Hang on to Your Baubles: The 2016 Beijing Christmas Dining Guide
[UPDATED Wednesday, December 21]
Hang on to your Santa hats: Christmas is here and venues around town are doing their utmost to dish up the most festive meal for you and your extended family away from home. Many restaurants have already announced their Christmas meals, giving you plenty of time to book your place early so that you can focus on much more important endeavors like bagging all your presents on Taobao and calculating how many glasses of mulled wine you can drink without getting hungover.
We've divided the events below by location and listed set meals, buffets, and other events happening on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For a full list of Christmas events, visit thebeijinger.com/events/christmas. We'll update these offerings as we get closer to the big day.
SANLITUN
Christmas Eve/Day dinner at Big Smoke
Available throughout the festive period, The Big Smoke have a large selection of festive dishes and sides available to eat in or take away, including honey glazed turkeys, roasted garlic mash, and homemade stuffing. From RMB 450 for a small turkey (serves 3). 5pm-midnight. The Big Smoke
Christmas Eve dinner at Buona Bocca
Enjoy a traditional Italian style meat-free Christmas Eve at Buona Bocca, where they are putting on a five-course menu of fantastic fish dishes, accompanied by carefully paired wines. Finish with a dessert of pandoro with marscapone cream. RMB 398.88. 6.30pm-2am. Buona Bocca
Christmas Eve dinner at Char Dining Room and Lounge
Have your Christmas Eve dinner at Char on the third floor of the new Intercontinental Hotel Sanlitun where they are serving up a menu of luxurious dishes such as foie gras, black truffle, Alaskan king crab, Australian wagyu beef, and king prawns, accompanied by a live DJ performance. RMB 1,288, RMB 1,988 (with wine pairing).11.30am-2.30pm. Char Dining Room and Lounge (Intercontinental Hotel Sanlitun)
Christmas Day lunch at Char Dining Room and Lounge
Blow away the Christmas hangover with a mouth-watering festive brunch starring golden roast turkey, fresh seafood and a wide array of traditional Christmas sweets and treats. You’ll enjoy a glass of champagne on arrival, and free-flow of Char's signature red, white and sparkling wines, as well as imported beer, fresh juices, and soft drinks. RMB 888.11.30am-2.30pm. Char Dining Room and Lounge (Intercontinental Hotel Sanlitun)
Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas Day lunch at Migas
Enjoy a six-course menu of modern Spanish cooking at Migas this Christmas, feature foie gras, quail, and Iberian pork. RMB 428, RMB 668 (with wine pairing). Noon-3pm, 6-10.30pm. Migas
Christmas Eve dinner at Mosto
A favorite at any time of the year, Mosto invites you to dine in candlelight on Christmas Eve. Chef Juan Mateus will be cooking up a four course menu of new dishes and signature Mosto favorites. RMB 398. 5.30-10.30pm. Mosto
Christmas Day lunch at Mosto
Whether you're recovering from a hangover or homesick, Mosto's comforting three-course brunch will ease all your holiday woes. Add free-flow sparkling, red, and whites wines, and cocktails, for RMB 188. The brunch is also available on New Year's Day. RMB 248. 10am-3pm. Mosto
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at O'Steak
Add a bit of French fancy to your Christmas with O'Steak's set menus. Choose from three courses or go all out with a five-course menu including lobster soup and foie gras terrine. Available at all three O'Steak locations. RMB 288/588. 6pm-late. O'Steak
Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas Day Brunch at Slow Boat Sanlitun Brewpub
Head to Slow Boat's newest location for a three-course Christmas extravaganza. Choose from a range of starters, mains, and desserts, including home-cured salmon and classic turkey. Add three 450ml beers for RMB 75. RMB 280. 11am-2pm, 6-9pm. Slow Boat Sanlitun Brewpub
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at Sureno
This year, Sureno will be serving a five-course festive menu including a choice of main course (beef tenderloin, grilled halibut, or gnocchi) and ending with a raspberry chocolate yule log. RMB 588. 6-10pm. Sureno
Chrismas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at The Rug
The Rug has a range of festive set menus for two to suit every budget, from the simple to the extravagant. Go all out with the RMB 999 set menu, which includes grilled T-bone and Boston lobster. RMB 399/499/999. 5-11pm. The Rug
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Q Mex
Available throughout the festive period, Q Mex's three-course menu is a steal. Choose from a couple of different starters, then follow that up with a main course of roast turkey and Christmas ham. Menu price includes a drink RMB 218. 11am-midnight. Q Mex
DONGCHENG
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at Cafe de la Poste
Enjoy a truly French Christmas at Cafe de la Poste, with their four-course menu featuring foie gras, confit duck, a cheese platter, and more. Seatings at 6.30pm and 9pm. RMB 298. 6.30pm-late. Cafe de la Poste
Christmas Eve at Capital M
With roaring fireplaces and one of the best views in town, Capital M is a great choice to kick off your Christmas celebrations with Champagne and canapés, followed by a four-course menu of Christmas classics (plenty of choices for everyone if you're not a turkey fan). RMB 688. 6-10.30pm. Capital M
Christmas Day at Capital M
Capital M has created a special four-course brunch menu of modern European food just for Christmas day. Enjoy it while looking out over one of the best restaurant views in town! RMB 588. 11.30am-3pm. Capital M
Christmas Eve/Day dinner at The Georg
A specially created menu of tasty new winter dishes, each course is accented with notes of Nordic Christmas tradition. The seven-course dinner begins with The Georg's "æbleskive" shitake bun and smoked celeriac taco snacks alongside a glass of Champagne Devaux. Add an optional wine pairing for RMB 788. RMB 888. 6-10.30pm. The Georg
Christmas Eve dinner at Fly By Knight Courtyard
Head to Fly By Knight (a hostel in Dongcheng) for a shared Christmas feast featuring roast turkey and all the trimmings, sweet pies, and drinks. 15 percent of the event will be donated to a school for differently abled children on the outskirts of Beijing that the hostel cooperates with. RMB 180 (paid in advance on WeChat/Alipay). 7pm-late. Fly By Knight Courtyard
Christmas Eve lunch/dinner at Mercante
Mercante presents a selection of classic meat-free recipes from Emilia-Romagna for Christmas Eve. Only 30 seats available. RMB 250 (lunch), RMB 350 (dinner), RMB 250 (wine pairing). Noon-midnight. Mercante
Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Mercante
Christmas continues at Mercante with a five-course Christmas Day menu inspired by the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna. Only 30 seats available. RMB 250 (lunch), RMB 350 (dinner), RMB 250 (wine pairing). 6pm-midnight. Mercante
Christmas Eve dinner at Morton's
Join Morton's of Chicago for a slap-up Christmas dinner this year with a massive selection of food and trimmings that will guarantee that you'll be on the prowl for a sofa to fall asleep on before you know it. Highlights include shrimp cocktail, filet mignon, and Morton's legendary hot chocolate cake. RMB 988. 5-11pm. Morton's of Chicago
Christmas Eve dinner at The Orchid
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, Festivus or anything else, enjoy the holiday season with a set menu of new winter dishes (plus a hot and boozy welcome drink) at The Orchid's restaurant, Toast. RMB 188. 6-10pm. The Orchid
Christmas Day lunch at Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng
Live cooking stations serving international food, plus free-flow champagne, will make Sherton's Christmas day brunch one to remember. See the event listing for details of Christmas festivities at their other dining venues. RMB 568. 11.30am-2.30pm. Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng
Christmas Eve dinner at Tian Tan Kitchen (New World Hotel)
There's a bit of something for everyone at New World Hotel's free-flow Christmas extravaganza, including roast turkey, fresh seafood, and Chinese specialties. RMB 688, RMB 588 (before December 15). 6-10pm. Tian Tan Kitchen
LIANGMAQIAO
Christmas Eve lunch/dinner at Fiume
According to tradition, Fiume have prepared a meat-free menu for the 24th. Lunch time includes three or five-course set lunches inspired by classic dishes from Emilia Romagna. At dinner a five-course set dinner is proposed with an optional pairing of five Italian wines. Only 30 seats available. RMB 250 (three courses), RMB 350 (five courses), RMB 250 (wine pairing). Noon-midnight. Fiume
Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Fiume
Classic home-style dishes are the name of the game for Fiume's first Christmas day celebrations, with thee and five-course menus available at lunch, and a five-course dinner at night, plus options Italian wine pairing. RMB 250 (three courses), RMB 350 (five courses), RMB 250 (wine pairing). Noon-midnight. Fiume
Christmas Day lunch at Kranzler's
Enjoy a buffet of German-influenced seasonal delights, plus free flow Mumm Champagne and Paulaner Beer at Kranzler's, all accompanied by a live jazz performance. RMB 598. 11.30am-3pm. Kranzler's (Kempinski Beijing Hotel Lufthansa Center)
Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Mio
Give your taste buds a very merry Christmas with a spectacular five-course Christmas feast of festive Italian recipes by Mio’s Chef Aniello Turco. Exceptional holiday selections including Langoustine and caviar, Foie gras with balsamic pearls, and Panettone tart. Two seatings available for dinner: 5.30-8.15pm and 8.30-10.30pm. RMB 988. 11.30am-10.30pm. Mio (Four Seasons Beijing)
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day lunch at Opus Lounge (Four Seasons)
Enjoy a buffet of festive favorites pus decadent desserts such as chocolate log and Christmas bread pudding. RMB 498, RMB 598 (with free-flow champagne). Noon-3pm. Opus Lounge
CBD/SHUANGJING
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at Bistrot B
Kick things up a notch with dinner at Rosewood Beijing's Bistrot B, where they will be serving a five-course fine dining menu, including Alaskan king crab salad, duo of Australian wagyu beef, and Bûche de Noël. RMB 920, RMB 1,380 (with wine pairing). 5.30-10.30pm. Bistrot B
Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas Day lunch at Caravan
This year, Caravan is throwing a Christmas feast in the spirit of Bethlehem with an assortment of Moroccan and Middle Eastern goodies. The menu includes a shared mezze plate, shorba soup, roast leg of lamb, cous cous, and more. Vegetarian/vegan options available. RMB 198 (advance). 11am-3pm, 6-10.30pm. Caravan
Christmas Eve dinner at China World Hotel
China World Hotel is celebrating Christmas Eve with a bang, putting on a huge festive ball in the hotel lobby. Expect a sumptuous buffet and a lucky draw (there is also 50 percent off room rates if you want to stay the night and sleep it off). RMB 3,288. 6-10pm. China World Hotel
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day lunch/dinner at House of Dynasties (Rosewood Beijing)
Designed for four people or above, House of Dynasties are offering a Chinese fine dining menu featuring wok-fried lobster and slow-braised beef, among many other dishes. RMB 1,128, RMB 1,388 (with wine pairing). 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm. House of Dynasties (Rosewood Beijing)
Christmas Eve dinner at Kerry's Kitchen
The chefs at Kerry's Kitchen conjure up a host of culinary Christmas delights and treats for the whole family on Christmas Eve, including all the festive must haves. Kids get access to the Adventure Zone play area. RMB 388, RMB 588 (with free-flow drinks). 5.30-10pm. Kerry's Kitchen
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Lily's American Diner
Lily's is a classic choice for a good value Christmas dinner, with a four-course menu served all day on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Available at all three Lily's locations. Whole roast turkeys and side dishes also available for delivery. RMB 259. All day. Lily's American Diner
Christmas Day lunch at Lunar 8 (Fairmont Beijing)
Enjoy a sumptuous brunch with free-flow sparkling wine and mulled wine, as well as the chance to win prizes such as a family trip to Shanghai disney. RMB 588. 11.30am-3pm. Lunar 8
Christmas Eve dinner at Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel
Journey to an enchanted forest for this gala dinner, including a five-course meal, performances, and prizes. RMB 1,688 (children under 1.2m free). 6.30-midnight. Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel
Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas Day lunch/dinner at The Cut (Fairmont Beijing)
Enjoy a sumptuous meal for two at Fairmont Beijing's renowned steak house, The Cut. The price includes a six-course dinner for two featuring Australian wagyu beef and roast turkey from the carving trolley, plus wine pairing. RMB 2,188 per couple (including wine pairing). 11.30am-11pm. The Cut
798/LIDO/WANGJING
Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas Day lunch at Tim's Texas Bar-B-Q
Enjoy a down home Christmas at Tim's Texas Bar-B-Q Wangjing location, including a main course of roast beef and roast ham with Southern-style trimmings, and ending with a slice of apple pie. RMB 198, RMB 68 (children under 12). Noon-midnight. Tim's Texas Bar-B-Q
Christmas Eve dinner at Tribe Lido
Tribe's Lido location will be transformed into a secret forest on Christmas Eve featuring healthy (but not too healthy) food, Christmas drinks, games, and a secret Santa gift exchange. Proceeds from the dinner will go to Morning Star Foundation, a charity that helps abandoned children and orphans who are suffering from congenital heart disease. From RMB 268. 6.30-9pm. Tribe
Christmas at Hffousa Taco
Enjoy a set Christmas meal for two or four at family-friendly Mexican restaurant Hffousa Taco in Indigo Mall on December 24 (their Christmas decorations are pictured above). For full menu details check event listing. RMB 458 (for two), RMB 798 (for four). 10am-10pm. Hfoussa Taco
XICHENG
Christmas Eve dinner at Greenfish
Enjoy a huge buffet of local and international dishes, including seafood and traditional Christmas classics. Don't miss the lucky draw and an appearance from Santa Claus. RMB 1,288. 5.30-9.30pm. Greenfish (Ritz Carlton Beijing Financial Street)
Christmas Day lunch at Greenfish
Greenfish's festive menu presents fresh seafood; amazing honey glazed ham; traditional roast turkey with condiments; juicy roasted prime rib; and roasted fine herb marinated beef tenderloin with shallot jus. RMB 588. 11.30am-2.30pm. Greenfish (Ritz Carlton Beijing Financial Street)
Christmas Eve Dinner at Westin Beijing Financial Street
Westin's Senses and Prego Restaurants will feature a lavish buffet that stretches from Senses all the way through to Prego and includes an impressive selection of fresh seafood on ice, roasted turkey and all its trimmings and a huge array of sinful Christmas desserts and sweets. There will also be live entertainment and shows and a selection of Lucky Draw prizes to be won. RMB 1,888. 5.30-10.30pm. The Westin Beijing Financial Street
Christmas Day lunch/dinner at Westin Beijing Financial Street
Enjoy a buffet of festive favorites such as fresh seafood on ice, roasted turkey and all its trimmings and a huge array of sinful Christmas desserts and sweets, accompanied by free-flow Veuve Cliquot. RMB 568. 11am-10.30pm. The Westin Beijing Financial Street
OUT OF TOWN
Christmas Eve dinner at The Brickyard
Head out to Mutianyu for probably your best chance of seeing a white Christmas. Join The Brickyard for their annual Christmas Eve dinner, followed by caroling, or make a night of it and stay overnight. RMB 268 (dinner), RMB 2,688 (overnight package). 6pm-mignight. The Brickyard Retreat Center
Christmas Day lunch at The Brickyard
Journey to The Brickyard at Mutianyu for some fresh air and a homemade Christmas lunch. Kids can make cookies while adults enjoy live jazz in the Lodge. RMB 238, RMB 138 (children 4-12 and students). 11am-4pm. The Brickyard Retreat Center
Christmas Eve dinner at Paulaner Brauhaus, Sunrise Kempinski
Enjoy a traditional German-style set menu, along with home-brewed Paulaner beer and a live band. RMB 348. 6-9pm. Sunrise Kempinski
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day dinner at Seawolf Eatery & Distillery
If you're looking to dine out for Christmas in Changping, Seawolf will be serving a traditional American Christmas feast. RMB 399, RMB 349 (advance). 5pm-midnight. Seawolf Eatery & Distillery
Christmas Eve dinner at Sunrise Kempinski
Sunrise Kempinski in Huairou are holding a traditional European Christmas Eve dinner, with a buffet of roast turkey, Christmas pudding, eggnog, mulled wine, and more. RMB 888, RMB 388 (children aged 6-12). 6-10pm. Sunrise Kempinski
Christmas Day lunch at Hilton Beijing Capital Airport
A great location to take the kids, Hilton Beijing Capital Airport are not only putting on a full festive buffet (including free flow drinks for the adults), they have also arranged a kids playroom, a huge Christmas tree, and lots of fun activities throughout the day. RMB 438. 1130am-3pm. Hilton Beijing Capital Airport
Christmas Eve dinner at Aman Summer Palace
Head out to Aman Summer Palace for a peaceful Christmas Eve dinner featuring specialties from their western and Japanese restaurants. Dinner is accompanied by live Christmas music and kids should look out for a visit from Santa! RMB 1,388. 6-10pm. The Grill (Aman Summer Palace)
Christmas Day lunch at Aman Summer Palace
Head out to Aman Summer Palace for Christmas Day brunch in serene surroundings, with a menu including a barbecue grill platter, fresh homemade pasta, and French pastries, followed by a walk in the imperial grounds. RMB 688. Noon-2pm. The Grill (Aman Summer Palace)
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Photos courtesy of the venues
