Top 5 Venues for a Festive Christmas Dinner in Bristol

The joy of gathering around a table filled with festive dishes in a warm and inviting setting is what makes Christmas really special. Bristol is one of the best places for Christmas dinners because of its unique blend of local flavours, talented chefs, and lively dining scene. The city’s rich culture and history add to the magic of the holiday season. As the Christmas season approaches, the excitement for Christmas dinner in Bristol begins to build. From cosy pubs to elegant restaurants, Bristol is home to a wide variety of venues that cater to all tastes, making it a fantastic place for a memorable Christmas Day dinner. Imagine enjoying a traditional feast with all the trimmings, or perhaps you’re interested in trying a delicious vegan Christmas dinner that delights your taste buds. Whatever your preference, Bristol has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top 5 locations for a festive Bristol Christmas dinner, making sure your holiday is brimming with happiness and great food!
7 October 2024 7 min read
A Christmas dinner in Bristol

Top 5 Festive Dining Spots for Christmas Day Dinner in Bristol

Get ready to explore some fantastic venues and make this holiday season unforgettable with amazing dining experiences that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re seeking a cosy pub atmosphere or an elegant dining setting, Bristol has it all for a wonderful Christmas Day dinner!

1. Lost and Found 

The Lost and Found restaurant is a Christmas day dinner venue in Bristol.

The Lost & Found restaurant is a beautiful place to enjoy a Christmas day dinner in Bristol. For Christmas, they have special menus that cater to different tastes and needs. 

The Festive Fayre Menu features a variety of classic and innovative dishes, with an emphasis on rich flavours. Some of the standout items include Josper-grilled steaks, a signature dish at the restaurant, and slow-cooked beef ragu pappardelle, a hearty and warming option for the cold season.

For those with specific dietary needs, the Festive NGCI Menu (Non-Gluten Containing Ingredients) ensures that everyone can enjoy a festive meal without worrying about gluten. The restaurant also offers a festive buffet menu, which provides a broader selection of dishes, which is ideal for larger groups or those looking for more variety.

In terms of drinks, the Drinks Festive Package is a must-try. The bar is known for its creative cocktails, including the signature Elizabeth E. Lightfoot cocktail made with Gosling’s Black Rum and Yellow Chartreuse. 

With its cosy, elegant ambience and delightful food and drinks, The Lost & Found offers a perfect venue for a Christmas day dinner in Bristol.

Highlights

  • Address: The Lost & Found, 85 Queens Road Bristol, BS8 1QS.
  • Guests: Up to 75 guests.
  • Cuisine: Bar, British, Grill
  • Price: Starts at £29 per person.
  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

2. The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie offers Christmas dinner in Bristol.

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie is a beautiful place to enjoy a special Christmas dinner in Bristol. This restaurant offers a cosy and festive atmosphere that makes it perfect for celebrating the holiday season with family and friends.

For Christmas dinner, you can choose a delicious three-course meal. You can start your meal with the famous Ivy 1917 Cure Smoked Salmon. The main course offers some delightful choices. You can enjoy succulent Goose, a traditional Turkey, or a comforting Duck Shepherd’s Pie. If you prefer something vegetarian, the Foraged Wild Mushroom and Truffle Linguine is a fantastic option that is both rich and flavourful.

When it comes to dessert, you won’t want to miss the Ivy Chocolate Bombe. This dessert is a showstopper with its rich chocolate taste. In addition to the food, The Ivy Clifton Brasserie has a great selection of drinks to complement your dinner. You can enjoy festive cocktails, fine wines, and warm beverages to make your Christmas dinner even more special.

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie is one of the best places for Christmas dinner in Bristol, offering a memorable experience with unique dishes and festive drinks. 

Highlights

  • Address: The Ivy Clifton Brasserie, Caledonia Place, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4DN, UK.
  • Guests: Up to 150 guests.
  • Cuisine: European.
  • Price: Starts at £36 per person.
  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.0/5

3. Racks Bar and Kitchen

The Racks Bar and Kitchen is a cosy Christmas dinner venue in Bristol.

Racks Bar and Kitchen in Bristol is a beautiful venue for a festive Christmas dinner. Located in the vibrant Clifton area, it’s known for its warm and large space, making it a great place for holiday gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues. 

The Christmas menu is something special, featuring a delicious three-course feast that truly captures the spirit of the season. They also offer a version of their own À La Carte menu, including options for a vegan Christmas dinner in Bristol. A standout during the festive season is their Slow-cooked Turkey with all the trimmings, which is perfect for a traditional Christmas meal. For those looking for a touch of luxury, they offer unique options like Rich Venison with winter vegetables.

In addition to the cuisine, the drinks menu at the Apres Bar at Racks features a wide selection of festive cocktails and mulled wine, ideal for getting into the Christmas spirit. Their craft beers and fine wines are also popular choices to accompany the meal. 

Whether you’re after a classic Christmas Day dinner in Bristol or something a little different, Racks Bar and Kitchen has something for everyone during the festive season.

Highlights

  • Address:  St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LX, UK.
  • Guests: Up to 150 guests.
  • Cuisine: British.
  • Price: Starts at £20 per person.
  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.0/5

4. Browns Bristol 

Browns Bristol is a stylish venue offering Christmas dinners in Bristol.

Browns Bristol restaurant is a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas dinner. Located in the heart of Bristol, this restaurant offers a festive atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends, family, or colleagues. 

One of their Christmas menu highlights is the traditional oak-smoked Atlantic Salmon. You might also want to try their indulgent specials like Pan-Seared Scallops, Brown Shrimp, or the Mint-Crusted Rack of Lamb. To finish off your meal, you can enjoy their classic Christmas Pudding, a must-have during this time of year, which perfectly rounds out the festive dining experience. 

Browns Bristol is especially great for group bookings, making it a perfect spot for work Christmas parties or large social events.  With its inviting atmosphere and exceptional dishes, Browns Bristol truly captures the spirit of Christmas dining, making it one of the best Christmas dinners in Bristol that you won’t want to miss.

Highlights

  • Address: 38 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1RE, UK.
  • Guests: Up to 120 guests.
  • Cuisine: British, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes.
  • Price: Starts at £95 per person.
  • TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5

5. The Square Club

The Square Club is offering Christmas dinner in Bristol.

The Square Club in Bristol is a fantastic choice for a memorable Christmas dinner. This elegant location has a warm and friendly ambience that is ideal for celebrating the holiday season with friends and family.

One of the highlights of their festive menu is the Braised Blade of Beef Forestiere, creating a delightful blend of flavours. For seafood enthusiasts, Moroccan spiced salmon is a one-of-a-kind meal. The Square Club takes pride in offering both traditional and modern cuisines, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.

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This Christmas, make your dinner in Bristol extra special at the Square Club, where the combination of great food and festive cheer will make your celebration memorable.

Highlights

  • Address: 15 Berkeley Square, Bristol BS8 1HB, UK.
  • Guests: Up to 100 guests.
  • Cuisine: British.
  • Price: Starts at £85 per person.
  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.0/5

Make Your Christmas Dinner in Bristol Stress-Free 

Planning a Christmas dinner in Bristol can be a big task, especially when you want everything perfect for your guests. While some restaurants offer special Christmas meals, dining out during the holiday season can be stressful. Busy restaurants often have large crowds, making it hard to enjoy your meal peacefully. You might have to wait a long time for your food, and the noise can make having nice conversations with your family and friends difficult. 

Instead of dealing with the chaos of a restaurant, think about hiring a private chef. With yhangry, you can find a chef in Bristol who can create a Christmas dinner just for you. They will work with you to design a menu that fits your tastes and any dietary needs your guests might have. This way, you can relax and enjoy the holiday without worrying about food quality or portion sizes.

A private chef lets you enjoy a delicious meal in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by your loved ones. This holiday season, choosing a private caterer means you can enjoy a special, stress-free Bristol Christmas dinner that everyone will remember.

FAQS

Booking your Christmas dinner catering as early as possible is highly recommended, especially during the busy holiday season. Aim to secure your catering service several weeks to even months in advance. This will give you the best chance of securing your desired date and preferred chef, like those from yhangry, who can create a memorable dining experience. Early booking also allows for better planning and menu customisation, giving you peace of mind as the event approaches.

Christmas Day dinners in Bristol typically feature a blend of traditional and modern dishes. Classic dishes include roast turkey with all the trimmings, such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Many restaurants also incorporate local ingredients, creating unique dishes that reflect Bristol’s culinary scene. For instance, you might find options like vegan nut roasts, smoked salmon starters, or a festive twist on classic desserts such as gingerbread cheesecake or spiced mulled wine poached pears. Many venues also provide customisable menus, allowing you to select dishes that suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Prices for Christmas dinners in Bristol vary substantially based on where you go and what’s on the menu. A three-course lunch typically costs between £25 to £60 per person. Some upscale restaurants may charge extra, particularly if they employ unusual foods or provide a more opulent eating experience. Many businesses also offer set menus with predetermined prices, which makes budgeting easier. It’s a good idea to hunt for early-bird offers or discounts for bigger parties, which can help make your holiday feast more economical.