The651.com

Ok, it must be said that not everyone revels in Thanksgiving preparation. Maybe you’ve had a hard week – maybe you’ve had a hard month – maybe the family isn’t within reach this year and slaving away on a giant feast that will most likely be consumed in a quarter of the time it takes to make doesn’t sound like your cup of tea.

Relax. Breathe. Put the turkey baster down. It’s not sacrilegious to want someone else lavish you on Thanksgiving for a change. Luckily, St. Paul has a few star restaurants that are open this holiday and primed to offer up the tastiest of nosh sure to put you in the gracious spirit.

The Lexington 1096 Grand Ave, St. Paul 651.222.5878

Not only is Cathedral Hill’s Victorian-chic restaurant open Thanksgiving day, but it conjures up all the amenities of a traditional holiday dinner, cooking up all your seasonal favorites. Relish in their luxurious décor – crystal chandeliers, ornate mirrors, vivid tapestries and ambient lighting – as you comfort food you way into a decadent holiday. Their turkey dinner includes an appetizer, delicious sides, a main course and a dessert; plus additional entree choices available besides turkey. $25 for adults, $12 for children. Call to reserve and act quick because this popular event tends to sell out quick. For a sneak peak at what’s they’ll be serving up visit http://thelexongrand.com/menu

Faces – 380 Jackson St., St. Paul 651.209.7776

“Crafting fresh, wholesome, comfortable American cuisine, utilizing modern and Old World culinary artistry,” Faces in Mears Park is a local, organic and sustainable-focused dining destination with a unique interior helmed by executive chef David Fhima. Sip on organic, biodynamic or sustainable wine while giving thanks for restaurants that innovatively “keep it local.”

Forepaugh’s – 276 S. Exchange St., St. Paul 651.224.5606

Like dining in a pristine bed & breakfast, Forepaugh’s European continental style puts their twist on classic dishes. Find everything from escargot and brochette of lamb to steaks served up in elegant, a 19^th century setting.

St. Paul Grill – 350 Market St., St. Paul 651.224.7455

Always a favorite, the award-winning St. Paul Grill is a classic standby for traditional fare, exceptional wine and cocktails – including 52 varietials of Scotch – and amazing East Coast grill food.

Matt Thomas (right) and Joe Mauer (left) are probably talking about Saint Paul in this picture

As much fun as we have doing things together as a family, St. Paul offers us a chance to have some fun when just hanging out with friends , without having to leave the area. For me, I rarely even need to leave Grand Avenue.  It’s a street that I consider the perfect locale for a “Split up Session”.  My guy friends and I can find a game on TV at one of the great bars and restaurants.  Or sometimes we just enjoy a beverage on one of the pub patios while our wives check out the what they call “too cute” shops all along Grand.

Matt Thomas and Family

Since St. Paul is my neighborhood, here’s by “Best of” list for spots around town:

Best burger joint-  The Nook

Best place to go have a beer and strike up a conversation at the bar-  Groveland Tap

Best get dressed up and have dinner place-  The Lexington

Best breakfast served til 2:30pm-  The Grandview Grill

Best street to go take the kids for a walk- Along Mississippi River Boulevard

Best place to go sledding-  on the huge hill across from the Town and Country Country Clubhouse

Best summer programs-  St. Paul Parks and Recreation Urban Tennis

Best arena-  Xcel Energy Center (I’ve been to over a hundred different arenas in the country and this is one of the best)

Best way to enjoy the river-  Paddleboat ride from Harriet Island

Best Mom/Dad overnight trip away from the kids-  Saint Paul Hotel with a do not disturb sign

-Matt Thomas is the primary host of Twins baseball coverage on AM1500 KSTP. Listen to him on AM1500 as you drive to the stadium. Look for him broadcasting live from the plaza when you head into the ‘dome.