Good places to get a turkey...

[Scotty O]

Since this is my first thanksgiving in the city, and it seems like there is a particular way to do just about everything in the city I thought I'd ask how everyone here gets their Thanksgiving turkeys.

I've heard that to avoid waiting in a line that stretches around the block one should get it delivered. Citarella and Fresh Direct have been suggested. Anyone have experience with either? How does Whole Foods handle orders around Thanksgiving?

Edited November 11, 2004 by Scotty O (log)

[coughy]

I have always used Empire turkeys and found them to be delicious and they are available in most supermarkets.

[bronihk]

i just did an early thanksgiving and ordered my bird from quattro farms in pleasant valley, NY....it was excellent (although this can probably be partially attributed to the fact that i brined it). they're at the farmer's market in union square on saturdays for sure and perhaps one other day. the number to order is (914) 635-8202...then you just have to pick it up!

[bloviatrix]

I have always used Empire turkeys and found them to be delicious and they are available in most supermarkets.

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Kosher Marketplace (bway & 90) is selling fresh Empire turkeys for $2.89/lb -- many supermarkets only carry the frozen ones.

[coughy]

It might be worth a trip to NJ if you are buying a big enough turkey. The Shop Rite in West Orange has fresh Empires for $1.99/lb and frozen for $1.69/lb. If you spend $300 you get a free turkey.

[johnder]

I am not sure how much you want to schlep, but I always get my turkey from Dipalos turkey farm which has a stand on Saturdays at the farmers market at Grand Army Plaza. Usually you need to pre-order your turkey the in the weeks before t-day, but I know for a fact they always have a few extra turkeys on hand for people who forgot to reserve. The price is slightly higher than a supermarket bird, but you are getting a very high-quality freshly killed bird in return -- not to mention supporting the local farmers.

If you want more information, feel free to PM me.

john

[slkinsey]

Citarella is a reliable source of quality poultry, and they have several varieties from which you can choose. Better get there quick to order one, though.

[bloviatrix]

I am not sure how much you want to schlep, but I always get my turkey from Dipalos turkey farm which has a stand on Saturdays at the farmers market at Grand Army Plaza.  Usually you need to pre-order your turkey the in the weeks before t-day, but I know for a fact they always have a few extra turkeys on hand for people who forgot to reserve.  The price is slightly higher than a supermarket bird, but you are getting a very high-quality freshly killed bird in return -- not to mention supporting the local farmers.

If you want more information, feel free to PM me.

john

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Dipalo can also be found at the W. 97th St greenmarket on Friday mornings.

(the week of thanksgiving, the market has been re-scheduled to Wed)