Feast in festive splendour – discover London’s best Christmas dining destinations
The Luxury Channel discovers the London restaurants with lashings of seasonal cheer, courtesy of style influencer Coral Manson….
As the festive season envelops London in its twinkling embrace, the city’s culinary scene comes alive with a tapestry of flavours and experiences that capture the holiday spirit. From traditional British fare to international delights, London’s restaurants offer a cornucopia of festive menus designed to enchant and indulge. Here are my three standout establishments – all very different – but each offering a unique festive dining experience that promises to make this season truly memorable.
Angler – A Symphony of Seafood Elegance
Perched atop the beautiful South Place Hotel in the heart of London’s financial district, Angler is a Michelin-starred haven for seafood aficionados. This festive season, Head Chef Craig Johnston – a former Masterchef winner who went on to spend six years working under Marcus Wareing – has curated a menu that harmoniously blends traditional flavours with contemporary finesse. The journey begins with a playful Tunworth cheese cornetto adorned with candied walnuts, setting the stage for the delights to follow. Starters like the crispy pig’s head, complemented by cranberry ketchup, smoked bacon and tarragon, showcase a masterful balance of textures and tastes. For mains, the slow-cooked ox cheek, served with pomme purée, bresaola, and winter truffle – or a beautiful chunk of steamed halibut with St Austell Bay mussels – epitomise comfort and luxury. Desserts such as the carrot cake and orange bavarois with mince pie ice-cream provide a sweet finale to this exquisite dining experience.
Vori – Greek Festivity In The Heart of Holland Park
Nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Holland Park, with the lovely fashion boutiques and cute shops of Notting Hill just a stone’s throw away, Vori brings the warmth of Greek hospitality to London’s festive scene. Their Hristougena Menu, available until 22nd December, embodies the essence of Greek Christmas traditions. Designed for sharing, the menu features dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. Think slow-roasted turkey leg with chestnuts, apricots and raisins or a fresh persimmon salad with shaved kaseri cheese, walnuts and honey dressing. This multi-course menu comes in at a very reasonable £80 per head. A relaxed and friendly affair, Vori’s commitment to authentic flavours and communal dining ensures a convivial and heartwarming experience.
Imperial Treasure – A Chinese Culinary Celebration
For those seeking an opulent dining experience, Imperial Treasure in London’s St. James’s offers a four-course festive set menu available until 1st January 2025. Renowned for its refined Chinese cuisine, the restaurant presents dishes that marry tradition with luxury. Its Christmas offering starts with the signature Peking duck, a beautiful ruby-red glazed creation served alongside a selection of freshly-made dim sum. Main dishes include sauteed beef tenderloin with garlic chips and cranberry, and creamy king prawn with black truffles. Imperial Treasure’s reputation for excellence guarantees that this is a selection that will delight the senses and provide a memorable celebration of the season. For a nightcap, the venerable Dukes Hotel bar is a stone’s throw away, where you’ll find London’s best martinis being mixed.
In a city as diverse as London, the festive dining options are as varied as they are delightful. Whether you’re drawn to the sophisticated seafood at Angler, the communal warmth of Vori’s Greek offerings, or the luxurious experience at Imperial Treasure, London’s restaurants provide the perfect settings to celebrate the season. Embrace the opportunity to explore these culinary gems and create lasting memories with loved ones during this most magical time of year.
You can find Coral showcasing style, travel and dining trends on Instagram at @stripeycoral.
