Today’s NYT Strands puzzle serves up an elegant spread with the theme “Oh, of course!” and if that sounds like something you’d say at a fancy dinner, you’re on the right track. From appetizers to dessert, this puzzle invites you to savor the courses of a gourmet meal. Whether you’re a foodie or just hungry for answers, we’ve got your complete guide below hints, Spangram direction, and every delicious theme word.
Today’s Strands Theme:
The theme for today’s NYT Strands on May 20, 2025, is — Oh, of course!
NYT Strands Hint for Today:
The Spangram clue: A sophisticated and luxurious restaurant characterized by high-quality food, ambiance, and service.
Not sure where to begin? Here are a few hints to get started:
- Hint #1: A larger dish, often served as the first course of a meal, introducing the main flavors.
- Hint #2: The centerpiece of a meal, usually a protein-based dish like steak, poultry, or seafood.
Strands Spangram Position: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?
The Spangram is mostly HORIZONTAL in direction.
- First letter: Row 3, Column 1
- Last letter: Row 3, Column 10
Today’s Strands Spangram Answer:
The Spangram for Strands #312 on May 20, 2025, is: FineDining
Today’s Strands Answers:
Here are all the theme words featured in today’s puzzle:
- SALAD
- DESSERT
- ENTREE
- CHEESE
- SOUP
- APPETIZERS

Reflections on Today’s Puzzle:
Today’s puzzle was a delightful journey through the world of culinary elegance, cleverly combined with engaging wordplay. The initial discoveries of SALAD and DESSERT provided an early clue to the overarching theme, a refined, multi-course gourmet meal. Each word added flavor and depth, leading seamlessly to the Spangram FineDining, which tied the experience together beautifully. Solving the puzzle felt like being guided through a luxurious tasting menu, where every element was intentional and satisfying.
Conclusion:
Today’s Strands offered a tasteful challenge, blending the elegance of fine dining with clever word discovery. If you managed to spot the theme quickly, you likely cruised through with ease. But if APPETIZERS or ENTREE tripped you up, don’t worry. Each puzzle is a fresh start. Whether you solved it in minutes or needed hints, the experience is what counts. Let us know how you did in the comments, and join us again tomorrow for a brand-new word adventure!