The Best Restaurants for Festive Dining in London

Christmas is around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by booking one of London’s most festive dining rooms? December transforms the city’s restaurant scene, with established favourites and newer hotspots all elevating their menus, atmosphere, and overall experience. From iconic brasseries with timeless interiors to contemporary spaces known for their seasonal dishes and stylish crowds, there’s a destination to suit every kind of celebration.

Whether you’re planning a dinner that naturally rolls into late-night drinks, a more refined evening centred around great food, or simply want a setting where the energy feels right for the season, these are the restaurants that define festive dining in London right now.

THE MAINE, MAYFAIR

The Maine has become a go-to for winter evenings thanks to its mix of brasserie classics, strong cocktails, and a room that always feels lively. The space blends old-world glamour with a subtle New England edge, making it ideal for group dinners or pre-party plans. Expect seafood towers, signature steaks, and a playlist that keeps the atmosphere upbeat without overshadowing the dining experience. It’s polished, social, and effortlessly festive – exactly the kind of place people book ahead for December.

CLOS MAGGIORE, COVENT GARDEN

Clos Maggiore is known for its intimate conservatory filled with warm lighting and a canopy of flowers – a setting that naturally suits the festive period. The French-inspired menu leans rich and seasonal, with game, truffle, and classic sauces all featured. It’s a restaurant built for slower, more considered dining, making it ideal for special December occasions. Despite its romantic reputation, it works equally well for small groups wanting an atmospheric winter dinner in one of the city’s most distinctive dining rooms.

BOB BOB RICHARD, SOHO

Bob Bob Ricard pairs art-deco styling with an indulgent menu and its famous Press for Champagne button, making it a natural fit for festive dining. Velvet booths, mirrored panelling, and low lighting create a glamorous setting without feeling gimmicky. The menu leans comforting but elevated – think beef wellington, lobster macaroni, and caviar-topped classics. It’s a place where dinner naturally turns into a longer evening, and the atmosphere stays upbeat throughout. Perfect for celebratory nights with a sense of occasion.

DAPHNE’S, CHELSEA

Daphne’s is known for its tasteful seasonal décor and consistently elegant atmosphere. The Italian menu features refined versions of winter favourites – truffle dishes, seafood pastas, and classics executed with ease. It’s the kind of neighbourhood restaurant where guests dress well and linger over longer meals, making it perfect for festive gatherings that feel elevated but not overly formal. The room has a natural warmth, and the service is polished without being stiff, striking the right tone for December dining in Chelsea.

THE WOLSELEY, CITY

The Wolseley City brings classic European brasserie elegance to a sleek modern setting, making it a strong choice for festive dining. High ceilings, crisp white tablecloths, and attentive service create an atmosphere that feels both grand and accessible. The menu covers refined staples – seafood, schnitzel, pastries, and seasonal specials – all well executed. It works for everything from celebratory breakfasts to evening dinners, and the experience remains consistently polished. For those wanting timeless London dining with a winter-friendly feel, it’s a standout.

BRASSIERIE OF LIGHT, SELFRIDGES

Brasserie of Light pairs contemporary design with a bold, polished dining room that naturally suits the festive season. The menu leans modern European with vibrant, visually-led dishes that work well for groups, and the atmosphere stays lively without tipping into chaos. It’s also the perfect spot for a post-Selfridges shopping spree, offering a bright, upbeat setting that delivers just the right amount of glamour without the formality. Ideal for December plans that mix celebration with a little people-watching.

SKETCH, MAYFAIR

Sketch is one of London’s most visually led dining destinations, and it becomes even more impressive in December. Each year, the space unveils a series of Christmas-themed floral art installations, with every room reimagined by a different designer – creating an experience that feels immersive without straying into theatrics. The modern European menu is refined yet playful, and the crowd consistently stylish. It’s a standout choice for festive dinners where the setting matters as much as the food, offering atmosphere, creativity, and a sense of occasion.

DOLLOWAY TERRACE, BLOOMSBURY

Dalloway Terrace is one of London’s most recognisable winter dining settings, thanks to its seasonal transformations and statement floral installations. Each year, the terrace is redesigned with a new festive theme, creating an immersive backdrop that feels polished rather than overly styled. The menu focuses on modern British dishes with a comforting, seasonal edge, and the heated terrace makes it a reliable choice throughout December. It’s an ideal spot for festive lunches, early dinners, or relaxed celebrations in a setting that feels instantly atmospheric.