The best restaurants for your Christmas party

Finding the best restaurant for your Christmas party isn’t always easy. In London, there are just so many to choose from, each with its own unique vibe - so we made this list to take the hassle out of searching. Instead, all you have to do is have a browse of these carefully selected London restaurants, then enquire directly to the venue in just a few clicks. From there, the venue’s team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and get the planning process started. Planning a great Christmas party at a restaurant has never been easier.

Updated on 07 August 2023

As we get closer to the festive season, there’s certainly a buzz in the air. It seems to start earlier and earlier every year, and with good reason. We think it’s never too soon to start planning your Christmas party. Firstly, because while there are lots of amazing Christmas party venues in London, dates get snapped up pretty quickly. And secondly, there’s always more to do than it first seems, although not to say you can’t go simple. There’s nothing wrong with simply booking a venue or restaurant and having some drinks and food, but to make the evening truly unforgettable, it might be worth thinking about a theme for your Christmas party, and some festive games for good measure.

In our books, however, the main thing to plan is the food. Many restaurants on this list offer a choice of set menus for Christmas, while others will let you choose from the seasonal a la carte. Either way, every entry on this list has tip-top food all year round and Christmas is no exception. In the drinks department, meanwhile, bubbles are a must. Some menus allow you to add on a Champagne or Prosecco reception for just a few extra pounds. Alternatively, it’s worth checking if there’s a festive cocktail in the offering. Something with cinnamon and cloves, perhaps?

There is actually an even easier way to organise your Christmas party: our free concierge service. All you have to do is fill in a short form with some basic info, and our concierge team will take it from there. Based on your answers to the questionnaire, you’ll be given a selection of venues, hand-picked just for you. Then, all you have to do is decide which is your favourite. We recommend pursuing this list first, but the concierge is a great avenue too.

Sunday in Brooklyn

Sunday in Brooklyn

98 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London, W2 5RU

Sunday in Brooklyn really did start off its life in Brooklyn, but now West Londoners are able to lap up the American inspired eatery too - complete with preppy staff and American classics. You’ll find a variety of cuisines available here though, making it a great choice for when you have various preferences with guests.

Baccala

Baccala

Unit B3, 194-204 Bermondsey Street, Bermondsey, London, SE1 3TQ

Bermondsey Street is known for being a hub of great restaurants, and Baccala is no exception to the rule. This pared-back Italian is great for those looking for a slightly more low-key venue to celebrate their Christmas party, without compromising on all of the delicious food.

Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus

Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus

Criterion Building, Soho, London, W1J 9HR

Hard Rock Cafe started its life just up the road in Park Lane, and is known for feeding its guests with anything from nachos to sizzling fajitas. Of course, you can expect plenty of festive food and fizz during the party season.

Park Chinois

Park Chinois

17 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 8EA

If you’re after somewhere seriously opulent to spend your Christmas party, Park Chinois is hard to beat. Plus you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dim sum - and nothing says festive spirit like a platter of dumplings, right?

SUSHISAMBA City

SUSHISAMBA City

110 Bishopsgate, City of London, London, EC2N 4AY

Whilst it may be chilly during December, it’s still nice to have the option of a rooftop when it comes to party venues, and you’ll be hard pushed to find somewhere more impressive than at Sushisamba City. Plus, you can enjoy Japanese and Brazilian fusion plates to bring something different to your festive meal.

100 Wardour St

100 Wardour St

100 Wardour Street, Soho, London, W1F 0TN

It’s known as being the venue for the Rolling Stone’s first London gig, but now it’s a sophisticated spot for anything from brunch through to late night drinks. With so much space, it caters for all sizes with options for private areas or exclusive hire.

Bentley

Bentley's

11-15 Swallow Street, Mayfair, London, W1B 4DG

Bentley’s is the London institution known as a go-to for luxury seafood dining - and it’s no surprise with the likes of Richard Corrigan at the helm. Everything on the menu is sublime, but ordering the oysters is an absolute must.

Corrigan

Corrigan's Mayfair

28 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 7EH

Corrigan’s sees another first class restaurant from renowned chef Richard Corrigan, but this time the focus is on game rather than seafood. Expect plenty of seasonal British and Irish produce elevated to new levels.

Bluebird

Bluebird

350 King's Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 5UU

Bluebird has become a London institution over the years, known for hosting the likes of the Made In Chelsea cast, and being a go-to for brunch along one of the city’s most famous roads. But it’s also a great spot to head for dinner, and offers plenty of private hire options for your next Christmas party.

The Midland Grand Dining Room

The Midland Grand Dining Room

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, King's Cross, London, NW1 2AR

The Midland Grand Dining Room was opened by the brains behind restaurants like Chiltern Firehouse, Allegra and Booking Office 1869 - so you already know this one’s going to be pretty good. You’ll find plenty of French brasserie classics here, through both a la carte and set menus.

Bardo St James

Bardo St James's

4 Suffolk Place, St James's, London, SW1Y 4HX

Bardo St James is the opulent Italian in central that transports its guests back to the la dolce vita era - with its red velvet seats, white table cloths and dim lighting. To eat, you’ll find simple dishes produced with the finest ingredients, making it a no brainer when looking for a luxury Italian.

Duck & Waffle

Duck & Waffle

110 Bishopsgate, City of London, London, EC2N 4AY

It’s long been known for its incredible views over the city, but Duck & Waffle also offers some stand out food to go with it. This is a glamorous option for your next Christmas party, bringing sophisticated decor and dishes made with luxurious ingredients.

SUSHISAMBA Covent Garden

SUSHISAMBA Covent Garden

35 The Market Building,, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 8RF

Sushisamba Covent Garden takes pride of place on top of Covent Garden’s Opera Terrace, overlooking the buzzing piazza below. This unique venue is adorned with a ‘living’ ceiling of foliage, as well as a range of bar stools and plush red velvet booths for group dining.

Hopefully, you’ve found the perfect restaurant for your festive party. If not, there are plenty of other great options. As long as your group isn’t too big, there are some great private dining rooms for Christmas to have a look at. If your group is a lot bigger, however, then it might be worth looking into these large Christmas party venues in London for hire.

Of course, nowadays people like to mix it up during the festive season. While the classic dinner party is still popular, there’s also been a rise in restaurants offering Christmas brunch. It might sound odd, but don’t knock it until you try it. It’s actually a really fun way to celebrate in a more relaxed - and more affordable - way. Otherwise, there are some cool London bars to go to for Christmas drinks, just be sure to grab some festive food on the way home.

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