Christmas 2021:11 Lunches, brunches and more for the whole family

Family and friends will gather this weekend to celebrate the merriest day of the year. The excitement is almost palpable – unfortunately, so is the fear – not looking forward to cooking for hours and hours? Wondering how to keep the kiddos entertained on the day? Most of all, fearing clean-up? We’ve got you covered with festive spreads that mean a trip out with everyone, entertainment for the grown-ups and the young ones and all-in-all just a wonderful day. Here’s a look at some Christmas meals and outings that’ll suit the whole family.

Jones the Grocer, Emirates Golf Club: Looking for a traditionally grand meal plan where you can wear your fat pants and enjoy the spread while the kids are entertained nearby? Here you go. There’s everything from a traditional Christmas themed four-course meal, including hot and cold starters, sharing platters, turkey and beef carvery and dessert boards. And while you indulge your tastebuds, the kiddos can enjoy games and activities – supervised obviously – visit the Santa booth to meet Mr Claus and jump aboard a bouncy castle. This is a meal out you’ll be talking about for some time. You are welcome

Swissotel Al Ghurair: Goodies such as beef wellington, infused cherry filling red velvet yule log with lotus crumble are on the table – along with a host of dishes from around the world; even the fussiest eater will find something they’ll love. Between returns to the table for seconds or thirds, the kids can take part in activities including cookie or bauble decoration workshops, a Zumba class and, of course, a Santa meet. The lunch is on from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Café Society: Brunch here and you get a set menu full of seasonal delights. Groups booking with a minimum of 10 persons will enjoy 1 complimentary lunch, with a 50 per cent discount for children below 12 years. The brunch is on from 12.30pm to 5pm.

Sauce: Revisit that feeling of gratitude at having family and friends around you when you visit this American Diner in Dubai, where besides delicious food, you can also catch a movie! On Saturday, ‘Home Alone 1’ is playing at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm. Special sauce-heady popcorn and complimentary Christmas cookies are on offer for the audience. There are also themed festive drinks on the cards – think gingerbread latte, roasted marshmallow latte, white Christmas (hot white chocolate) and festive pistachio shake

M One, Millennium Place Barsha Heights: For this lunch, take swimsuits! Not only is there a buffet for adults and another one for kids – with the usual specialties - this offer comes with pool access and a meet with Santa who will hand out gifts. To really get into the mood, hum along with carolers. Children are also really going to enjoy the ginger cookie decorating party on site. DETAILS: 12.30pm-4pm

Roxy Cinemas (City Walk and The Beach): When you check into a movie at these branches you can not only enjoy the festive décor of the place but also upgraded nosh. Ditch the popcorn in favour of juicy Roxy Xmas turkey burgers and decadent red velvet cakes. There are meal packages and a hot chocolate and goodie box on offer too.

Timo at Al Jaddaf Rotana: Try an Italian twist on your Christmas spread – there are live cooking stations so you can customize your favourites. There are of course seasonal specialties about as well. As for the kids, there are a bunch of activities on hand to keep them entertained as you catch up on family gossip. DETAILS: The brunch is on from 1pm to 4pm.

Emirates Palace: Stay over at this Abu Dhabi hotel and the kids can enjoy a lovely movie night on Christmas Eve. The next day, head over to Las Brisas for a festive buffet and activities for the whole family.

Pascal Tepper at Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road: This brunch comes with a live turkey carving station and array of exquisite desserts. Little ones will be in for a treat with a face painting station and Santa Claus himself scheduled to visit with gifts. There’s a discount on for kids aged 6-11.

Lo+Cale: Are you a fan of the ‘Home Alone’ franchise? If the answer is yes, head over to this movie-themed feast full of spectacular treats for the whole family, lovely views of the Marina and activities that’ll keep the young-ins happy all day.

Warehouse: Sing, dance and make merry in this winter wonderland, which will not only serve themed treats but also host a live band, Chilli Jam, playing Christmas classics to complete the experience.