Here Comes Santa Claus, Here Comes Christmas Eve
Photo Credit: Monika Grabkowska
Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus ... no really … here comes Christmas Eve people. So before you get all snuggled in your bed with visions of sugar plums dancing in your head, your plans to eat delicously have been made. Plenty of area chefs, restaurants, bars and caterers are ready to set your Christmas Eve table or invite you to come in and dine at theirs. And you know the drill as we receive more info, you will see it highlighted here:
**REMINDER - Please call ahead to confirm status of event or offer**
Make Your Christmas Eve Reservations:
*NEW* Anju: On Christmas Eve from 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Anju will be offering a hybrid dinner menu. No brunch options will be available; 202.845.8935. 1805 18th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Ada's on the River: Ada's on the River will offer a three-course prix fixe menu in addition to the a la carte menu on Christmas Eve. Highlights include Wood Fired Prime Rib and a Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake. The menu is priced at $79 per adult and $29 for children. Ada's on the River will be open from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.; 703.638.1400. 3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA. To make a reservation, click here.
Ambar: On Christmas Eve, Ambar Capitol Hill will be offering the fixed price brunch menus of unlimited small plates from its Balkan Without Limits Brunch Experience. Brunch at Ambar Capitol Hill will be served from 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and is priced at $39.99 per person. The brunch menu will feature Christmas-inspired specials, prepared with a Balkan twist. Some menu highlights include Balkan Veggie Stew, Smoked Salmon Flatbread, Shrimp Buzura, and more. Later in night, all Ambar locations (Capitol Hill, Clarendon, and Shaw) will offer a special dinner highlighting the best dishes throughout the Balkan Penninsula with a modern twist. Menu highlights from the dinner include Lobster Linguini, Beef carpaccio, Lamb Pâté, and more. Guests can pair their food with a variety of cocktails ranging in price from $.99- $1.50; Multiple Locations. For more information, click here.
BARCA Pier & Wine Bar: Situated on the Potomac, BARCA Pier is inviting guests to enjoy festive specials and the signature a la carte menu on Christmas Eve. Featured specials include Lamb Chops and Pan con Persimmons y Jamón. BARCA Pier & Wine Bar will be open on Christmas Eve from 12:30 - 11:00 p.m.; 703.638.1100. 2 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA. For more information, click here.
Blackwall Barn & Lodge: Blackwall Barn & Lodge will be offering a Christmas Eve Brunch from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m at both the Columbia and Gambrills location. The brunch is priced at $55 per adult ($70 per adult with unlimited mimosas and house champagne) and $22 per child 12 and under. The Columbia location will also offer a Christmas Eve 4-course dinner from 3:00 - 10:00 p.m. The dinner is priced at $75 per person; Multiple Locations. To make a reservation for the brunch, click here. To make a reservation for the dinner, click here.
Blackwall Hitch: On Christmas Eve, Blackwall Hitch will be offering a 4-course dinner from 3:00 - 10:00 p.m. Menu highlights include Butternut and Spiced Apple Soup, Lamb Meatballs, Tempura Fried Shrimp, and much more. The dinner is priced at $70 per person; 703.739.6090. 5 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA. To make a reservation, click here.
Blue Duck Tavern: Blue Duck Tavern will be offering its seasonal a la carte dinner menu curated by Executive Chef Andrew Cleverdon. Guests will find festive holiday specials to tempt the palate, served from 5:30 - 10:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve; 202.419.6755. 1201 24th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
The Bombay Club: The Bombay Club will offer a seasonal a la carte menu on Christmas Eve. Guests can savor holiday specials prepared by Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi such as Halibut Gassi, Nihari Ghost, Steamed Christmas Pudding, and more. The Bombay Club will be open from 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.; 202.659.3727. 815 Connecticut Avenue NW. For more information, click here.
Brasserie Beck: Brasserie Beck's Chef Brian McBride is offering a three-course prix fixe menu to celebrate Christmas Eve. Some menu highlights include Cote De Beouf, Chestnut and Foie Gras Soup, Bouillabaisse with Rouille, and more. The menu is priced at $75 and is available from Thursday, December 22nd - Sunday, December 24th from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.; 202.408.1717. 1101 K Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Brasserie Liberté: Brasserie Liberté is offering a 3-course menu on Christmas Eve for $74.95 per person. Guests can indulge in a choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert. Some menu highlights include Chestnut Soup and Seared Filet Mignon; 3521 Prospect Street NW. 202.878.8404. To make a reservation, click here.
Buena Vida Gastrolounge: On Christmas Eve, Buena Vida Gastrolounge will be offering the fixed price brunch menu of small plates from its Buena Vida Brunch Experience. The brunch will be served from 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and is priced at $39.99 per person. Some menu highlights include Steak & Cheese Torta, Salmon Toast, Pork Belly Tacos, and more. Guests can pair their food with a variety of cocktails for $.99 - $1.50 each; 703.888.1528. 2900 Wilsoun Boulevard, Arlington, VA. To make a reservation, click here.
Cure Bar & Bistro: Let Cure Bar & Bistro handle your holiday dining experience this Christmas Eve with a specially curated three-course menu available a la carte or prix-fixe. Some menu highlights include Maine Scallops, Rohan Duck, Buche De Noël, and more. Optional wine pairings are also available; 202.637.4906. 1000 H Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Gravitas: This Christmas Eve, Gravitas is offering two festive options for guests to choose from. Guests can either join for Christmas Eve Brunch from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and enjoy a 3-course menu from Chef Matt Baker priced at $90, or opt for Christmas Eve Dinner from 4:00 - 10:00 p.m. and enjoy a 4-course menu priced at $145 or a 6-course menu priced at $165. Optional wine pairings are also available for an additional $75 or $125 depending on the number of courses; 202.763.7942. 1401 Okie Street NE. To make a reservation, click here.
The Greenhouse: Join The Greenhouse this Christmas Eve for a special holiday dinner. Menu highlights include Chesapeake Bay Blackberry Oyster, Chilean Seabass, White Miso Alaskan Black Cod, and more. A variety of dessert options are also available. The dinner is priced at $175 per adult and $70 per child 12 and under; 202.448.2300. 1200 16th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
The Hay-Adams: For Christmas Eve, The Hay-Adams is offering a fully curated three-course menu with amuse-bouche offerings like Endive & Treviso with Jumbo Lump Crab, Heirloom Carrot Salad with Crispy Kale, Creekstone Farms Striploin, and more. Reservations are required and much be made up to 48 hours prior. The dinner is priced at $125 per adult and $60 per child 4 - 12 years of age; 202.638.6600. 800 16th Street NW. For more information, click here.
ilili: Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner at ilili DC. Guests will enjoy a selection of hot and cold mezza followed by family style entrees including Roasted Acorn Squash and Carob Glazed Lamb Ribs. For dessert, enjoy a selection of favorites including Dark Cherry Bûche de Noël and Arak Raisin Pudding. Reservations are available from 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. The dinner is priced at $115 per adults and $50 per child under 12; 202.918.7766. 100 District Square SW. For more information, click here.
Immigrant Food: Immigrant Food at Planet Word and The White House is back with their beloved holiday brunch for the third year in a row. The gastro-advocacy restaurant group will be open on Christmas Eve for a special brunch. Culinary Director Chef Ben Murray will feature delicious and festive dishes for the brunch, including a new “Hong Kong Style French Toast”; 202.888.0760. 925 13th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Kinship: Join Kinship on Christmas Eve and enjoy their five-course special holiday dinner menu. Highlights include Truffle Waldorf Salad, Spiced Maine Lobster Tail, Grilled Sirloin Tips, and more. A Gingerbread Mousse Cake will be available for dessert. The menu is priced at $150 per person. Seatings are from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.; 202.737.7700. 1015 7th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Little Blackbird: Little Blackbird will offer a variety of seasonal specials, which will be available in addition to the a la carte menu on Christmas Eve. The a la carte specials prepared, by Executive Chef Ryan Moore include Hearth Roasted Chestnuts ($12) and Chocolate Candy Cane Salt Crusted Duck Breast ($30). Little Blackbeard will be open from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.; 202.244.6550. 3309 Connecticut Avenue NW. For more information, click here.
The Lodge: From 3:00 - 10:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, The Lodge will be serving a 4-course dinner. Some menu highlights include Lobster Bisque, Filet Mignon Oscar, Chilean Seabass, and much more. The menu is priced at $75 per person; 410.266.7474. 177 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD. To make a reservation, click here.
The Majestic: On Christmas Eve, The Majestic offer special additions to their enticing a la carte menu, available from 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.; 703.837.9117. 911 King Street, Alexandria, VA. For more information, click here.
Mia's Italian Kitchen: Gather your loved ones and savor the flavor of the season at Mia's Italian Kitchen with a special three-course prix-fixe menu priced at $49 per person. The a la carte menu will also be available, offering a range of Italian classics and specialties; 703.997.5300. 100 King Street, Alexandria, VA. To make a reservation, click here.
Mon Ami Gabi: Start your festivities with Weekend Brunch or enjoy an array of French favorites for dinner including Mon Ami Gabi's Beef Bourguignon, Grand Plateau, Roast Chicken a la Grand-Mère, and more. Don't forget your Santa hat. Guests wearing theirs will receive a complimentary profiterole. Mon Ami Gabi Reston and Bethesda are open on Sunday, December 24th from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.; Multiple Locations. For more information, click here.
Opal: On Christmas Eve, Chef Colin McClimans will offer a family style tasting menu at Opal. Menu highlights include Crispy Artichoke alla Romana, Maine Lobster Ravioli, Roasted Rack of Lamb, and more. The menu is priced at $90 per person; 202.570.0289. 5534 Connecticut Avenue NW. To make a reservation, click here.
*NEW* Opaline Bar & Brasserie: Christmas Eve Afternoon tea will be served at Opaline Bar & Brasserie from 1:30 - 4:00 p.m. The Afternoon Tea is priced at $95 per adult and $55 per child aged 4 - 12 years old. The tea will include a bottle of Mini Chandon Brut Sparkling per adult; 202.730.8800. 806 15th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Philotimo: Get ready for a Mediterranean celebration this Christmas Eve. Join Philotimo on Sunday, December 24th for a family-style three-course Mediterranean feast, complete with an array of delicious mezze and featuring their signature suckling pig roasted on their open hearth; 202.390.1300. 1100 15th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
*NEW* The Royal: Step into an enchanting Christmas Eve at The Royal, where they will be offering a festive brunch from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Some highlights from the brunch buffet include Bacon and Sausage, French Toast and Pancakes, an Omelette Station, and much more. The buffet is priced at $45 per person; 703.548.1616. 730 N Asaph Street, Alexandria, VA. For more information, click here.
*NEW* Stable DC: On Christmas Eve, Stable DC is serving a 3-course prix fixe menu with fondue. The menu is priced at $49 per person and features your selection of an appetizer, fondue, and a dessert; 202.733.4604. 1324 H Street NE. To make a reservation, click here.
Summer House North Bethesda: Summer House will be serving your favorites alongside a Christmas Prix Fixe menu. The three-course menu is priced at $97.95 and features Lobster Bisque, Brandt Beef Prime Rib au Jus, and sweet treats like the Butterscotch Crème Brûlée and Chocolate Cake. On your way home, don't forget to pick up some of Santa's favorite cookies from the Summer House market to leave by the tree. Summer House North Bethesda is open on Sunday, December 24th from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.; 301.881.2381. 11825 Grand Park Avenue, North Bethesda, MD. To make a reservation, click here.
Tiger Fork: For those who love Chinese food on Christmas, Blagden Alley’s Cantonese restaurant Tiger Fork will be open on Christmas Eve for the 7th year in a row. The Hong Kong-inspired restaurant will offer its regular a la carte menu. Tiger Fork is open from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve; 202.733.1152. 922 N Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.
Vola's Dockside Grill: Spend Christmas Eve at Vola's Dockside Grill as they invite guests to enjoy a special three-course prix fixe menu priced at $49 per person, or opt for a more personalized experience with their a la carte offerings. Highlights include Beef Wellington and Chilean Seabass. On Christmas Eve, Vola's will be open from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m; 703.935.8890. 101 North union Street, Alexandria, VA. To make a reservation, click here..
Feasting at Home:
All Set Restaurant & Bar, Fryer's Roadside, & Money Muscle BBQ: Available for preorder until Monday, December 18th, All Set Restaurant & Bar, Money Muscle BBQ, and Fryer’s Roadside are offering guests a special holiday dinner for four to-go, featuring their choice of main dish with several hearty sides included in each meal. Guests can choose between a Honey Baked Ham ($195), Grilled Salmon with Dill Cream Sauce ($195), or Smoked Ribeye with Horseradish Cream ($245) for their main and enjoy Skillet Cornbread, Mac & Cheese, Parkerhouse Rolls, Garlic String Beans, Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, and Chocolate Chip Cookies on the side. All Orders are available for pick-up on Sunday, December 24th at All Set or Fryer’s Roadside; To place an order, click here.
*NEW* Anju: Anju will be offering "Coquito Meets Korea" this Christmas Eve, available for takeout only. Coquito is a creamy, tropical, Puerto Rican holiday drink with tons of coconut flavor. It's made with both evaporated and condensed milk, cream of coconut, spices, rum (in this case, Don Q). Black Sesame, Banana Milk, Boricha & Vanilla, or Choco Pie. 800ml bottles are priced at $22 with four flavor options available; 202.845.8935. 1805 18th Street NW. To place an order, click here.
*NEW* Ivy City Smokehouse: Order a Holiday Platter from Ivy City Smokehouse for your Christmas celebrations. There are two sizes: 3-ounce fish with sides ($50) or 6-ounce fish with sides ($100). Order 48 hours in advance and schedule your pick-up date and time; 202.529.3300. 1356 Okie Street NE. To place an order, click here.
*NEW* 2Fifty BBQ: 2Fifty BBQ invites you to celebrate the holiday with your loved ones while savoring their BBQ feasts, meticulously prepared by their acclaimed barbecue experts. Your orders will be served piping hot and ready to enjoy on Sunday, December 24th, with pick-up times from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Some options include the Lamb & Duck, Banquet, Meat Feast, and more; To place an order, click here.
Cranes: Throughout December, Chef Pepe Moncayo will be offering a special holiday menu featuring dishes like Crispy Roast Suckling Pig or Braised Lamb Shank “Santi Santamaria” with seasonal sides priced at $150 for 2 people, which will include Pastry Chef Anna Glockl’s Basque Cheesecake or their classic Tocino de Cielo; 202.525.4900. 724 9th Street NW. For more information, click here.
Kinship: For Christmas Eve, Kinship is offering their “In The Spirit Of Kinship” To-Go menu. The special menu features four-courses and is priced at $200 for two people. Some menu highlights include Truffle Waldorf Salad, Globe Artichoke and Lentil Soup, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, and more. Pick-up is available at 5:00 or 5:30 p.m.; 202.737.7700. 1015 7th Street NW. To place an order, click here.
Smashing Grapes: From 3:00 - 10:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Smashing Grapes will be offering a 4-course dinner. Some menu highlights include Chestnut Soup, Cider Pork Belly, Ahi Tuna, and much more. The dinner is priced at $70 per person. An optional wine pairing is also available for an additional $35 per person; 410.451.7544. 2383 Brandermill Boulevard, Gambrills, MD. To make a reservation, click here.
Unconventional Diner: Unconventional Diner is offering a classic holiday meal for pick-up, perfect for Christmas celebrations. The meals can be picked up cold on any chosen day from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. Highlights from the meal includes Crab Bisque, Beef Wellington, Mashed Potatoes, and more. the meal is priced at $75 per person; 202.847.0122. 1207 9th Street NW. To place an order, click here.
