U.S. Thanksgiving dinner at DBGB

The rustic open shelves display the copper pots used by famous chefs around the world

DBGB is chef Daniel Boulud's more casual of his renowned NYC restos. Named after the now shuttered CBGB, the soundtrack pay homage to the punky musical roots of its Bowery neighbourhood. A $60 prix fixe was well worth the price tag, and offered a lot of choice, considering it was Thanksgiving.

The open space was packed, fairly noisy, but bustling with excitement and was a great atmosphere. The server could tell we were Canadian and was so kind (she had been to TIFF)! She recommended a Trappist beer that was so refreshing, found out later it is a designation of origin product (brewed by monks!) much like Champagne, and that's why it came with the $15 price tag!

The squash soup starter was uber-creamy and a tastier choice that the citrus, avocado, and red pepper chop salad with a ginger-sesame vinaigrette, which was still refreshing, and helped prevent me from getting too stuffed. 

The turkey main was a more gourmet version of your favourite Thanksgiving  dinner. The white meat was delicate and accompanied by a rich brown mean croquette. Brussel spouts, a citrus-y stuffing and a light gravy topped it off. I missed cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes, but overall, a memorable turkey dinner.

Also snuck a few bites of  my mom's crispy gnocchi with apple cider braised veal cheeks, parsnip puree, mushrooms, pearl onions and brussel sprouts. Alas, as the dish was a bit scant, I didn't get a full bite, with all ingredients, but the veal and parsnips were flavourful enough.

For dessert, I went with the server's suggestion -- the apple souffle, not something I would normally order, but again it was the lighter option as the others were marshmallow and syrup topped sundaes and the like, I was satisfied. It was like a creamy cinnamon-y apple sauce pudding!

Overall, a total thumbs up, a great ambiance with lots of conversation starters with top notch food and great service.