Ditch the Bird: 10 London Restaurants for a Deliciously Diverse Christmas Feast

Deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa la la la, la la la la… but hold on a minute, where’s the turkey? While the traditional Christmas roast holds a special place in our hearts (and stomachs), sometimes you crave a festive feast that takes your taste buds on a global adventure. London, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, offers a delightful escape from the turkey rut. This year, ditch the bird and embrace the vibrant flavours of the world with these ten fantastic restaurants, each serving up a Christmas menu that’s anything but ordinary.

1. Maroush (Park Royal): A Lebanese Christmas Feast Fit for Royalty

Step into the warm embrace of Maroush in Park Royal, a family-run haven of Lebanese hospitality. Forget fancy Michelin stars and sky-high prices – Maroush offers a Christmas experience that’s both delicious and affordable. Their festive menu is a celebration of traditional Lebanese fare with a touch of Christmas sparkle. Think succulent mezze platters laden with dips like hummus and baba ghanoush, perfectly grilled lamb skewers, and fragrant spiced rice. Don’t miss the signature moussaka, a comforting casserole layered with creamy béchamel, spiced ground meat, and eggplant – a heartwarming alternative to the Christmas roast. With twinkling lights and festive decorations, Maroush will make your Christmas merry and bright, all without breaking the bank.

2. The Palomar (Soho): A Modern Israeli Christmas Extravaganza

Soho’s vibrant scene gets a festive twist at The Palomar, a restaurant renowned for its innovative take on Israeli cuisine. This Christmas, their six-course tasting menu is a culinary journey through the diverse flavours of the Middle East. Expect playful twists on classic dishes, like roasted Jerusalem artichokes with tahini and pomegranate, or their signature lamb shawarma reimagined with spiced figs and pine nuts. The highlight might just be the slow-cooked short rib, falling off the bone and bathed in a rich, fragrant harissa glaze. Don’t forget to indulge in their decadent selection of desserts – the pistachio baklava is a must-try. With its chic contemporary setting and a menu that’s both familiar and exciting, The Palomar offers a truly unique Christmas experience.

3. Toklas (Shoreditch): A Greek Christmas Feast to Remember

Escape the London chill and transport yourself to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with Toklas in Shoreditch. This stylish restaurant is known for its authentic Greek dishes with a modern twist. For Christmas, they’re serving up a mezze platter overflowing with seasonal delights. Think roasted beetroots with creamy feta, smoky grilled octopus drizzled with lemon, and crispy halloumi paired with sweet honey glaze. Dive into succulent slow-cooked lamb shoulder or opt for their signature moussaka, a lighter version of its Lebanese counterpart, packed with layered vegetables and a creamy béchamel sauce. Finish your festive feast with a slice of their decadent loukoumades – fluffy Greek donuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Toklas offers a vibrant and delicious alternative Christmas celebration, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

4. Jupon (Mayfair): A Peruvian Christmas Fiesta with a View

Get ready for a taste of the Andes at Jupon, a sophisticated Mayfair restaurant specializing in Peruvian cuisine. This Christmas, they’re offering a festive menu that takes inspiration from the rich tapestry of Peruvian flavours. Start your culinary adventure with a selection of ceviches – fresh seafood cured in citrusy marinades. The main course is a celebration of Peruvian staples. Savor melt-in-your-mouth grilled octopus or a succulent aji de gallina, a creamy chicken stew infused with aji amarillo peppers. Don’t miss the signature lomo saltado, a stir-fry bursting with tender beef, vegetables, and aji amarillo sauce. End your festive feast with a slice of their signature Suspiro a la Limeña – a light and fluffy meringue pie with a sweet lucuma filling. Jupon’s stunning view of Hyde Park adds a touch of magic to your Christmas experience.

5. Roe (Canary Wharf): Dive into a Seafood Extravaganza for Christmas

From the team behind the critically acclaimed Fallow comes Roe, a seafood haven in the heart of Canary Wharf. This Christmas, they’re embracing the bounty of the ocean with a meticulously curated tasting menu. Expect fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Start with delicate oysters, followed by a selection of small plates showcasing the best of British seafood. You might find plump scallops seared to perfection or a delicate langoustine carpaccio. The main course is a celebration of sustainable seafood, with options like roasted monkfish or a whole baked sea bream. The knowledgeable staff will help you choose the perfect wine pairing to elevate your festive experience.

6. Kiln (Shoreditch): A Thai Christmas with a Fiery Kick

For those who crave bold flavours and a touch of spice, Kiln in Shoreditch is the perfect destination for a fiery Christmas feast. This acclaimed Thai restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Thai cuisine, with a focus on smoky grills and vibrant flavours. Their festive menu is a celebration of Thai street food, with dishes like grilled pork neck with nahm jim jaew, a spicy dipping sauce, and succulent grilled prawns with a tamarind glaze. Don’t miss the signature pad Thai, a noodle dish with a tangy tamarind sauce, crunchy peanuts, and a perfectly cooked egg. For dessert, indulge in the refreshing coconut ice cream with a touch of salt – the perfect way to end a spicy meal. With its lively atmosphere and bold flavours, Kiln is the ideal place to celebrate Christmas with friends who love a bit of heat.

7. Lyle’s (Shoreditch): A British Christmas with a Modern Twist

For a taste of contemporary British cuisine, Lyle’s in Shoreditch is a must-visit. Their festive menu celebrates seasonal ingredients with a focus on simplicity and flavour. Expect dishes like roasted root vegetables with a rich herb butter, or a hearty beef Wellington with a flaky pastry crust. The highlight is the signature roast chicken, cooked to perfection and served with all the trimmings. To finish, indulge in a classic Christmas pudding, rich and fruity, or a lighter option like a lemon tart. Lyle’s stylish and minimalist setting creates a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a memorable Christmas dinner.

8. Lina Stores (Soho): A Taste of Italy, This Christmas

Transport yourself to the bustling streets of Italy with Lina Stores in Soho. This beloved Italian deli and restaurant offers a festive menu that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine. Start with a selection of antipasti, including cured meats, cheeses, and olives. The main course features classic Italian dishes like lasagne, ravioli, or a hearty ossobuco. Don’t forget to indulge in their decadent tiramisu or a slice of panettone, a traditional Italian Christmas cake. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Lina Stores is the perfect place to enjoy a festive Italian feast with family and friends.

9. Kricket (Soho): An Indian Christmas with a Modern Twist

For a taste of modern Indian cuisine, Kricket in Soho is the place to be. Their festive menu showcases the diversity of Indian flavours, with dishes like crispy okra with a tamarind and chili chutney, and succulent tandoori lamb chops. The highlight is the signature butter chicken, a rich and creamy curry with tender pieces of chicken. For dessert, indulge in the decadent kulfi, an Indian ice cream with a touch of cardamom and saffron. Kricket’s stylish setting and innovative dishes make it a perfect choice for a unique Christmas celebration.

10. The Wolseley (Mayfair): A Classic Christmas with a Touch of Luxury

For a truly luxurious Christmas experience, The Wolseley in Mayfair is the ultimate destination. This iconic restaurant offers a traditional Christmas menu with all the trimmings. According to CJ Digital, ‘expect a sumptuous three-course meal, starting with a selection of canapés, followed by a classic roast turkey or a festive alternative like roasted salmon.’ The dessert menu is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, with options like Christmas pudding, mince pies, and a decadent chocolate Yule log. The Wolseley’s elegant Art Deco setting and impeccable service create a truly unforgettable Christmas experience.

Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas feast with a modern twist or a global culinary adventure, London has something for everyone. So ditch the turkey and embrace the diverse flavours of the world this Christmas.