Friendsgiving Founder Jeff Strauss Hosts Holiday Feast Inspired by Iconic TV Episode

Jeff Strauss is hosting a special Friendsgiving dinner this year. The event takes place at his Studio City gastropub, OyBar. Strauss co-wrote the iconic 1994 Friends Thanksgiving episode that helped popularize the modern Friendsgiving tradition.The veteran TV writer turned restaurateur drew from his own life for the episode. He was inspired by a group meal he organized in college for students who couldn’t go home.

From TV Scripts to Restaurant Menus

The Friends episode did not invent the term Friendsgiving. However, it powerfully captured its core ethos for a massive audience. According to entertainment industry reports, the show’s portrayal resonated with young adults creating their own holiday traditions.Strauss later transitioned from television to the food industry. He first ran a popular sandwich shop before opening OyBar. The gastropub has developed a loyal following for its creative, globally-inspired comfort food.

A Menu Packed with Nostalgia and Inside Jokes

The eight-course Friendsgiving feast is a direct homage to the sitcom. The menu is filled with food references and inside jokes from the show’s first season. Dishes include various tartlets, multiple potato preparations, and a duck entrée.Strauss approaches his menu like he once approached scripts. He includes items that are personal and bring a smile to his face. This philosophy connects his culinary career directly back to his television writing roots.

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The enduring appeal of Friendsgiving shows how cultural traditions evolve. This year, one of its key architects brings the concept full circle. Jeff Strauss continues to build community, one shared meal at a time.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Friendsgiving?

Friendsgiving is a casual holiday meal celebrated with friends. It often occurs near Thanksgiving. It serves as an alternative or addition to traditional family gatherings.

Did the show *Friends* create Friendsgiving?

No, the term existed before the show. However, the *Friends* Thanksgiving episodes greatly popularized the concept. They showcased the idea of a chosen family celebrating together.

Where is Jeff Strauss’s Friendsgiving dinner?

The event is held at OyBar in Studio City. The dinners are scheduled for November 21st and 22nd. The multi-course meal includes wine pairings.

How did *Friends* influence modern holidays?

The show normalized celebrating with close friends. It made non-traditional gatherings feel more mainstream. This reflected a broader cultural shift in how people form family units.

Why did Jeff Strauss leave television?

Strauss pivoted to food as TV writing work became less consistent. He had a long-standing passion for food and hospitality. His restaurants have been well-received by critics and locals.