The stunning eateries in London have embraced the holiday spirit, adorning themselves with captivating Christmas decorations.
Often, people believe that Autumn is the most charming time to visit London - and rightly so. Yet Winter brings its unique allure to the city, making it a closely contested affair. Annually, we have the privilege of marveling at the spectacular Christmas trees and delightful Christmas lights - an enchanting spectacle to behold. However, London’s charm during the holiday season extends beyond these visual treats. In fact, the city's dining establishments also join in the festive spirit, making it a culinary delight to explore. Hence, we have curated a selection of the most festive Christmas restaurants in London for you to include in your exploration plan this winter season.
1. Daphne’s, Chelsea
This acclaimed London Italian restaurant always goes all out with its balls-to-the-wall (and the ceiling) approach to Christmas decorations. This year’s display brings a Rennaisance-inspired Christmas to London with the launch of their latest campaign in collaboration with Malfy Gin, ‘Nativà Mistica’. Every square inch of Daphne’s has been festooned with festive adornments, with a roaring fire at the centre of it all. It’s cosy, charming, and utterly fantastically Christmassy! If you're planning a trip to experience the holiday spirit in London, or simply looking for a place to stay after a magical night at Daphne's, be sure to check out the options on website: hotels-of-london.com. Their selection of accommodations ensures that you can find the perfect place to rest your head and continue to bask in the Yuletide joy that the city has to offer. Whether it's the romance of the Renaissance or the contemporary comfort of a boutique hotel, you'll find a sanctuary to match the whimsy and wonder of your London Christmas adventure.
2. Seabird in Southwark
The esteemed Seabird, situated in Southwark, has given its rooftop a festive twist, taking on a wintery avatar as the Snowbird. Guests can sip on Grey Goose Vodka-infused seasonal cocktails while feasting on Mediterranean sharing dishes, from an impressive vantage point on the 14th floor that offers breathtaking cityscape views. The ambience is remarkably nostalgic, with décor that nostalgically harks back to the 70s, and a modern-traditional fused menu that equally belongs to this era and those gone by. One mustn't overlook their Arctic Espresso - an innovative spin on the classic espresso martini, uniquely presented in ice-made shot glasses.
3. Hithe + Seek, City of London
Hithe + Seek and The Westin (the hotel in which it can be found) have undergone a delightful Winter Candyland transformation. London is now blessed with the presence of a truly enchanting gingerbread house grotto, complete with life-size proportions. Alongside this captivating attraction are giant candy gumdrops and an enormous advent calendar. Taking inspiration from the beloved tale of Hansel and Gretel, the entire makeover exudes a feeling of sweetness and wonderment.
Indulge in the joy of the holiday season by immersing yourself in the magical ambiance of Hithe + Seek at The Westin. Step foot into a world that resembles a whimsical sugar-coated paradise. Every corner holds surprises and delights, transporting visitors to a realm of childhood fantasies. From the meticulously crafted gingerbread house grotto to the larger-than-life candy gumdrops, every detail has been designed to create a truly unforgettable experience.
4. Dalloway Terrace, Fitzrovia
Discover the enchanting and lush Dalloway Terrace in Fitzrovia, now transformed into the mesmerizing 'A Kind of Magic' terrace. This holiday season, indulge in the festive atmosphere, complemented by the delightful presence of Perrier-Jouët Champagne. Step into a realm adorned with vibrant red Virgina Creeper, elegant gilded anemones, plump berries, and enchanting fairy lights, casting a spellbinding ambiance.
Celebrating the spirit of the iconic Champagne house, Dalloway Terrace welcomes you to savor an array of Champagne cocktails, delectable wintry dishes, and a delightful selection of festive afternoon teas. As you nestle under warm sheepskin blankets amidst the cozy glow of heaters, revel in this magical experience that will brighten even the dreariest of days.
5. Sunday in Brooklyn, Situated in Bayswater
After a triumphant launch from its USA roots in 2021, the western region of London is once again thrilled as Sunday in Brooklyn declares the resurgence of their holiday-themed hideaway, fondly known as 'Snowday in London', set to be unveiled on November 29. Look forward to an exciting selection of revitalized winter drinks, revamped shareable dishes, and joyous group caroling for a truly merry experience.
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6. Tattu London, Tottenham Court Road
At Tattu London on Tottenham Court Road, you can expect an unforgettable dining experience during the festive season. This year, they are bringing back The Great Snow theme for 2023, complete with exquisite dishes like the Snow Leopard dessert, which combines honeycomb, white chocolate, and meringue. You can also indulge in special cocktails such as The Great Snow, featuring Grey Goose vodka, elderflower, lemon, and prosecco. The Winter Terrace, transformed with heaters, furs, and dazzling lights, awaits you for an enchanting outdoor experience.
Inside the restaurant, Tattu London has gone the extra mile by giving their iconic Cherry Blossom trees a magical wintry makeover. Now, they feature sparkling, icy-blue branches, adding an ethereal touch to the overall festive ambiance.
Take a moment to imagine yourself surrounded by the stunning decor, sipping on a signature cocktail, and savoring delectable treats during this holiday season. Tattu London is the place to be for a memorable and festive dining experience.
7. Coq D’Argent, City of London
Coq D’Argent has rebranded for the festive season once again into Lodge d’Argent, with the return of their seasonal partnership with Rémy Martin. Inspired by the French Alps, they’ve transformed into one of the most brr-illiant Christmas restaurants in London, with chalet-style dining and an exclusive menu of limited-edition Rémy Martin cocktails and snacks. There’s even a ski-lift photo spot for you to immortalise the night.
8. Aviary, Shoreditch
Aviary has partnered up with Grey Goose Vodka to launch their enchanting Nordic Nights Winter Terraces and Igloos.It’s all very cosy and warm, with incredible sights everywhere you look: within the igloos, on the rooftop, and out across the London skyline. There are even light projections across the winter terraces and igloos, to make it seem as if the Northern Lights are illuminating the space! Add to that plenty of delicious cocktails, as well as an impressive food menu, and you’re set for a festive night out to remember.
9. Wagtail, Monument
Teaming up with Aviary and Grey Goose Vodka, Wagtail has transformed their rooftop bar and restaurant into a captivating Nordic Nights theme. This unique transformation mirrors a winter wonderland, enriched by the presence of igloos and birch and spruce trees, and enhanced with the mesmerising Northern Lights. Tempted by the captivating aesthetics of both places, you may find the allure impossible to resist. Consider it an intriguing comparative study or an engaging game of Spot The Difference.
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10. Experience the Festive Magic at The Little Scarlet Door in Soho
Christmas is more than just a day; it's a state of mind that engulfs us all. At The Little Scarlet Door, this state of mind is celebrated throughout the party season in grand style. This unique bar and restaurant, inspired by the charm of New York apartments, captivates visitors with its breathtaking holiday-themed decor and delightful seasonal specials. Join the festivities and let the good times roll!
Stepping into The Little Scarlet Door is like entering a whimsical wonderland that instantly transports you to a magical Christmas realm. With every detail meticulously crafted to wow guests, you'll find yourself immersed in a festive atmosphere that will ignite your holiday spirit.
11. sketch, Mayfair
Continuously proving its brilliance, sketch is undoubtedly among the most awe-inspiring restaurant and venues within the capital city and possibly, the entire globe (If it isn't unmatched worldwide...). As the holiday season descends, they've outdone themselves yet again, transforming the space into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Each room bursts with yuletide joy, from The East Bar & Pods, featuring a Christmas tree capped with snow within a massive snow globe, to The Glade transformed into a still picture of a stormy winter's night. With each space maintaining its unique charm amidst the transformation, one could easily lose track of time exploring the mesmerizing festive decor!
12. Gaucho, various venues
Gaucho is saying Gaucho-ho-ho this festive season, with Christmassy transformations and events taking place across a number of their sites. There’s the Terrazas Patagonian Terrace at their Piccadilly venue and the Snow Globe Dining Pods over in Canary Wharf. Head to Charlotte Street and you’ll find them hosting a festive film club, while in Sloane Square they’re hosting wreath-making workshops. Meanwhile, in Richmond, they’ve got a special selection of Riverside Grab and Go Christmas Cocktails, while doggy visitors to Hampstead will be treated to a Winter Wooferland instalment of Doggy Saturday on December 2. I’m getting dizzy just trying to keep track of it all! I guess I’ll just have to visit every single one of them, so I don’t miss a single festive second…
13. Holmes' Kitchen in Marylebone
Concluding our collection of prime Christmas dining spots in London for 2023's seasonal celebrations, we spotlight Marylebone's own Kitchen at Holmes. Once again, they present a spectacle, boasting a mesmerizing rooftopcinema encounter. The event commences with a bespoke seasonal tasting session, followed by a cosy movie underneath the starry sky. It culminates in an indulgent experience featuring Perrier Jouët Champagne, popcorn, and a festive cocktail, nestled among Christmas trees and twinkling fairy lights while enjoying a Christmas classic.
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