For the meat lovers
Where: Gaucho
The low-down: For anyone already accustomed with Gaucho Dubai, then you'll know you're in for a true Christmas experience. Meat is their expertise - prime cuts, generously sized and perfectly seasoned - and the setting is dark and cosy. This year they're indulging in a brunch style package, Argentinian style. Shared starters include Lobster Tacos, Tuna Ceviche and Empanadas. Mains move in to a hearty roast with all the trimmings. (For anyone not inclined to eat beef on Christmas day, then Turkey is also available). Apple Crumble, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Strawberry Mess, (a twist on the eton classic), ensue for dessert. Decorations and christmas crackers are also aplenty.
For the ladies who like to lunch
Where: Flamingo Room By Tashas
The low-down: Forget the food - which, by the way, is tantalising - Flamingo Room by Tashas is quite possibly the most lavishly lady-like spot in Dubai. A colour palette of cream, peach and gold make up the interiors while ornate decorations spiral from the walls and ceiling. If you like your Christmas to look opulent and quixotic, then this one is for you. There's no set menu for the season, instead they're usual sumptuous dishes continue. We recommend plenty of sharing style plates from the Burrata and Prawn Avo Ritz, to the Octopus Carpaccio, and Butternut Gnocchi and Cashew Cream. Keep in mind that Tashas' is of South African descent, so a few meat dishes are a must. The Beef Fillet and Peri-Peri Baby Chicken are high on the MOJEH list.
For a Christmas day chillout
Where: Chival, La Ville
The low-down: Unlike the glitz and glam of many Dubai haunts, Chival offers great food and impeccable service but in a laid-back, unassuming environment. Big, open glass doors surround the cool and contemporary restaurant area and an open courtyard feels grounded and authentic. Food isn't OTT, but instead it's great quality and familiar. For Christmas, Chival are serving their traditional roast with all the trimmings - stuffing, turkey gravy, chestnuts and cranberry sauce, to name a few - and you can choose to either dine in or preorder for your festivities at home.
Aed450 for 2 people, or aed750 for 4 people | From 25th November until 25th December | La Ville Hotel, Dubai +971 (0) 54 309 5948
For an Asian style celebration
Where: Masti, La Mer
The low-down: Masti translates to ‘fun and mischief’. Sounds perfect for a joyous Christmas day? Award winning chef Hari Nayak brings a reimagining of Indian cuisine to Dubai’s La Mer. Think bao buns with an Asian twist and mushroom and truffle cream inside miniature ice-cream cones. Epic food aside, you’ll be hard pressed not to feel inspired by the indulgent interiors, (tropical prints, jungle motifs and a quirky terrace perfect to while away the hours). Celebrate the Masti way with an a la carte style brunch, inclusive of Masti favourites such as Mango and Avocado Ceviche and Burrata Truffle Pizza. For mains, Pulled Turkey Bao and Masti Beef Wellington sound divine.
