For the last decade, Rooted Hospitality Group (RHG) has honored a beloved Thanksgiving tradition that goes far beyond the dining rooms of its restaurants. Every November, RHG provides Thanksgiving turkeys to all of its employees, from the kitchen staff to the support office, extending an annual gesture of gratitude to its workforce across New York. This year, with over 1,400 pounds of high-quality turkeys distributed, the program is set to make a big impact, supporting hundreds of team members and their families.
Chef Steven Tross, Head of RHG’s Culinary Team, shares his pride in this initiative: “It’s one of my favorite programs that our company has. The restaurant industry can be a career for some people, a second job for others, a part-time job, or even a first job out of school. No matter the situation, with the holidays coming, it’s a welcome gesture, as most could use a little help this time of year,” he said. “It’s one less thing to buy, and in this hectic season, it’s one less thing on our employees’ to-do list. Every year, they can count on RHG to take care of this and give them one less thing to worry about.”
The company’s commitment to quality is unwavering, not only in its restaurants but in the Thanksgiving turkeys it gifts to employees as well. “We serve nothing but the highest quality ingredients in our restaurants, and this is no exception,” Chef Steven adds. “There are lesser-quality turkeys at supermarkets and big-box stores, but our employees get the absolute best. We wouldn’t serve any less in our stores, and we certainly don’t want any less hitting our employees’ tables on this special day with their families.”
Beyond this annual turkey giveaway, Rooted Hospitality Group has consistently demonstrated its commitment to its people. The company offers comprehensive employee support through educational opportunities, wellness programs, and a culture that prioritizes work-life balance. But its Thanksgiving tradition shines brightly as an example of its values in action because all Rooted Hospitality locations close on Thanksgiving Day, allowing employees to spend quality time with their families. A rarity in the restaurant industry.
For those looking to enjoy a gourmet holiday meal without the hassle of cooking, RHG still has guests covered. Rooted Hospitality’s Thanksgiving pre-order menu allows customers to pick up chef-prepared holiday staples the day before Thanksgiving. From Cowfish’s famous cornbread and garlic mashed potatoes to flora & Fauna’s decadent truffle mushroom soup, these dishes are designed to wow guests and free up time to spend with loved ones.
For a closer look at the options, you can view the full menu here—but fair warning, the dessert selection is so tempting, clicking this link may lead to automatic ordering!
Through this thoughtful tradition, Rooted Hospitality Group reminds its employees, year after year, of how much they are valued—not just as team members but as part of the RHG family. Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, and at RHG, that gratitude extends to every corner of its organization, embodying a spirit of generosity that makes it a true standout in the industry.