10 Best Christmas Restaurants in London
Each year, many restaurants in London are completely decked out with amazing Christmas lights and decor, which line the streets and fill the spaces with beauty.
Whether you are staying in a Christmas hotel in London or a luxury apartment in the city, knowing the best drinking and dining spots will make your stay much better!
Without further ado, here is a list of ten of the most festive spots perfect for you and your friends or family this season.
10 Christmas Restaurants to Visit in London
London’s top restaurants pull out all the stops, crafting special Christmas menus that combine traditional flavours with the feel of the season. Whether it’s a classic roast turkey with all the trimmings or a fusion dish infused with festive spices, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Let’s explore ten of these restaurants so you know exactly where to go!
The Ivy in Covent Garden takes festive cheer seriously each year with its enchanting holiday makeover. Known for its colourful seasonal decorations and twinkling lights, the restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Why Visit: The Ivy’s Christmas menu features a mix of British classics and contemporary dishes. Think rich winter soups, indulgent desserts, and expertly crafted cocktails with a holiday twist.
Recommended Dish: Goose, Turkey, and Duck Shepherd’s Pie: Braised lamb and beef with mashed potato, cranberry chutney, sage, and orange zest.
Perfect For: Romantic dinners, festive outings with friends, or family celebrations.
Bonus: After your meal, take a stroll through Covent Garden’s magical Christmas markets and light displays for a complete holiday experience.
2. Bob Bob Ricard (Soho)
With its luxurious Art Deco interiors and the iconic “Press for Champagne” button at every table, Bob Bob Ricard is a haven for festive indulgence. The restaurant’s holiday menu perfectly complements its opulent surroundings, offering a mix of comforting classics and refined dishes.
Why Visit: The setting is ideal for those looking to elevate their Christmas dining with a touch of glamour. Expect bespoke festive cocktails, truffle-laden dishes, and desserts that double as works of art.
Recommended Dish: Champagne and truffle humble pie—a decadent twist on a holiday favourite.
Perfect For: Celebrations with friends, date nights, or treating yourself to an extravagant meal.
Bonus: Located in vibrant Soho, you’re surrounded by theatres, bars, and shops to continue the festivities after dinner.
3. 34 Mayfair (Mayfair)
Located in one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, 34 Mayfair is famous for its jaw-dropping Christmas decor, featuring glittering garlands, oversized baubles, and dazzling holiday installations. The chic yet cosy vibe makes it a top choice for festive dining.
Why Visit: Their Christmas menu is a masterclass in luxury dining, offering traditional British fare with a modern twist. The impeccable service ensures every guest feels pampered.
Recommended Dish: Devonshire chicken breast with fried Brussels sprouts agrodolce & Pecorino and the 34 Christmas snowflake for dessert.
Perfect For: Upscale family gatherings, intimate dinners, or hosting out-of-town visitors.
Bonus: Its proximity to Bond Street means you can enjoy high-end holiday shopping before or after your meal.
4. Petersham Nurseries (Covent Garden)
An oasis of greenery in the heart of the city, Petersham Nurseries offers a tranquil escape from the noisy streets of Covent Garden. Its rustic charm, filled with twinkling fairy lights and seasonal foliage, creates a magical dining experience with meals made by Michelin Star chefs.
Why Visit: The farm-to-table philosophy means everything is fresh, seasonal, and delicious. Their Christmas menu focuses on simple yet sophisticated flavours that celebrate the best of the season.
Recommended Dish: Braised Haye Farm Ox Cheek, Mashed Potato with Grilled Tenderstem Broccoli, Chilli, and Garlic.
Perfect For: A relaxed holiday meal with friends or a peaceful retreat for solo diners.
Bonus: After dining, explore their shop for unique gifts, including handmade ornaments and artisanal treats.
5. Sketch (Mayfair)
Sketch is a feast for the senses, offering artistic interiors and playful themes that transform with the seasons. At Christmas, the entire venue is reimagined into a winter wonderland, with festive installations that dazzle diners at every turn.
Why Visit: The Christmas menu is as whimsical as the decor, featuring creative dishes that blend bold flavours with holiday traditions. The service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is unforgettable.
Recommended Dish: Westholme Wagyu Tomahawk with black garlic arancini or fresh spaghetti with lemon.
Perfect For: Trendy gatherings or Instagram-worthy celebrations.
Bonus: Each room has a unique festive design, so every visit feels like stepping into a different holiday story.
6. Clos Maggiore (Covent Garden)
Often dubbed the most romantic restaurant in London, Clos Maggiore is a must-visit during the holiday season, especially if you love French cuisine. The conservatory, adorned with white blossoms and fairy lights, becomes a dreamy winter retreat perfect for an intimate Christmas meal.
Why Visit: The menu offers a refined fusion of French and British cuisine, with dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The ambience is cosy and luxurious, making it ideal for special occasions.
Recommended Dish: Try the Slow-Cooked Piece of Beef ‘Daube Provencal’, Roast Winter Vegetables, and truffle potato puree from the Christmas menu. For dessert, have Cranberry Nougat.
Perfect For: Couples seeking a romantic holiday experience.
Bonus: Proximity to West End theatres makes it a great choice for a pre-show dinner.
7. Duck & Waffle (City of London)
Perched on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck & Waffle offers panoramic views of London’s festive skyline. Its vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes make it a top pick for adventurous diners. This restaurant is open 24/7, and it’s one of the few spots where you can enjoy a festive feast at any time of day. The menu includes unique twists on holiday classics and bold flavour combinations.
Recommended Dish: Roast turkey with carrot purée, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, pigs in a blanket, roasties, cranberries, and gravy, with the Yule Log for dessert.
Perfect For: Holiday brunches, late-night celebrations, or unique Christmas Day dining.
Bonus: The city views add an extra layer of magic to your dining experience.
8. The Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay (Strand)
The Savoy Grill, located within the iconic Savoy Hotel on the Strand, is the epitome of timeless elegance. Its festive offerings include a classic Christmas menu in a stunning Art Deco setting, making every meal feel like a grand occasion. Enjoy the luxurious ambience paired with perfectly executed dishes by a world-class culinary team. Expect everything from seafood starters to show-stopping desserts.
Recommended Dish: Rib-eye steak with smoked paprika-seasoned fries and sauteed spinach. For dessert, try sticky toffee pudding.
Perfect For: Formal holiday dinners, corporate celebrations, or family gatherings.
Bonus: The Savoy’s grand holiday decorations are a sight to behold and a perfect backdrop for photos.
9. Winter Garden at The Landmark London (Marylebone)
The Landmark London’s Winter Garden is a festive haven, with its soaring atrium transformed into a magical winter retreat. The combination of lush greenery and twinkling lights creates a serene yet sophisticated atmosphere. The seasonal menu celebrates British luxury, featuring rich flavours and premium ingredients. The attentive service ensures a flawless dining experience.
Recommended Dish: Pan Seared Red Mullet with Curried Cauliflower Steak and a Baked Chocolate Cheesecake for dessert.
Perfect For: Elegant Christmas Day lunches or evening celebrations.
Bonus: The ambience is unmatched, perfect for those looking to capture the essence of holiday sophistication.
10. Dishoom (Multiple Locations)
Dishoom offers a unique twist on Christmas dining with its Indian-inspired holiday menu. Each location is styled to evoke the charm of old Bombay, making it an inviting and distinctive choice for festive meals. The menu combines bold, spicy flavours with traditional holiday elements, offering a refreshing break from the usual Christmas fare.
Recommended Dish: Turkey raan with Bombay potatoes, paired with a festive chai eggnog. There are also vegan options available.
Perfect For: Casual gatherings or adventurous diners looking to spice up their holiday meals.
Bonus: The warm, cosy ambience makes it feel like a home away from home during the holidays.
Wrapping Up
London’s Christmas dining scene is nothing short of extraordinary. From luxury venues like Bob Bob Ricard and The Savoy Grill to cosy retreats such as Clos Maggiore and Dishoom, there’s a festive experience waiting for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in traditional holiday fare or explore innovative twists on Christmas classics, these restaurants promise exceptional cuisine and enchanting atmospheres that capture the magic of the season.
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