Your Guide to Thanksgiving Dining and Take-Out Near NOVEL Parkway Apartments in Sanford, FL



Thanksgiving in Sanford, Florida, feels like something out of a postcard, warm sunshine, a crisp breeze, and the scent of home-cooked food filling the air. For residents of NOVEL Parkway, one of the best apartment complexes in Sanford, FL, this season is the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and community.

Whether you’re planning to host a cozy dinner in your apartment, enjoy a night out, or grab a take-out feast from a local favorite, there’s no shortage of Thanksgiving dining options right near NOVEL Parkway.

Living in a modern apartment complex in Sanford, FL means everything you need, from top-rated restaurants to scenic walking trails, is right around the corner. This guide will help you discover the best local spots to celebrate Thanksgiving 2025, without having to venture far from home.

Thanksgiving Dining in Sanford, Florida

Sanford’s restaurant scene is vibrant and welcoming, offering something for every taste. Here are a few of the best options near NOVEL Parkway Apartments, each offering a memorable dining experience for the holiday season.

St. Johns River Steak & Seafood

Just a ten-minute drive from NOVEL Parkway, St. Johns River Steak & Seafood serves up Thanksgiving with a view. This restaurant sits along the scenic St. Johns River and is known for fresh seafood, tender steaks, and a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

Past Thanksgiving menus have featured roasted turkey, prime rib, and classic side dishes, perfect for those who want to skip the cooking but still enjoy a traditional feast. The restaurant’s location makes it a great post-dinner walk destination too.

Pro Tip: Make reservations early. The waterfront tables fill up fast during the holidays. 

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The Vineyard Wine Company

Located near Lake Mary, The Vineyard Wine Company brings an upscale twist to Thanksgiving. Known for its chef-crafted seasonal dishes and impressive wine list, it’s ideal for couples or small gatherings.

Here, you can celebrate Thanksgiving with perfectly paired wines, locally sourced produce, and a calm, sophisticated setting, all within 10 minutes of NOVEL Parkway Apartments in Sanford.

Mr. & Mrs. Crab – Sanford

If turkey isn’t your thing, Mr. & Mrs. Crab is the perfect alternative. This popular spot near NOVEL Parkway serves up Cajun-style seafood boils filled with shrimp, crab, corn, and potatoes, bold flavors that make for a fun, social dining experience.

It’s a favorite among locals who want something lively and different from the traditional Thanksgiving meal. Plus, it’s less than five minutes from your apartment, making it a convenient and tasty option.

LongHorn Steakhouse

For residents of NOVEL Parkway Apartments in Sanford, FL, LongHorn Steakhouse offers a reliable, family-friendly dining option. Enjoy juicy steaks, classic sides, and their signature bread, all in a warm, casual setting.

They’re open limited hours during the holidays, so plan ahead if you want to enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving dinner close to home.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Few places capture the heart of Thanksgiving like Cracker Barrel. Located just minutes from NOVEL Parkway, this local favorite serves up a special Heat n’ Serve Family Meal that includes roasted turkey, cornbread dressing, gravy, cranberry relish, and pumpkin pie.

Whether you dine in or pick up to-go, it’s a simple way to enjoy a complete, comforting Thanksgiving dinner without the cleanup.

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Take-Out and Catering Options Near NOVEL Parkway

Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner in your apartment for rent in Sanford, FL doesn’t have to be stressful. These local take-out and catering options make it easy to serve a delicious holiday meal right in your kitchen.

The Honey Baked Ham Company

Located nearby on WP Ball Boulevard, The Honey Baked Ham Company is a holiday classic. From spiral-cut hams to roasted turkey breasts and signature sides, this store makes Thanksgiving entertaining effortless.

Perfect for smaller gatherings, each dish is ready to heat and serve, saving you hours in the kitchen. Residents of NOVEL Parkway, one of the best apartment complexes in Sanford, love the convenience of picking up a complete holiday meal just minutes from home.

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Angel’s Soul Food & BBQ

Craving something flavorful and Southern? Angel’s Soul Food & BBQ has you covered. Known for their smoked turkey, barbecue ribs, mac and cheese, and collard greens, their take-out meals are hearty, comforting, and ideal for Thanksgiving.

It’s a great option if you want that home-cooked feel without the prep work. Simply order in advance, pick up your meal, and enjoy with friends or family in your spacious 2-bedroom apartment in Sanford, FL.

Publix Super Market at Lake Forest

Publix is another reliable option for no-fuss Thanksgiving dinners. They offer full meal bundles featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and dessert, all prepped and ready to heat.

Located about 4 minutes from NOVEL Parkway, Publix’s holiday meal kits are perfect for residents looking to host a cozy dinner right in their 3-bedroom apartment in Sanford, FL, or to enjoy a quiet Thanksgiving for two.

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Dessert and Coffee Stops in Sanford

After your meal, you’ll want something sweet, and Sanford’s local bakeries have plenty to offer. From pumpkin pie to pecan tarts, you can find handmade desserts at downtown favorites like Magnolia Square Market or grab a slice from one of the city’s charming cafés.

A few local dessert spots worth checking out include:

  • Wondermade – Known for artisan marshmallows and creative treats.

  • The Tennessee Truffle – A small bistro offering seasonal desserts.

  • The Corner Café – Cozy spot with great coffee and pies.

Supporting local bakeries adds a personal touch to your Thanksgiving table and helps the community thrive.

Things To Do in Sanford After Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving weekend isn’t just about food, it’s also a great time to explore Sanford’s scenic outdoors and lively downtown.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of the long weekend:

  • Walk the Sanford RiverWalk: A beautiful trail along Lake Monroe, perfect for an afternoon stroll.

  • Visit Downtown Sanford: Explore local shops, galleries, and breweries decorated for the holidays.

  • Take a River Cruise: The St. Johns Rivership Company offers relaxing cruises, a fun, unique post-Thanksgiving activity.

These nearby destinations are part of what makes living at NOVEL Parkway, one of the best apartment complexes in Sanford, so enjoyable, everything is within easy reach.

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Hosting Thanksgiving at NOVEL Parkway

If you’re planning to stay in, NOVEL Parkway’s beautifully designed apartments make entertaining simple and enjoyable.

Each home features spacious kitchens, open layouts, and modern finishes, ideal for hosting guests or preparing your own holiday meal.

Here are a few tips for hosting Thanksgiving in your apartment:

  1. Plan your menu ahead of time. Order from local favorites like Honey Baked Ham or Angel’s BBQ.

  2. Use your kitchen island as a buffet station. Perfect for serving family-style.

  3. Add fall décor. Candles, small pumpkins, and table runners can instantly make your space feel festive.

  4. Use your balcony for dessert. Sanford’s mild November weather makes it a great spot for after-dinner coffee and pie.

NOVEL Parkway’s community spaces also offer great spots for Friendsgiving gatherings or casual dessert parties with neighbors, creating opportunities to connect and celebrate.

Why Residents Love NOVEL Parkway in Sanford, FL

Living at NOVEL Parkway Apartments means more than just having a place to live, it’s about being part of Sanford’s growing and connected community.

Located conveniently between Lake Mary and historic downtown Sanford, NOVEL Parkway offers residents:

  • Modern floor plans, including 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments

  • Resort-style amenities

  • Easy access to top-rated restaurants, parks, and shopping

  • A peaceful environment minutes from Orlando’s attractions

It’s easy to see why NOVEL Parkway is considered one of the best apartment complexes in Sanford, FL. The combination of luxury, location, and lifestyle makes it the perfect home base for enjoying holidays like Thanksgiving and everything else the city has to offer.

Plan Your Thanksgiving, Explore Sanford, and Discover NOVEL Parkway

This Thanksgiving celebrate how convenient and connected life can be in Sanford. From waterfront dining at St. Johns River Steak & Seafood to classic take-out from Cracker Barrel or Honey Baked Ham, everything you need for a memorable holiday is just minutes from your door at NOVEL Parkway.

If you’re searching for a modern apartment complex in Sanford, Florida, schedule a tour of NOVEL Parkway to experience luxury living, community connection, and effortless convenience, all in one place.

Visit www.novelparkway.com to learn more about current availability for 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments in Sanford, FL, and see firsthand why residents love calling NOVEL Parkway home.