A Feast For The Eyes:

Thanksgiving With Lisa Fine

In Lisa Fine’s world, every table tells a story—this Thanksgiving, it’s one of color, charm, memory and conviviality. Trading formality for warmth, with pumpkins, pomegranates, and a soundtrack of Sinatra, read on to discover Lisa's timeless tips and inspired hosting touches.

INTERVIEW BY TEAM CABANA | ROOMS & GARDENS | 3 NOVEMBER 2025

Your tables always seem to tell a story. When it comes to Thanksgiving, what narrative are you looking to create through your table setting?

Since Thanksgiving is the one day of the year where most of us eat with abandon, I like for the food to be the focus.I always have a few scattered flowers but often to decorate with colorful fall fruits or vegetables, pomegranates, pumpkins.

Do you have favorite table linen collection or fabric pattern that you turn to for Thanksgiving, and how do they help set the mood?

I don’t think I have ever set the same table twice! Pink or white linens are my go to and I cover many brands from all over the world. Hamish Bowles [fashion journalist and Global Editor at Large, Vogue] once found a set of antique white napkins with my initials embroidered in white and those are my most cherished linens.

Mixing patterns and textures is your signature — how do you layer plates, glasses, and objects to make the table feel festive and fun?

I am always conscious to layer without any one element overpowering. The beauty of a mix should be a subtle flow of pattern and color.

Do you have a go-to floral or botanical element for a Thanksgiving centerpiece?

Orange pumpkins and red pomegranates will add color and a pop to any table.

What are your thoughts on place cards and menus — are they essential to the experience or something you play with depending on the mood?

I always have place cards for parties over eight, except on Thanksgiving. Often friends and family are surrounded by those they rarely see, so I want people to feel free to sit by who they want. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. It is always about eating, drinking and celebrating – and hopefully with those you love!

Are there any traditions, whether culinary or decorative, from your travels that have woven themselves into your Thanksgiving rituals?

I always serve a traditional Thanksgiving from Alex Hitz’s The Art Of The Host, starting with Pumpkin Soup served out of a large cut out pumpkin, followed by Roast Turkey with Sherry and Giblet Gravy and Aunt Betty’s Orange Cranberry Sauce.

I make a cornbread Jalepeno and Sausage Stuffing we had every Thanksgiving growing up in Mississippi. I like to finish with my favorite desserts from my travels, Claudia Roden’s Orange Almond Cake, The River Cafe's Flourless Chocolate Ginger Cake and last but not least Alex Hitz’s Texas Pecan Pie.

What are a few elements — however small — that instantly elevate a table into something memorable for you?

Mint Julep cups filled with flowers scattered around the table

Thanksgiving is as much about the setting as the scent and sound. Do you have a favorite candle, music playlist, or even a signature cocktail that adds to the atmosphere?

I actually love the scent that emanates from the kitchen. A good cocktail always is the best start for any dinner! My favorite music is The Rat Pack: Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. or Louis Armstrong.

Finally, what’s one unexpected or unconventional item that always finds its way onto your Thanksgiving table?

Small lacquer and raffia bowls filled with dried chilis.