When it comes to holiday feasts, few dishes captivate the imagination quite like deep-fried turkey and turducken. These unusual culinary creations are the epitome of festive decadence, combining bold flavors, unique cooking techniques, and an undeniable wow factor. Whether you’re a traditionalist seeking a perfectly crispy turkey or an adventurous foodie ready to tackle the three-in-one marvel that is the turducken, these dishes offer a delicious twist on classic holiday staples. Get ready to spread your wings and elevate your Thanksgiving spread.

If you're craving a dine-in deep-fried turkey experience in Chicago, it might require a bit of creativity and some good fortune. While many of the city’s top restaurants feature exceptional Thanksgiving menus, few venture far from the classic holiday dishes. Very few barbecue joints and Southern-style eateries in Chicago are renowned for fried turkey. 

One establishment stands apart and is renowned for bringing its southern hospitality roots to the Windy City. Dine-in options for deep-fried turkey are rare in Chicago, but Big Jones, founded by chef Paul Fehribach and Mark Armantrout, offers a standout experience.

Big Jones, located in Andersonville, is known for using the finest ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets,  farms and specialty artisan products from the South. All dishes are prepared from scratch. Their Thanksgiving dinner promises to be a memorable meal you won’t soon forget. The curated menu for Thanksgiving dinner includes a delightful cauliflower bisque followed by Cajun-style deep fried turkey served with mashed sweet potatoes, followed by pumpkin pie for dessert.

They offer a full bar with over 100 whiskies, 50 beers and 50 wines, all sourced from producers who have the same culinary values as Chef Paul: “Only the best for our customers. ”They also offer both classic and hand-crafted specialty and seasonal cocktails sure to quench the thirst of the thirstiest of guests.

No Thanksgiving meal would be complete without a “doggie bag.” Each  Big Jones customer will receive a Nuremburger Elisenlebkuchen (German Gingerbread) to enjoy for breakfast the next day – or to make a sandwich IF you have any leftover turkey. Reservations are necessary for one of their three available seating times: 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.