Thanksgiving, home, and hearth: Is there a better place for the quintessential American holiday than the kitchen? That’s where the Thanksgiving feast truly begins—and ends (turkey sandwiches, anyone?).   

The kitchen is at the heart of the holiday and, indeed, of the home. And, the hallmark of the greatest kitchens is the harmonious balance of form and function.  

Herewith, Luxury Defined presents a holiday cornucopia of kitchens. Each has its own array of professional-grade appliances, smart technology, ambient lighting, elegant finishes, comfortable furnishings, and ample, practical storage and prep space. Let the feast begin! 

1. Lakeside Manor in Cornelius, North Carolina 

This brand-new lakefront estate in Cornelius, North Carolina, has a prime waterfront setting on Lake Norman—a lake so large that it is often referred to as an inland sea. 

Luxurious living, whether at play, at leisure or entertaining, is the focus of the 12,002-square-foot manor, offered turnkey with furnishings and accessories curated by David L. Smith Interiors. 

The palatial two-story foyer flows into a light-filled salon, suited for festive gatherings with its elegant lakeside terrace. Farther along are the formal dining room, office/study, and banquet-grade kitchen with dual islands, a scullery, and integrated appliances. 

Six bedrooms and eight-and-a-half bathrooms include the second-level primary suite, with its custom closet and white marble bathroom. 

A second kitchen and wine cellar serve the lakeside leisure suite, complete with a golf simulator and sauna. Outdoors await a saltwater infinity pool and spa, a firepit, fireplace, and grilling patio.  

The long, railed pier accesses the floating dock with two slips, a boatlift, and a pontoon boat. Land yachts get a four-car garage. A gated entry provides access to the property.  

Charlotte’s city center and international airport are a 30-minute drive. 

2. The Monocle in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, California 

The Monocle is an exquisite, newly built estate home in the A-list enclave of Holmby Hills, Los Angeles. 

This 17,661-square-foot modernist mansion encompasses three luxurious levels with six bedrooms and 12 bathrooms.  

Walls of glass flood the open-concept living spaces with California sunlight and frame the vistas of the gardens, the treetops, and the Santa Monica Mountains.   

The kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring top-of-the-line Miele ovens, two mini wine cellars, and a nook for casual dining. Adjoining is a vast reception room with a fireside lounge and formal dining space. Retractable glass doors open to a resort-inspired garden terrace with a pool, spa, and an outdoor kitchen for poolside parties and alfresco dining. 

Each bedroom is a sanctuary, complete with en suite baths and generous closets. The primary suite has an in-ceiling media screen, dual bathrooms and closets, and a private balcony. 

The lower level is dedicated to entertainment and wellness with a stylish bar, fitness studio, sauna, massage room, and an outdoor plunge pool and spa. Additional amenities include an office, elevator for effortless access, and a temperature-controlled wine cellar. 

Related: Discover Luxury Homes in the Woods

3. Riverfront Estate in Hamilton, Massachusetts

This South Hamilton riverfront estate encompasses 61 acres in one of the most picturesque regions of Boston’s North Shore.

The circa-1883 Shingle Style main house offers 5,800 square feet of living space with seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms. 

The interiors have been beautifully renovated for comfort and functionality. There are several reception areas for year-round entertaining. The kitchen is a delight with its lemon-hued cabinetry, antique wood island, and wide oak floors. The atrium-style breakfast room opens to a screened-in porch, patio, and terrace. 

Beyond, a charming circular garden connects to an outdoor pool and a pool house with its own kitchen. 

Ancillary structures include an enormous, multi-level equestrian barn with a turnout area. Bordering the grounds are miles of riding and hiking through woodland replete with wildlife. 

4. Grand North Shore Villa in Northfield, Illinois 

This stately, château-inspired villa is set within 1.25 wooded acres in the exclusive Chicago suburb of Northfield, Illinois. 

The floor plan encompasses four levels of palatial living space for entertaining on a grand scale, with views of the woods at the rear. 

The two-story foyer is graced with inlaid marble flooring and a floating, curved, cherrywood staircase. Flanking the foyer are formal living and dining rooms, each with French doors out to the grounds. 

The kitchen accommodates big holiday celebrations or formal, catered events, with a breakfast space, and two marble islands: one with prep space and a sink; the other with seating for eight. An informal great room, private office, and luxurious primary suite are also on this floor. 

Six en suite bedrooms and a library are on the upper floors. The lower level offers two more guest bedrooms and three full baths, as well as a self-contained recreation suite with a "man cave," full kitchen, gym, sauna, theater, and sound-proof music room.   

The indoor pool is housed in an atrium with two levels of glass overlooking the tree-lined gardens and forest preserve. A tennis court; gazebo; heated, four-car garage; and a paved forecourt with additional parking are further highlights. 

Entertaining on a grand scale? More dream kitchens this way.