Was Thanksgiving dinner a disaster last year? Maybe the kitchen set fire or the turkey was overcooked. Did Mom forget the stuffing or drop the pumpkin pie?

There's always so much to do and tons of food to cook, it can be overwhelming.  For those wanting a Thanksgiving feast without having to slave over pots and pans in the kitchen, they are in luck. Several restaurants in the area will be open Thanksgiving Day that offer traditional buffets as well as standard, low-hassle favorites.

Golden Corral, located at 1591 Randall Road in Algonquin, is offering Thanksgiving dinner from 10 a.m. through 7 p.m. The traditional buffet will be open and specialty dishes will include turkey, steaks and pumpkin pie. The dinner costs $11.99 per person for all you can eat and beverages are an extra $1.99. Reservations are not required, but get there early to ensure enough time to eat. Supervisor Mona Khan said, "We were swamped last year." Call 847-658-8899 for more details.

Another local favorite, Port Edward at 20 W. Algonquin Road in Algonquin, offers its annual Thanksgiving brunch buffet. Reservations are strongly recommended and must be scheduled between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., though the restaurant is open until 5 p.m. 

"We were open for the first time in 45 years on Thanksgiving last year to great success of about 400 [people]," said manager Bob Sandidge. The menu will include Port Edward's traditional-style champagne buffet, with whole roast turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. For reservations, call 847-658-5960.

Open from noon to 4 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Wine and Roses, at 1130 S. Main Street in Algonquin, is offering a Thanksgiving buffet as well. "We've been open on Thanksgiving for the last 22 years," said manager John Wesolowski. Reservations are required and special dishes include turkey, ham, top sirloin and pumpkin pie. For reservations, call 847-658-7641.

If you're less interested in the traditional Thanksgiving dinner and just want to eat out, Steak N' Shake at 211 N. Randall Road in Lake in the Hills will be open regular hours from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. No reservations are required and their normal menu, including burgers, sandwiches and melts are available. Call 847-458-7630 for more details.

India Curry House, on 1332 E. Algonquin Road in Algonquin, will be open Thanksgiving Day during its regular hours, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and then 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not required and the menu consists of traditional Indian Food. For details or reservations, call 847-854-7030.