Brothaus, Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay, Dubai
Some of the oldest Christmas traditions originated in Germany, and Brothaus brings them to its à la carte menu. The contemporary bistro features all the traditional German favourites, beginning with a complimentary round of mulled grape and eggnog.
Details: 6pm to 1.30pm, à la carte, call 04 369 0000
Frevo, Fairmont The Palm, Dubai
Go straight to Brazil for your Christmas feast this year, with the churrascaria serving up classic Latin American snacks and traditional cuts of meat, as well as marinated turkey. There will also be Christmas-inspired beverages, making this a festive feast to remember.
Details: 7pm to 12am, priced from Dh295 inclusive of soft beverages. Call 04 457 3457
Center Cut, Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Dubai
Why eat ordinary fare when your dinner could be Michelin-endorsed? Top chef Paco Pérez, whose restaurants have a total of five Michelin stars, is hosting a three-month pop-up at the Ritz-Carlton DIFC. His Christmas menu, from December 1 to 26, puts a festive twist on classic Spanish tapas in an authentic sobremesa setting.
Details: 7pm to 11pm, à la carte, call 04 372 2323
McGettigan’s JBR, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah
Break out a bit of Irish cheer this Christmas Eve — without the biting cold, of course! The Jingle Bell Party at McGettigan’s JBR promises a full turkey dinner with four house beverages each, as a DJ spins festive tunes and you eye the sky for Santa’s sleigh. One condition — you’ve got to wear an ugly jumper (but they might let you in without it in the spirit of the season).
Details: 6pm to 11pm, Dh400, contact 04 318 2580.
Thiptara, Palace Downtown
Like a bit of spice? You’ll love Thiptara. Meaning Magic at the Water, this elegant restaurant serves Thai cuisine with an emphasis on Bangkok-style seafood and offers al fresco dining opposite the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. For Christmas Eve, the restaurant has a choice of sharing menus or à la carte dinner.
Details: 6pm to 12am, price à la carte, call 04 888 3444
STAY by Yannick Alléno, One and only The Palm, Dubai
When your restaurant in Paris has three Michelin stars, you’ve conquered the world. Thankfully for us, the finest in modern French food is right here, on the Palm Jumeirah — and from personal experience, we can confirm that you won’t be disappointed by Alléno’s reinvention of signature dishes. Post dinner relax in the lobby and soak up the festive spirit.
Details: 7pm to 11pm, from Dh525 per head, call 04 440 1030
Arboretum, Jumeirah Al Qasr
At a venue that is billed as an ambassador for Arabian cuisine, and a hub of great international food, Arboretum pulls out all the stops on an opulent dining experience on Christmas Eve with a buffet of regional favourites and continental classics. Great for visiting families or to simply celebrate the best of the UAE.
Details: 7pm to 11pm, Dh325 per head. Call 04 432 3232
Ashiana, Sheraton Dubai Creek
For those who love Indian food, Executive Chef Vipin of Ashiana is creating a special three-course set menu that creatively interprets old-school classics to welcome Santa in style on Christmas Eve.
Details: 7pm to 11pm, Dh179 per person including soft beverages, Dh300 including house beverages. Call 04 228 1111
Café KranzleR, Kempinski Ajman
A four-course menu of Mediterranean treats sets the mood for the holidays, with Sabella’s Italian chef Andrea promising a memorable dinner experience in a casual but festive setting. Expect elements of both the traditional and the contemporary on a very dolce vita evening.
Details: 6.30pm to 11.30pm, Dh220 net, call 06 714 5582
