Dozens of restaurants across South East London will open their doors on December 25th, offering everything from casual meals to luxury dining experiences. At least 93 establishments are currently accepting Christmas Day bookings through major reservation platforms, with options ranging from cozy riverside taverns to upscale hotel restaurants.
Don’t cook this Christmas—93 South East London restaurants await, from riverside taverns to luxury hotels.
Diners can choose venues based on their budget preferences, with casual restaurants offering main courses from £15 to £30, mid-range festive menus priced between £100 and £200, and luxury hotel experiences exceeding £500 per person.
Traditional Christmas fare dominates most menus, with roast turkey and all the trimmings taking center stage. Alternatives like beef wellington, seabass, and halibut appear frequently for those seeking something different.
Vegetarian and vegan diners need not worry, as most venues now include plant-based options such as celeriac wellington, pithiviers, and January King cabbage dishes. Dessert selections typically feature Christmas pudding with brandy sauce, yule logs, and chocolate fondants, often accompanied by optional champagne packages or wine pairings.
Notable venues include the Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich, offering a three-course menu for approximately £135, and Skylon on the South Bank with its four-course offering at around £125 per adult, complete with river views. The Anglesea Arms provides a festive three-course menu featuring vegan haggis and other delicious options for £107. For a unique holiday dining experience, some venues have embraced the concept of heated igloos similar to Coppa Club at Tower Bridge, providing intimate spaces with festive decor.
The London Bridge area shows particular concentration of available venues, with numerous restaurants accepting bookings through platforms like OpenTable and TheFork. Some establishments like Oma offer private wine annexes for groups looking to enjoy communal dining with Italian-inspired shared plates.
Those planning Christmas dining should consider party size restrictions, as policies vary greatly between venues. While hotel restaurants often accommodate larger groups, smaller establishments may cap party sizes.
Advance booking is strongly recommended due to high demand and limited seating. Many restaurants require deposits or prepayment, with specific cancellation policies in place.
Price-conscious diners might consider casual chain restaurants, which typically offer more affordable festive menus while still providing a break from home cooking on Christmas Day.
