It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but nothing puts a damper on festivities quite like the stress of planning the perfect day out. Luckily, we've compiled an edit of MOJEH-approved venues to spend the festive season, from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day.
Chic Nonna
Dine at award-winning haute spot Chic Nonna this festive season and devour a special holiday menu of authentic Italian delights, including lobster catalana with caviar, slow-cooked lamb shank and the aptly named "Christmas Tree" dessert with candied orange and milk chocolate ganache. Don't forget to head upstairs to Salotto by Chic Nonna for an after-dinner drink. Book now
Avli by Tashas
Ring in 2023 at one of Dubai's favourite restaurants, and be treated to a sophisticated evening of Greek cuisine. The "Nomad Chic" party will serve its award-winning a la carte menu alongside specially curated grape and live entertainment until the early hours. Book now
Hutong
Searching for something different this festive season? Skip the turkey and opt for elevated Asian cuisine. Hutong will be hosting its Festive Imperial Brunch on 24 and 25 December and 1 January, where guests can tuck into an array of dim-sum and starters alongside a main dish and dessert of your choice. Book now
LPM Restaurant & Bar (Dubai and Abu Dhabi)
A tried-and-trusted favourite, LPM Restaurant & Bar Dubai and LPM Restaurant & Bar Abu Dhabi are celebrating Christmas Eve with an exquisite dinner of signature dishes including chicken and foie gras ballotine, langoustine ravioli with truffle and roasted turbot with artichokes. If you'd rather celebrate on the 25th, you can indulge in the same offerings at the Dubai outpost. Book now
Amazonico
Experience a Latin American twist on tradition with Amazonico's Jingle Bell Brunch. Taking place on 25 December, the brunch reinvents festive favourites - think: roast turkey breast served with potato puree, quinoa and green apple and Argentinian herbal-infused creme brûlée. Wander onto the rooftop where the after party kicks off at 4pm. Rather celebrate New Year's Eve? Head down for the Studio 54-inspired Jungle Fever Ball for a selection of signatures, bottle service and all-night tunes. Book now
Roberto's
If the theme of a New Year's Eve party is 'the greatest show on Earth' you know it is going to be a night to remember. The Italian fine-dining institution is offering a selection of delicious dishes until 4am (yes, you read that right) to be enjoyed alongside views of the world-famous Burj Khalifa fireworks. Book now
Dream Dubai
Celebrate the New Year with the ultimate dining experience at Dream Dubai. Providing dinner and a show, expect mesmerising performances and non-stop dancing alongside a carefully curated set menu. With a cocktail chic dress code, this one calls for your most show-stopping ensemble. Book now
Carine
Christmas weekend will see Carine transforming into a winter wonderland. Guests will enjoy live entertainment while enjoying a bespoke menu devised by Chef Izu himself. Menu highlights will include mountain tomato with goat cheese salad and Foie Gras Terrine with homemade balsamic reduction, served with cherry chutney and toasted brioche. For those wanting to share, guests can opt for fresh seafood platters available in two sizes. This tiered platter features the world’s best caviar, shucked oysters and fresh lobster. For mains, diners can savour the whole rack of lamb with herb crust, and finish triumphantly with the salted chocolate caramel with malt ice cream. Book now
Demon Duck
Booked up for the festive weekend and New Year's Eve? Add an evening of whimsical Pan-Asian cuisine to your calendar, courtesy of Demon Duck. Offering an a la carte menu for dinner on 1 January, you can't go amiss with its signature slow roasted demon duck. Book now
Zuma
Start 2023 off the right way at award-winning Japanese destination Zuma. The New Year's Day brunch - available at both Dubai and Abu Dhabi branches - puts a sophisticated twist on Japan's casual izakaya eateries and marries Zuma classics with specialty dishes. Book now
Tasca
With unobstructed views of the Dubai skyline on one side and the Arabian Gulf on the other, you couldn't ask for a better setting to welcome the New Year. Indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine courtesy of a five-course set menu, alongside bubbles and live music. Book now
Bar Du Port
For festive fun, BDP (as it is referred to by its many regulars) has luxurious brunch running on both 24 and 25 December. The specialised menu features tropical tuna ceviche, foie gras and chicken terrine, turkey roll and Christmas praline chocolate yule log for the finisher. Guests can sip unlimited beverages whilst listening to live entertainment with views of Dubai Harbour – a very Dubai Christmas indeed. Book now
