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Best Places To Buy A Thanksgiving Turkey In Orange County

Thanksgiving Turkey 610
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During the holiday season, most Thanksgiving tables are set around one main feature: A turkey carving station. But preparing this challenging main course can be a daunting task, even for the most seasoned chef. Consider the following fine places to purchase your Thanksgiving gobbler in Orange County this year.

thanksgiving turkey raw
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Celestino's Meats Inc.
17th Street Promenade
270 E 17th St #16
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 642-7191
www.celestiinomeats. com

This favorite Costa Mesa haunt has been around for about half a century, and not only does the go-to enterprise sell you the turkey of your dreams, but this smart outfit also offers some of the tastiest fresh jerky and sausage in the Orange County. Even your dog will get his or her perfect Thanksgiving bone from Celestino's, since all are all natural. As for the turkey you've been seeking, take your pick from among a plethora of different variations all ready to eat, including pepper turkey, Italian sweet turkey, maple turkey, and good old oven-roasted turkey. Or, buy one to cook yourself in your own special way.

turkey
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El Toro Gourmet Meats
23522 El Toro Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 855-0215
www.eltoro.com

Put this old school-style meat market that resembles a big red barn on your radar when planning for a free-range turkey run that can't be beaten. In fact, plan on buying that gobbler and some gourmet sides for the annual celebration in November and you're bound to be back in December for more holiday meals, sure to be served with panache.

turkey
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El Gaucho Meat Market
847 S. State College Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92806
(714) 776-6400

If you have your heart set on a deep fried turkey, don't go to all the bother of preparing the bird by yourself. Instead, let the professionals handle the situation by hitting up El Gaucho, a small specialty market that's big on making your Thanksgiving table the best in the West. Order early, as the word is out on this Anaheim treasure. El Gaucho also features a dine-in area, where fresh empanadas hit the spot before or after you pick up your good-to-go gobbler.

Related: Best Places For Fall Colors Near Los Angeles

turkey
(credit: Brent Hofacker/shutterstock)

Gems Meats & Produce
3125 Yorba Linda Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92831
(714) 996-3363
www.gemmeats.com

This Fullerton-based, family-run outfit is keen on Thanksgiving fare, with turkeys to carve that are sure to make the holiday shine as guests beg for seconds and thirds. If you aren't sure how to prepare your pick of bird, don't hesitate to ask the Gems butcher for help in that area, because this particular enterprise has arguably the most helpful staff found in a meat market anywhere in Southern California. They offer great deals, too.

thanksgiving dinner turkey
(credit: Agnes Kantaruk/Shutterstock)

The Butchery
103 E 17th St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(949) 548-6328
www.thebutchery.com

Quality is the byword of this fresh entry into the meat market scene in Orange County. Open since 2014, The Butchery promises no antibiotics, no hormones and no steroids used in their products, which means that turkeys purchased on this scene will surely be sensational. Add to your trimmings by opting for a selection of distinctive artisan cheese sold on the premises and you'll be ready for the celebration of the century.

Related: Best Activities To Do In Fall In Orange County 

Post Author: Jane Lasky.

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