Restaurant Christmas Dinner Options in Calgary
Calgary boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and many restaurants are gearing up to offer special Christmas menus. It’s essential to book your reservations early, as popular spots fill up quickly, sometimes months in advance. Remember that special days like this often require deposits to secure your spot, and checking the cancellation policy is advisable. Let’s explore some of the most promising options for a remarkable Christmas dinner in Calgary.
Fine Dining Restaurants
For those seeking a truly elegant and unforgettable Christmas dining experience, Calgary’s fine dining establishments are hard to beat. These restaurants typically offer meticulously crafted menus with premium ingredients, ensuring a memorable Christmas dinner.
One such establishment is Teatro, renowned for its refined Italian cuisine. Their Christmas menus usually include several courses, often showcasing seasonal specialties and perfectly paired wines. Dining at Teatro is an experience; the ambiance is sophisticated, the service is impeccable, and the food is consistently outstanding. It’s a great choice if you are looking to treat your family or loved ones to a Christmas dinner to remember.
Another excellent choice is the River Cafe, nestled on Prince’s Island Park. With its stunning views of the Bow River and its focus on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, the River Cafe offers a truly unique experience. Their Christmas menu often features a tasting menu, allowing diners to sample a range of their expertly prepared dishes, often highlighting the best of what Alberta has to offer. Booking well in advance is crucial to securing a table at this popular location.
Rouge is another standout fine dining option, housed in a beautifully restored historic house. Rouge’s menus emphasize seasonal ingredients and refined techniques, creating a charming and elevated Christmas dining experience. With its intimate setting and exquisite dishes, Rouge promises a cozy and luxurious Christmas dinner.
These are just a few examples; many other fine dining restaurants in Calgary will be offering Christmas menus. Check websites and call to inquire about their specific plans for the holiday.
Casual Dining Restaurants
If you prefer a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere for your Christmas dinner, Calgary’s casual dining scene offers plenty of excellent options. These restaurants typically offer a more accessible price point, making them a great choice for a larger group.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a perennially popular choice, known for its perfectly grilled steaks, friendly service, and comfortable ambiance. Many Keg locations often offer a special Christmas menu, or you can order from their regular menu. The Keg is generally family-friendly and provides a great option for a classic Christmas dinner experience.
Cactus Club Cafe is another reliable choice, offering a diverse menu with something for everyone. Their Christmas menus will likely include seasonal specials and well-loved favorites, ensuring a satisfying meal for all. The lively atmosphere and extensive drink menu are often well-received.
For those craving a wider selection of beer alongside their meal, Craft Beer Market provides a great selection. The food menu also offers a wide array of options, ensuring there is something to please everyone in your party.
These are just a few of the many casual dining establishments that welcome Christmas dinner guests. Remember to call and confirm their Christmas Day hours and menus.
Hotels with Christmas Dinner
Some of Calgary’s top hotels provide extraordinary Christmas dinner offerings, providing luxury and convenience all in one location.
The Fairmont Palliser is a historic and iconic hotel that often hosts grand Christmas Day events. This could include elaborate buffets and elegant dining rooms. The Fairmont Palliser typically features an exquisite Christmas Day buffet with a wide variety of options, from traditional roasted turkey to seafood and decadent desserts. The atmosphere is festive, and the service is first-class.
The Hyatt Regency Calgary sometimes presents both a buffet style and sit down Christmas dinners. A great option for a grand celebration.
Hotel Arts sometimes offers innovative and creative Christmas dinner menus. The Hotel often has a relaxed atmosphere and is the perfect setting to gather with friends and family.
Be sure to check hotel websites for details, or call for reservation information.
Christmas Dinner Catering and Takeout Options in Calgary
Sometimes, the most convenient way to celebrate Christmas is to let someone else handle the cooking, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones. Calgary offers various catering and takeout options, providing a hassle-free Christmas dinner.
Catering Companies
Several catering companies in Calgary specialize in providing complete Christmas dinner packages.
Simply Elegant Catering typically offers a diverse range of menus, including traditional Christmas dishes and international cuisine. Their catering packages often include the main course, side dishes, and even desserts, making them a one-stop shop for your Christmas dinner needs. They generally cater to various dietary restrictions, such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
The Italian Centre Shop is a great choice for high-quality Italian food. The shop generally offers holiday menus with delectable food items.
Restaurants Offering Takeout/Pre-ordered Meals
Many restaurants offer Christmas dinner takeout options, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your home.
Check with restaurants like The Keg, Cactus Club Cafe, and many others to see if they offer takeout meals for Christmas.
The advantages of takeout are clear: convenience, the ability to customize your meal, and a more relaxed atmosphere. These restaurants often have specific order deadlines.
At-Home Christmas Dinner Ideas
For those who love to cook, or perhaps want a more intimate gathering, preparing your own Christmas dinner at home can be a rewarding experience.
Grocery Stores with Christmas Dinner Solutions
Most major grocery stores in Calgary provide the ingredients and even pre-prepared items to help you create your Christmas dinner. Stores like Safeway, Sobeys, and Superstore often offer complete Christmas dinner packages, including a turkey or ham, side dishes, and desserts. These stores can be a great option for those who want to save time but still enjoy a homemade meal.
Tips and Tricks for Hosting Christmas Dinner
Planning your menu ahead of time is key to a successful Christmas dinner. Decide on your main course (turkey, ham, prime rib), side dishes (stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables), and desserts. Make a detailed grocery list and start shopping early to avoid last-minute stress.
Set the mood by decorating your home with festive decorations, lighting candles, and playing Christmas music. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences your guests may have when planning your menu. Offering vegetarian or vegan options is always a thoughtful touch.
Remember to allow plenty of time for cooking and serving. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your guests. Christmas is all about sharing and celebrating together.
Special Considerations
When planning your Christmas dinner, consider the following aspects:
Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
Always inquire about your guests’ dietary needs. Many restaurants and caterers now offer menus that cater to specific diets. When making your own dinner, include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Family-Friendly Options
If you have children attending your Christmas dinner, select restaurants that cater to families. Some restaurants offer children’s menus or have activities to keep the kids entertained.
Last-Minute Options
If you’re a last-minute planner, don’t despair! There are still ways to enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner. Consider takeout, catering options, or grocery store pre-prepared meals. Even if you only manage a simple meal, the most important thing is to spend time with loved ones.
Conclusion
From elegant fine dining experiences to cozy family-style meals, Calgary has a plethora of options to cater to every taste and preference for your Christmas dinner. Remember to plan ahead, make reservations early, and consider all the options available. Be it restaurant, caterer, or preparing your own meal, your Christmas dinner in Calgary can be truly memorable.
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyous celebration filled with delicious food and the company of your loved ones! Remember to explore these Calgary dining options and make your choice today to secure your spot for a wonderful Christmas dinner!
