Autumn brings cooler weather, fall colours and Thanksgiving dinner – and nothing else beats someone else cooking it. The culinary team at Fairmont Empress has created a scrumptious menu to enjoy in the swank Q at the Empress or offers Turkeys to Go to savour at home.

Buy… & Lie – Turkeys To Go. There is no shame in take out! Buy a turkey to go from the experts. An all-inclusive dinner with a nine kilo turkey serves eight to 10 guests and includes everything for a family feast – bread rolls and butter, roasted free run turkey with apple and brioche stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, maple roasted root vegetables, Brussel sprouts with bacon, giblet gravy, house made cranberry relish, and giblet gravy.

For dessert, ask about adding a signature chocolate torte – a decadent (and gluten free) dessert. Available for pickup at Fairmont Empress on Oct. 8 and 9 at 11 a.m. or 4 p.m. To reserve, e-mail [email protected], or call 250-389-2727.

Thanksgiving in Q at The Empress: Diners can relax in the posh ambiance of Q where Queen Victoria looks on with approval – and enjoy turkey with all the trimmings. The meal begins with an amuse of mini turkey and leek pie followed by an appetizer of smoked pumpkin bisque and entrée of roasted turkey breast with Brussel sprouts, maple roasted squash, and sage with apple brioche stuffing. Apple pie, fresh from the pastry shop, with pumpkin ice cream and candied hazelnut completes the meal.

The Thanksgiving Tasting menu is $65 per person, with wine pairings and local ciders from Q’s award-winning wine list available at an extra cost. The menu is offered Oct. 7, 8 and 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended and can be made through [email protected], or by calling 250-389-2727.