Christmas Day in London is nothing short of magical, with a wealth of dining options that promise an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re in search of a traditional dinner or looking to try something new with versatile restaurant Xmas dinners, the capital offers a dazzling choices. From lavish multi-course meals to inventive international flavours, you’ll find the perfect place to celebrate the season.
Among the standouts in this collection, one of my personal favourites is the Baked Dover Sole with black cabbage, yellow chanterelles, and langoustine butter sauce at Bentley’s. The rich flavours of the Dover Sole paired with the luxurious butter sauce make it a memorable dish, perfect for the festive season. It’s the kind of meal that captures the magic of Christmas.
Whether you’re seeking Christmas dinner ideas or simply browsing for a Christmas day dinner near you, we’ve gathered everything you need to know. From opulent venues with traditional fare to more innovative takes on the holiday feast, this guide consolidates all the best restaurants open on Christmas day in London.
Just remember to book soon—these popular spots fill up fast!
Best Christmas Set Menus in London 2024
Quaglino’s, St James’s
Celebrate Christmas in style at Quaglino’s with a lavish 4-course menu. This iconic restaurant blends opulence with exceptional culinary craftsmanship, offering starters like grilled scallops with lobster bisque and wild mushroom tart with truffle cream. Main courses include roasted bronze turkey breast with venison sausage roll and wild halibut, complemented by indulgent sides like goose fat roasted potatoes. The festive menu also boasts exquisite desserts, including Christmas pudding with Woodford Reserve bourbon crème anglaise. With a beautiful setting and outstanding food, Quaglino’s offers a truly unforgettable Christmas experience.
Must-try: Pan roasted wild halibut with Beluga lentils and Scottish girolles.
Price: £150 per person
Location: 16 Bury St, London SW1Y 6AJ
Claridge’s, Mayfair
For the epitome of Christmas elegance, look no further than Claridge’s. Known for its extravagant designer-led Christmas trees, Claridge’s is the place to be for a luxury Christmas Day feast. Offering a lavish five-course lunch that includes smoked salmon and caviar, lobster raviolo, and Claridge’s famous Christmas pudding, this is a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, Claridge’s promises an unforgettable holiday gathering.
Claridge’s is renowned not only for its exquisite dining but also for its annual designer Christmas tree—one of London’s must-see festive attractions.
Must-try: Claridge’s famous Christmas pudding.
Price: Christmas Day – £275 per person (Children’s £130), Christmas Eve – £525 per person (Children’s £260)
Location: Brook St, London W1K 4HR
The Cinnamon Club, Westminster
For those seeking a more adventurous Christmas Day meal, The Cinnamon Club offers a stunningly unique menu that infuses traditional Christmas flavours with Indian spices. Starters like Keralan-style lobster soup and Tandoori turkey tikka set the tone, while mains such as slow-braised lamb leg with masala braised potatoes and Kokum crusted halibut offer a fresh, flavour-packed twist on festive dining. A selection of spice-friendly wines and indulgent desserts like garam masala Christmas pudding make this a standout for those wanting something beyond the traditional roast.
Must-try: Slow braised lamb leg with nutmeg and peppercorn sauce.
Price: £125 per person
Location: The Old Westminster Library, Great Smith St, London SW1P 3BU
Bardo St James’s
For those looking to splurge this Christmas, Bardo St James’s offers a luxurious and glamourous setting that pairs beautifully with its refined Italian menu. Feast on indulgent mains like beef sirloin with celery root puree and lobster paccheri with Amalfi lemon, all served in an atmosphere dripping in velvet and live music. Whether you opt for a light antipasti or a decadent main, Bardo ensures an elegant and memorable celebration, perfect for those who want to treat themselves this Christmas.
Must-try: Lobster paccheri with Amalfi lemon.
Price: Set menus from £100 per person
Location: 4 Suffolk Pl, London SW1Y 4HX
Chinese Cricket Club, Blackfriars
Nestled inside the Hyatt Regency, the Chinese Cricket Club offers a festive dining experience with a distinct Asian flair. This Christmas, the restaurant presents a stunning sharing menu, including a mixed dim sum platter and half a traditional Peking duck, followed by mains like wok-fried venison in black pepper sauce and fried Dover sole. Finish with a choice of yuzu sphere or strawberry compote with yuzu parfait for a delightful end to your Christmas Day meal.
Must-try: Half a traditional Peking duck with all the trimmings.
Price: Sharing menus from £89 per person
Location: 19 New Bridge St, London EC4V 6DB
LAVO, Marylebone
LAVO in Marylebone promises a Christmas filled with joy and delicious Italian cuisine. Offering a carefully curated festive menu for £95 per person, you can indulge in dishes that blend classic Italian comfort with a contemporary twist. For the little ones, LAVO also offers a special Kids Christmas Set Menu, ensuring everyone in the family has a memorable experience. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes this the ideal spot for family gatherings and intimate celebrations alike.
Must-try: Classic Italian Christmas specials with a modern twist.
Price: £95 per person
Location: The BoTree, 34 Marylebone Ln, London W1U 2DR
Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill, Mayfair
Bentley’s in Mayfair is the go-to spot for seafood lovers looking to host a sophisticated Christmas Day gathering. This renowned seafood restaurant offers an elegant private dining room menu, featuring options like baked Orkney scallop, salt-aged beef wellington, and stick toffee pudding. With a glamorous setting and luxurious offerings, Bentley’s ensures an unforgettable experience for those celebrating in style.
Must-try: Roasted wild sea bass paired with Champagne and caviar.
Price: From £95 per person
Location: 11-15 Swallow St, Piccadilly, London W1B 4DG
Tamarind, Mayfair
Tamarind in Mayfair presents a refined Christmas experience with a blend of classic Indian flavours and British flair. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a menu steeped in tradition, providing an elegant and sophisticated setting for those looking to elevate their Christmas Day dining experience. Expect rich, aromatic dishes that include slow-cooked lamb and a variety of spice-infused sides, paired with exquisite wines for an exceptional meal.
Must-try: Slow-cooked lamb with saffron sheermal.
Price: Varies, inquire for details
Location: 20 Queen St, London W1J 5PR
Pavyllon, Mayfair
Pavyllon offers a refined dining experience for those who seek luxury with a modern twist. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, the restaurant serves creative, beautifully crafted dishes in a relaxed yet elegant setting. For Christmas, expect a selection of innovative plates that showcase both French techniques and British ingredients, making for a memorable dining experience. They offer a 5-course tasting menu for £280 per person, with the option to try a 6-course tasting menu for £350 per person.
Must-try: Creative festive dishes with a Michelin-starred touch.
Price: Starts from £280 per person
Location: Hamilton Pl, London W1J 7DR
Benares, Mayfair
Benares is a haven for those who love bold, spice-infused dishes served in an elegant, luxurious setting. This festive season, the restaurant offers two exceptional dining options to elevate your celebration. Choose between the tasting menu (£149 per person), a curated journey of spice-laden, seasonal dishes, or the À la Carte menu (£95 per person for three courses), both designed to showcase Indian culinary traditions at their finest.
For Christmas Day, Benares is open from 12pm to 5pm, serving their specially crafted festive menus.
Must-try: The Indian-inspired Christmas Tasting Menu
Price: From £95 per person
Location: 12a Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BS
After dinner, why not take a stroll to enjoy London’s magical Christmas lights? They’re the perfect backdrop to your festive celebrations.
