 751 Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-557-0146. Turkey or lobster entrée $10, prime rib $22. Brunch 9:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m., dinner noon--11:00 p.m.

The Palm, 615 J Street, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-702-6500. Four-course dinner, turkey or ham, $50; kids, $22, 5:00--10:00 p.m.

Rei Do Gado, 939 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-702-8464. Brazilian skewer-grilled meats including turkey, plus side dishes. Lunch $23.75, dinner $40; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--9:45 p.m.

Samba Grill, top level, Horton Plaza, 510 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp District, 619-236-1000. T-Day with Brazilian skewered meats and sides. Lunch, $14, dinner, $35, "churrasco feast" $44, side dishes only, $11 at lunch, $20 at dinner. Children to age 9, half price; aged 4 and under, $3. 11:00 a.m.--10:00 p.m.

San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, SD, 619-557-3964. Albert's Restaurant, three-course dinner with choices including vegetarian entrée, $25; kids, $13, maximum party of six people; noon--5:00 p.m. Treetops Dining Room, buffet including free-range turkey, $30; kids, $18, seatings at noon, 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. Reservations required. Zoo entry free for Zoo members, regular charge for nonmembers.

Sevilla, 555 4th Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-233-5979. Three-course traditional holiday dinner with Spanish touches, choice of entrées, $25; kids, $13, 5:00--11:00 p.m.

Terra, 1270 Cleveland Avenue, Hillcrest, 619-293-7088. Three-course holiday dinner with main course choices, including vegetarian entrée, $39; kids, $12, seatings at 12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30 p.m.

Westgate Hotel, 1055 Second Avenue, downtown, 619-557-3655 for any of the three venues. Le Fontainebleau offers a four-course formal meal in a formal setting, with choice of entrée, $59--$79; kids, half price, 5:30--10:00 p.m. The Versailles Ballroom's buffet features live entertainment, $59; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Café Westgate holiday dinner with choices of entrées, $49; kids, half price, 11:30 a.m.--10:00 p.m.

Coronado and South Bay:

Cafe La Maze, 1441 Highland Avenue, National City, 619-474-3222. Very popular community spot serving four courses for $16, 11:00 a.m.--11:00 p.m.

Coronado Boathouse 1887, 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619-435-0155. All-you-can-eat dinner with choice of entrées, $29; kids, $13, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, 619-522-8490. Holiday buffets in both the Ballroom and the gorgeous Crown Room, $75; kids, $34, noon--6:00 p.m. 1500 Ocean, multicourse meal, $68--$82; kids, $34, 4:00--9:00 p.m. Sheerwater, open normal hours, regular menu.

L'Escale, Coronado Island Marriott, 2000 Second Street, Coronado, 619-522-3150. Brunch buffet, $45; kids, $20, 11:30 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort, 4000 Coronado Bay Road, Silver Strand, Coronado, 619-424-4000. Azzura Point's three-

course dinner, $55; four-course feast, $65; regular "healthy menu" for kids, $15; 5:00--9:00 p.m. Market Cafe, family atmosphere, brunch buffet, $52; kids, $24; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Peohe's, Ferry Landing Marketplace, 1201 First Street, Coronado, 619-437-4474. Waterfront view, tropical decor, special holiday menu and à la carte, including turkey dinner, $26; kid portion, $10, 11:30 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Romesco, 4346 Bonita Road, Bonita, 619-475-8627. Elegant Old World ambiance at this new, highly reputed spin-off of Tijuana's Saverio's, serving a Baja-Mediterranean T-day feast. Call for hours and prices.

East County and Far East

Alpine Bread Basket, 1347 Tavern Road, Alpine, 619-445-0706. Whole turkey and full dinner for a group of four, $60, plus $13 each additional person. Turkey breast or prime rib entrées, $13--$17; kids, $8, 11:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Rongbranch Restaurant, 2722 Washington Street, Julian, 760-765-2265. À la carte, entrées $9--$13, 10:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Singing Hills Country Club, 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon, 619-442-3425 X5430. Buffet, $35; kids, $15, noon--5:00 p.m.

Village Garden, 8384 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa, 619-462-9100. All-you-can-eat turkey or ham dinner, $16; kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--6:00 p.m.

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As more of us work longer hours, increasing numbers of restaurants are ready to rescue us from our T-Day time-crunch by serving Thanksgiving Day dinner, either to eat-in or take home. To snag a table, better grab your phone and reserve right now -- only a few neighborhood places take walk-ins, and the more popular the destination, the longer ahead you need to stake your claim. (Many require a credit card number, which will be charged if you're a no-show.) Save this article if you're looking ahead: Most restaurants open on T-Day are likely also to serve meals on Christmas Eve or Day, ditto New Year's, Easter, etc.

The restaurants are arranged by geographical area, so you need not drive long distances while drowsy. I haven't eaten at all of them, so caveat emptor. If there's nothing listed in your area, or you're planning a getaway, nearly all large hotels, resorts, and gambling casinos (not just those listed below) offer Thanksgiving dinners, often as buffets. If you're in a restaurant-starved region, most suburban "family-style" chains (Boston Market, Coco's, Marie Callender's, Mimi's, et al.) will also be serving a holiday menu of their customary quality.

Prices quoted below do not include tip, tax, or beverages unless so noted. "Kiddie prices" generally apply to children 5--12; toddlers usually eat free. While most prices are for multicourse meals or all-you-can-eat buffets, a few buy well-laden entrée plates.

Take-Home Turkeys

Enjoying ready-made feasts at home is a growing option. Choices range from buying a turkey that's more savory than a supermarket-roasted bird on up to purchasing the entire meal. These include:

Barnes BBQ, 2625 Lemon Grove Avenue (at Cypress, tucked in the back of Liquor Mart Square), Lemon Grove, 619-462-9206. BYOBird: Tote a fully thawed raw turkey to the BBQ, and they'll smoke-cook it for you for $1.25 per pound. You can pick it up on Wednesday, along with sides of cornbread, pies, veggies, etc. Call at least a week ahead of T-Day to reserve your smoking time.

Big Jim's (see North Coast, below, for location and phone): Southern-style deep-fried whole turkeys to go, with a full dinner to feed eight for $89, to pick up on Thursday morning. Order by the 18th.

Estancia (see La Jolla): Full turkey feast to go; a whole bird serving 8--10 is $90, a half-bird serving 4--6 is $50, extra pies $15 each. Order by noon, the 18th, pick up on T-day before 3:00 p.m.

Four Seasons Resort Aviara (see North Coast, below): Full feasts to go (10--15 pounds), $210 to serve 4--6, $350 for 7--10. Call 72 hours ahead.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort (see South Bay): "Turkey to Go" full dinner for five, $175; for seven, $225. Reserve 48 hours in advance.

Magnolias, Market Creek Square, 342 Euclid Avenue (off Market Street), Lincoln Park, 619-262-6005: Your choice of a 10--12-pound roast turkey or baked ham, plus four large Southern-style side dishes to feed 8--10 people, price TBA (moderate), for pickup on Wednesday. Call a week ahead to order.

Mardi Gras Café, 3185 Midway Drive, Loma Portal, 619-223-5501: Cajun-style marinated deep-fried turkey, $4.50 per pound ($3.50 per pound if you furnish a thawed bird), pick up on Wednesday or early Thursday morning. They can also furnish Louisiana-style side dishes. Reserve up to the day before.

Pamplemousse Grille (see North Coast, below): Gourmet takeout T-Day dinners for six people or more are available from this famed destination at $50 per person. Order at least 48 hours ahead.

St. Tropez, five locations in Encinitas, Rancho Bernardo, Hillcrest, and downtown, call 858-404-0642 to order: You can get the whole megillah to feed 8--10, $199, or to feed 12--15 at $299. Turkey alone is $75 or $125 by size, and sides only, feeding 15, go for $200. Order 72 hours in advance; pick up Wednesday or Thursday at the restaurant's nearest location, or get delivery to your home for $50 more.

Savory (see North Coast, below): A roasted turkey dinner serving 10--12 is $235 plus tax. Call 72 hours ahead to reserve your feast.

Eat-Out Feasts

North Coast and Gold Coast

Addison, Grand Del Mar, 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar. New luxury restaurant, five-course tasting menu with beef, $95 ($175 with matched wines), eight courses with turkey, $125 ($230 with wines), 4:00--9:00 p.m.

Bellefleur, Carlsbad Company Stores, 5610 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, 760-603-1919. Buffet, $33 adults, $13 kids, noon--6:00 p.m.

Big Jim's Old South Bar-B-Q, 190 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760-635-1166. Southern-style deep-fried turkey dinner, $14, 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.

Chart House, 2588 South Coast Highway 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760-436-4044. Regular à la carte menu, turkey entrée, $24; kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Dining Room at the Inn, Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, in "the Village" on Paseo Delicias, 858-756-1131. Champagne buffet, $52; kids, $21, noon--6:00 p.m.

Encinitas Café, 531 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760-632-0919. Full turkey dinner including dessert, about $13; 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Four Seasons Resort Aviara, 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760-603-3773 for all restaurants. Argyle Café (on golf course), 10:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m. or California Bistro, 10:30 a.m.--8:00 p.m., champagne buffet, $80; kids, $32.50. Vivace Restaurant, deluxe five-course menu with many choices, prices TBA, 5:00--9:30 p.m.

J. Taylor's at L'Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858-793-6460. Buffet meal in elegant inn, $65; kids, $32, noon--8:00 p.m.

Karl Strauss Brewery & Restaurant, 5801 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760-431-2739. Turkey dinner, $20; kids, $10, and regular à la carte menu, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

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La Costa Resort and Spa, 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, La Costa, 760-438-9111. Blue Fire Grill buffet, $60; kids, $25; 20 percent gratuity added; 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m.

Market Restaurant, 3702 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, 858-523-0007. Chef Carl Schroeder (ex-Arterra) in his new restaurant features a three-course dinner, $55, $75 with wines; kids, $25, 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Mille Fleurs, 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858-756-3085. Three-course dinner by renowned chef Martin Woesle, $58, 1:30--7:30 p.m.

Ocean House, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive (at

Highway 101), Carlsbad, 760-729-4131. Champagne-brunch buffet in a historic Victorian seaside mansion (under new ownership), $40; kids, $15, tots, $4; 9:30 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $8.95--$25, 3:30--9:00 p.m.

Pacifica Del Mar, Del Mar Plaza, 1555 Camino Del Mar (at 15th Street), Del Mar, 858-792-0476. Three-course dinner, choice of entrees, $36--$47; kids, $16, noon--9:00 p.m.

Pamplemousse Grille, 514 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858-792-9090. Chef Jeffrey Straus's three-course dinner with choice of entrés, $55; kids' price TBA, 2:00--7:00 p.m.

Paradise Grill, Flower Hill Mall, 2690 Via de la Valle (at I-5 off-ramp), Del Mar, 858-350-0808. Three-course menu, $39; kids ten and under are served a $7--$13 entrée plate; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Poseidon, 1670 Coast Boulevard (at 15th Street), Del Mar, 858-755-9345. À la carte, with turkey entrée and ocean view, prices TBA, 11:00 a.m.--7:30 p.m.

Red Tracton's, 550 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858-755-6600. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $21; for tables of four or more, whole turkey carved at table for $30 per person; kids under 8 free, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Savory, 267 North El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760-634-5556. Chef Pascal Vignau's three-course meal with choice of entrees, $37.50--$43, or à la carte meals, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m.

Silks, Del Mar Hilton, 15575 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar, 858-792-5200. Buffet brunch, $37; kids, $15, 10:00 a.m.--2:00 p.m.

North Inland:

Bernard'O, 12457 Rancho Bernardo Road, Rancho Bernardo, 858-487-7171. Live music, lovely room, three-course dinner with choice of entrée, $19--$30, 12:30--7:00 p.m.

Café Champagne, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-

699-0088. Four courses, choice of entrées, $45; kids, $20, noon--4:30 p.m.

Centre City Café, 2680 South Escondido Boulevard, Escondido, 760-489-6011. Informal atmosphere, affordable ($15 and under). À la carte holiday choices include turkey entrée, 6:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

The Quail Dining Room, 1035 La Bonita Drive, Lake San Marcos, 760-744-2445. Buffet in newly renovated lakeside resort, $35; kids, $11, noon--7:00 p.m. Gordon's at the Green, 1750 San Pablo Drive, Lake San Marcos, 760-744-9385. Buffet, $26 adults, $11 kids, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Rancho Bernardo Inn, 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive (at Rancho Bernardo Road), 858-

675-8500. Ballroom champagne-buffet brunch, $48; kids to age 14, $20; a famously lavish spread, 11:30 a.m.--5:30 p.m. Veranda Bar and Grille, 858-675-8555, three-course meal, $42; kids, $20, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m. El Bizcocho, 858-675-8550, four courses, $68 adult, $105 with matching wines; kids, $20, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Rancho Valencia, 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, 858-759-6216. Four-course meal with several entrée choices in beautiful surroundings, price TBA (about $75); kids, half price, noon--7:00 p.m.

Temet Grill, Temecula Creek Inn, 44501 Rainbow Canyon Road, Temecula, 951-694-1000. Buffet 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m., $43; kids, $18.

Wild Animal Park, Nairobi Pavilion, 760-738-5055 (call 10:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.). Buffet dinner, plus special "kids only" buffet, $30 adults; kids, $18. Seatings at noon and 3:00 p.m., limited to two hours. Reservations required. Free entry to Park for members; nonmembers must pay regular admission.

La Jolla and Golden Triangle:

Arterra, San Diego Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Carmel Valley, 858-369-6032. Three-course seasonal dinner with local-grown produce, choices for each course, $55; kids, $25, noon--8:00 p.m.

A.R. Valentien, Lodge at Torrey Pines, 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-777-6635. Chef Jeff Jackson's three-course holiday dinner, $75; kids, $32.50, noon--9:00 p.m.

Aurora Trattoria, 1025 Prospect Street #250, La Jolla, 858-551-8554. Three-course dinner, $20; kids, $10, noon--8:00 p.m.

Brockton Villa, 1235 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla, 858-454-7393. Dinner with choice of entrées and sides, prices TBA ($47 and up, matched wines about $30 extra); kids, about $17. Seatings at 4:00 and 6:00 p.m.

Estancia La Jolla, 9700 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-550-1000. Chef Jesse Frost (formerly of Prince of Wales) presides over a champagne-brunch buffet, $42.50; kids, $25, seatings 11:00--3:00 p.m.

George's at the Cove, 1250 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-454-4244. Special à la carte menu of chef Trey Foshee's seasonal specials in the dining room, entrées alone $16--$25; more casual, moderately priced menu on the sea-view terrace, 1:00--9:00 p.m.

Jack's La Jolla, 7863 Gerard Avenue, La Jolla, 858-456-8111. Dinner in the Ocean Room and the Dining Room, $45; kids, TBA, call for hours.

Marine Room, 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858-459-7222. Chef Bernard Guillas's à la carte holiday menu with a close-up ocean view and adventurous cuisine, very expensive, 11:30 a.m.--7:30 p.m.

Mediterranean Room, La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect Street (at Herschel), La Jolla, 858-551-0771. Four-course dinner, $65; kids, $32.50; seatings at 11:00 a.m., 1:30, 4:00, and 7:00. p.m.

Nine-Ten, Grande Colonial Hotel, 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-964-5400. Chef Jason Knibb rides the range at a four-course Thanksgiving menu with a choice of entrées, $60 ($80 with matched wines); kids, TBA, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

The Shores, Sea Lodge, 8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, 858-456-0600. Family-friendly seaside atmosphere, buffet $41, kids aged 7--12, $19; under 6, $3, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Top of the Cove, 1216 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858-454-7779. À la carte menu, expensive; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Torreyana Grille, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, 10950 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858-450-4571. Lavish holiday buffet, $50 including glass of champagne (full bottle, $10); kids, $18, 11:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Mission Valley and the Mesas:

Butcher Shop Steakhouse, 5255 Kearny Villa Road, Kearny Mesa, 858-565-2272. Holiday buffet, $27; kids, $14, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

94th Aero Squadron, 8885 Balboa Avenue, Kearny Mesa, 858-560-6771. Traditional buffet including one glass of champagne in a faux-farmhouse with airport view, $26; kids, $13, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Tickled Trout, Ramada Plaza Hotel, 2151 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, 619-291-6505. Buffet, price TBA (moderate), call for hours.

Valley Kitchen, Mission Valley Resort, 875 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, 619-298-8282. Full holiday dinner, $13; kids, $9, noon--9:00 p.m.

Beaches:

The Atoll, Catamaran Resort Hotel, 3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach, 858-539-8635. Brunch and dinner buffets, $35; kids, $18, 6:30 a.m.--2:00 p.m., and 6:00--10:00 p.m. Brunch includes complimentary paddle-wheeler cruise to Bahia and back.

Bahia Resort Hotel, 998 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Beach, 858-539-7635. Champagne-brunch buffet in ballroom, $37; kids, $19, includes complimentary paddle-wheeler cruise to the Catamaran Resort and back, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Dinner (no cruise) in café, $26; kids, $12, 5:30--10:00 p.m.

Baleen, Paradise Point Resort, 1404 Vacation Road, Mission Bay, 858-490-6363. Brunch buffet in charming resort setting, $59; kids, $27, 11:00 a.m.--6:00 p.m.

Bali Hai, 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-

222-1181. Family ambience, traditional buffet, $25; kids, $15, aged 6 and under $8, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

Blue Bay Bistro, the Islandia, 1441 Quivira Road, Mission Beach, 619-221-4810. Buffet, $27; kids, $13, noon--6:00 p.m.

Blue Pearl Restaurant, The Dana on Mission Bay, 1770 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay, 619-222-4198. Marina view, three courses with choice of entrée, $20--$30; kids, $11 for entrée only, noon--8:00 p.m.

Humphrey's by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-224-3577. Champagne brunch with a marina view, $43; kids, $17, 11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m.

Island Prime, 800 Harbor Island Drive, 619-298-6802: Chef Deborah Scott's three-course menu, $50; kids, $13; two-hour time limit for eating, $100 credit card deposit for reservations; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Jordan (JRDN), 4551 Ocean Boulevard, Pacific Beach, 858-270-5736. Four-course oceanside dinner with choice of entrées, $36; kids, $18, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Kaiserhof, 2253 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard (West Point Loma Boulevard), Ocean Beach, 619-224-0606. Four-course dinner with entrée choice (including goose), bottomless beer glasses, $23--$28, kids' plate $11, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Nick's at the Beach, 809 Thomas Avenue, Pacific Beach, 858-270-1730. Full feast on into the night, price TBA (about $19), 11:00 a.m.--1:00 a.m.

Red Sails Inn, 2614 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619-223-3030. Traditional dinner, affordable price TBA (under $20), 11:00 a.m.--11:00 p.m.

Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619-692-2255, X2245. Harbor's Edge, Marina view, newly family-friendly atmosphere, with holiday buffet, $49; kids, $21, noon--8:00 p.m. Alfiere Restaurant, 619-692-2778, elegant three-course champagne brunch, $45; kiddie menu available, 10:00 a.m.--2:00 p.m.

Taylor's, 721 Grand Avenue, Pacific Beach, 858-270-3506. Full Thanksgiving dinner, affordable price TBA (under $20), noon--9:00 p.m.

Thee Bungalow, 4996 West Point Loma Boulevard, Ocean Beach, 619-224-2884. Three-course dinner in cozy cottage, entrée choices include goose, $40; kids, $20, 1:00--8:00 p.m.

Tom Ham's Lighthouse, end of Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619-291-9110. Convivial buffet in newly renovated room, $30; kids, $16, $9 under age 7, 11:30 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

World Famous, 711 Pacific Beach Drive, Pacific Beach, 858-272-3100. Right on the boardwalk, buffet TBA (about $30); kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Metropolitan San Diego:

Bertrand at Mister A's, 2550 Fifth Avenue, Uptown, 619-239-1377. A spectacular view, and chef Stephan Voitzwinkler's three-course dinner, $49; kids' menu, $25, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Buster's Beach House, 807 West Harbor Drive, Seaport Village, 619-233-4300. Waterfront location, à la carte menu, turkey entrée, $17; kids' plate, $8, 10:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Cafe Pacifica, 2414 San Diego Avenue, Old Town, 619-291-6666. À la carte holiday menu includes turkey entrée, moderate prices (turkey about $21), kids' plates half price, 5:00--9:30 p.m.

El Fandango, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, 2734 Calhoun Street, 619-298-2860. Whole turkey and trimmings to serve four or more, $25; kids, $15 (you take home the leftovers). Smaller parties, $20; kids, $15, noon--5:45 p.m.

Hob Nob Hill, 2271 First Avenue, uptown, 619-239-8176. À la carte holiday menu, with full turkey dinner including dessert, many other entrée choices, about $17; kids, $7.75, 11:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Hornblower Cruises, tickets/

boarding at 1066 North Harbor Drive, downtown, 619-686-8715 (rarely answered); reserve online at www.hornblower.com. Thanksgiving champagne buffet afloat, $67; seniors and military, $65 (ID required); kids, $40, 3:00--6:00 p.m. only.

Imperial House, 505 Kalmia (at Sixth Avenue), Uptown, 619-

234-3525. Four-course dinner by Balboa Park, many entrée choices, $28; kids, $18, 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Jimmy's Restaurant, 3577 Midway Drive, Loma Portal/

Midway, 619-523-1480. À la carte turkey dinners, affordable ($10--$16), discounts for kids and seniors, 6:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m. Reserve for groups larger than four.

Johnny R's, 2611 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park, 619-291-8239. Special menu, à la carte, affordable ($10--$15), plus all-day breakfast, 7:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Lael's Restaurant, Manchester Grand Hyatt, One Market Place, downtown, 619-358-6735. Unlimited champagne buffet, $58, seniors $54; kids, $29, 11:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m.

LG's Prime Steakhouse, 789 Sixth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-239-7899. Regular steakhouse menu (no turkey), expensive, 5:00--10:00 p.m.

McCormick and Schmick's, Omni Hotel, 675 L Street (at Sixth Avenue), downtown, 619-645-6545. À la carte turkey dinner, $17; kids, $10, plus regular menu items, 11:00 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Molly's Restaurant, Marriott Hotel, 333 W. Harbor Drive (at Front Street), downtown, 619-230-8909. Four courses with choice of entrées (including vegetarian), $49; kids, $13, 2:00--7:00 p.m.

Ole Madrid, 751 Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-557-0146. Turkey or lobster entrée $10, prime rib $22. Brunch 9:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m., dinner noon--11:00 p.m.

The Palm, 615 J Street, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-702-6500. Four-course dinner, turkey or ham, $50; kids, $22, 5:00--10:00 p.m.

Rei Do Gado, 939 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-702-8464. Brazilian skewer-grilled meats including turkey, plus side dishes. Lunch $23.75, dinner $40; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--9:45 p.m.

Samba Grill, top level, Horton Plaza, 510 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp District, 619-236-1000. T-Day with Brazilian skewered meats and sides. Lunch, $14, dinner, $35, "churrasco feast" $44, side dishes only, $11 at lunch, $20 at dinner. Children to age 9, half price; aged 4 and under, $3. 11:00 a.m.--10:00 p.m.

San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, SD, 619-557-3964. Albert's Restaurant, three-course dinner with choices including vegetarian entrée, $25; kids, $13, maximum party of six people; noon--5:00 p.m. Treetops Dining Room, buffet including free-range turkey, $30; kids, $18, seatings at noon, 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. Reservations required. Zoo entry free for Zoo members, regular charge for nonmembers.

Sevilla, 555 4th Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, 619-233-5979. Three-course traditional holiday dinner with Spanish touches, choice of entrées, $25; kids, $13, 5:00--11:00 p.m.

Terra, 1270 Cleveland Avenue, Hillcrest, 619-293-7088. Three-course holiday dinner with main course choices, including vegetarian entrée, $39; kids, $12, seatings at 12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30 p.m.

Westgate Hotel, 1055 Second Avenue, downtown, 619-557-3655 for any of the three venues. Le Fontainebleau offers a four-course formal meal in a formal setting, with choice of entrée, $59--$79; kids, half price, 5:30--10:00 p.m. The Versailles Ballroom's buffet features live entertainment, $59; kids, half price, 11:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. Café Westgate holiday dinner with choices of entrées, $49; kids, half price, 11:30 a.m.--10:00 p.m.

Coronado and South Bay:

Cafe La Maze, 1441 Highland Avenue, National City, 619-474-3222. Very popular community spot serving four courses for $16, 11:00 a.m.--11:00 p.m.

Coronado Boathouse 1887, 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619-435-0155. All-you-can-eat dinner with choice of entrées, $29; kids, $13, 2:00--8:00 p.m.

Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, 619-522-8490. Holiday buffets in both the Ballroom and the gorgeous Crown Room, $75; kids, $34, noon--6:00 p.m. 1500 Ocean, multicourse meal, $68--$82; kids, $34, 4:00--9:00 p.m. Sheerwater, open normal hours, regular menu.

L'Escale, Coronado Island Marriott, 2000 Second Street, Coronado, 619-522-3150. Brunch buffet, $45; kids, $20, 11:30 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort, 4000 Coronado Bay Road, Silver Strand, Coronado, 619-424-4000. Azzura Point's three-

course dinner, $55; four-course feast, $65; regular "healthy menu" for kids, $15; 5:00--9:00 p.m. Market Cafe, family atmosphere, brunch buffet, $52; kids, $24; 1:00--7:00 p.m.

Peohe's, Ferry Landing Marketplace, 1201 First Street, Coronado, 619-437-4474. Waterfront view, tropical decor, special holiday menu and à la carte, including turkey dinner, $26; kid portion, $10, 11:30 a.m.--8:00 p.m.

Romesco, 4346 Bonita Road, Bonita, 619-475-8627. Elegant Old World ambiance at this new, highly reputed spin-off of Tijuana's Saverio's, serving a Baja-Mediterranean T-day feast. Call for hours and prices.

East County and Far East

Alpine Bread Basket, 1347 Tavern Road, Alpine, 619-445-0706. Whole turkey and full dinner for a group of four, $60, plus $13 each additional person. Turkey breast or prime rib entrées, $13--$17; kids, $8, 11:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m.

Rongbranch Restaurant, 2722 Washington Street, Julian, 760-765-2265. À la carte, entrées $9--$13, 10:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m.

Singing Hills Country Club, 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon, 619-442-3425 X5430. Buffet, $35; kids, $15, noon--5:00 p.m.

Village Garden, 8384 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa, 619-462-9100. All-you-can-eat turkey or ham dinner, $16; kids, $10, 11:00 a.m.--6:00 p.m.

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