Located at the edge of the riverfront in Savannah is the magnificent JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District. If you have not yet experienced this beautifully refurbished power plant turned luxury hotel, museum, and gemstone haven, nestled near the historic downtown district, you are truly missing out on one of Savannah’s most unique destinations.

Inside one of the three property hotels, the Atlantic Building, you will find the stunning Salzburg Ballroom, where an oh-so-scrumptious Thanksgiving brunch is held each year. I had the pleasure of abandoning my usual tradition of sweating for hours over a hot stove in a sweltering kitchen, preparing all the family favorites, and instead treated myself to a well-prepared, mouthwatering, tasty-licious Thanksgiving holiday buffet, with all the trimmings and then some.

Upon entering this grand ballroom, we were warmly escorted to a reserved table, personalized with our family name, which immediately made the experience feel special and welcoming. My eyes were bigger than my stomach, because there was simply no way to take in the incredible variety of food selections spread throughout the room. I could hardly decide where to begin.

I grabbed my appetite by the belly and headed straight to the salad station, which featured mini salad bowls, gorgeous goat cheese toast topped with cranberries and mandarin oranges, and a mega charcuterie display filled with meats, cheeses, dried and fresh fruits and vegetables, toasted nuts, briny olives, and complementary condiments like honey, jams, jellies, chutneys, and mustards.

Just across from there was the seafood bar, absolutely overflowing with jumbo cocktail shrimp, fresh-shucked oysters, and several other delectable seafood options that seafood lovers would truly appreciate.

Next, we made our way to the carving station, which did not disappoint. Offerings included low-smoked prime rib, herb-roasted turkey with giblet gravy, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, cornbread and sausage stuffing, cranberry sauce, and every classic Thanksgiving side dish you could imagine. It truly felt like a traditional family dinner, elevated to a whole new level. There was even a kid-friendly buffet station with favorites like chicken nuggets, pizza, and macaroni and cheese, perfect for the little ones who prefer to stick with what they know and love.

By the time I reached the fruit and dessert station, filled with mini tortes, cakes, and pies, I was already nearing my limit. Still, I managed to grab a cup of what tasted like rich, French-pressed coffee, although I had to pass on a beautiful cranberry cocktail I had been eyeing, simply because there was no more room left, and I mean that quite literally, no more room at the inn, in my stomach that is.

There was also a full bar offering premium beer, wine, and cocktails, including a Bloody Mary bar, which I spotted from across the crowded room. Unfortunately, I was far too full to make my way over, but it is definitely something I would check out on a return visit.

Overall, this was an impressive and memorable experience. It completely removed the stress of preparing a large Thanksgiving meal and allowed me to truly enjoy the holiday in a different way. As a mom who is usually responsible for cooking this big meal year after year, it felt refreshing to relax, indulge, and simply be present in the moment.

A special shout-out goes to the banquet coordinator, Mrs. Jackie Brown, who made her rounds throughout the ballroom, checking in on guests, clearing tables, serving coffee, and connecting with families. Her attention to detail and genuine hospitality added an extra layer of warmth to the entire experience.

By the end of it all, we were happily stuffed and ready to find a cozy couch to sink into and enjoy a holiday football game, or maybe even a few. We also managed to explore some of the other festive activities happening around the Plant Riverside District, which made the day even more enjoyable.

If you are ever in Savannah during the holiday season, this is definitely an experience worth adding to your list.

Check out my YouTube Video Review

JW Marriot Savannah Plant Riverside District

Thanks for stopping by, Ms. G.