The day before Thanksgiving means travel, traffic — and, for many families, takeout. Cooking another meal the night before the impending feast isn’t high on many of our priority lists, which explains why the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is one of the biggest pizza nights of the year across the country.

This year, skip the national delivery chains and wow out-of-town guests with a pie from the best pizza joint in your neck of the woods. Some of them even deliver. Here are some of our personal favorites from coast to coast. Plus, check out Food Network Magazine’s 50 States, 50 Pizzas for worthy pies from every state.

Of course, pizza isn’t the only solid takeout or delivery option around. A deli spread is ideal because you don’t have to worry about it getting cold as guests trickle in. Plus, if you go the bagel route, breakfast for dinner makes a comforting meal after a long day of traveling. These new-school delis across the country are doing Jewish comfort food proud.

Before you embark on Thursday’s all-American feast, Asian fare makes a winning pregame meal. Chinese takeout is always a crowd-pleaser, whether you pick it up from your local hole in the wall or a fusion hot spot. These restaurants turn out some of the best dumplings you’ll ever sink your chopsticks into, and the rest of their menus live up to that standard too.

Perhaps a little red meat is in order the night before the poultry-focused feast. Treat family to the best burgers in your state by consulting Food Network Magazine’s handy map of 50 States, 50 Burgers.

What's your family eating the night before the big feast?