Christmas Feasts for London’s Vegetarians

‘Tis the season to be jolly as London gets ready for the best time of year. The city is dazzling with Christmas lights, shoppers and events, setting that festive tone.

If you haven’t already started, it’s the perfect time to plan those Christmas get togethers. Of course, there will be an abundance of meat feasts around but don’t be disheartened… the rise of vegetarianism means there are plenty of options out there. Here’s a shortlist of some favourites from a range of cuisines to celebrate the diversity of Christmas in London.

Classic British Fare

The Gate

One of my only favourite fully vegetarian restaurants, The Gate provides that balance between chic ambience and good food, complete with impressive presentation for amazing value. For Xmas, they’re going all out with a fantastic festive menu coupled with Christmas crackers and Petit Fours. Their Rotolo and Chocolate Snowball must be tried.

Price per person: £35
Alcohol (avg): £5
Contact: 22-24 Seymour Place, London, W1H 7NL; +44 (0)20 7724 6656

Oldroyd

Parched somewhere between Camden and Islington, Oldroyd is a rather recent venture started up by the ex-Chef of the Polpo Group. The aim is to bring an evolving European menu based on seasonal British produce to London. The Festive Menu is a clear reflection of the same with both, vegetarian and vegan options – the Red Wine Poached Pear & Pecan Praline sounds divine.

Price per person: £32
Alcohol pairing: £51
Contact: 344 Upper Street, London N1 0PD; + 44 (0)20 8617 9010

Duck & Waffle

Want to celebrate Christmas with a view? Duck and Waffle is one of the best places to savour the sights and flavours of London from the 40th floor. They are running a special vegetarian feast followed by coffee and mince pies only on Christmas Day between 11:30am-4:00pm. It’s pricy but if you can get a booking, it will be well worth the effort. The Jerusalem Artichoke Ravioli is unmissable.

Price per person: £85
Alcohol (avg): £10
Contact: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY; +44 (0)20 3640 7310

Darwin Brasserie @ Sky Garden

Darwin Brasserie lies within Sky Garden on the 37th floor, another place with beautiful views of London. While they don’t have a specific vegetarian menu, their Festive Menu offers some delicious vegetarian options. The Fresh Herb Gnocchi and Chocolate & Raspberry Cremeux are an absolute treat.

Price per person: £55
Alcohol (avg): £11
Contact: Sky Garden, 1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF; + 44 (0)333 772 0020

A different touch…

Peruvian – Casita Andina

Casita Andina brings a Peruvian twist to Christmas – expect some authentic delights in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The concept is to share the Festive Menus, infused with flavours from the regions of Cusco, Arequipa and Huancayo. The Puka Picante and Condor’s Nest are must have specials for the season.

Price per person: £38 / 50
Alcohol (avg): £6
Contact: 31 Great Windmill Street, Soho, London, W1D 7LP; + 44 (0)20 3327 9464

Italian – Piccolino

Piccolino is a neat little Italian find off Regents Street. The ambience is relaxed yet suave and the food is great. They’re hosting a Dazzle & Dine menu until 24 December with plenty of fantastic vegetarian options. The Ravioli Zucca and Tortino Al Cioccolato are particular favourites.

Price per person: £34.50
Alcohol (avg): £7
Contact: 21 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London, W1B 4BG; + 44 (0)20 7287 4029

Italian – Zizzi

A chain Italian restaurant? Really? Well, yes. The vibe is chilled, the menu is exhaustive, the food hearty and the price well affordable. Plus, they do great festive Bellini’s (especially the Raspberry & Mint) during the Xmas season. It’s a definite must-do for that no fuss catch up. You can’t go wrong with their Strozzapreti Pesto Rosso (ask for this without the chicken) followed by their Clementine Sticky Toffee Pudding. They also have a fully vegan menu.

Price per person: £19.95 / £25.95
Alcohol (avg): £6
Contact: Zizzi.com

Chinese – Yauatcha

Christmas the Chinese way? Hell yes. Not only do Yauatcha have a separate Festive Vegetarian Menu but they also have that delectable choice of desserts from their Patisserie. The vibe is classy and the food authentic with a touch of festive – come with an appetite, though, as there are 13 items to devour between you. The Vegetarian Dim Sum Platter definitely offers some of the best in London and they’ve got a special Red Wine Poached Pear to finish.

Price per person: £60
Alcohol (avg): £11
Contact: Yauatcha.com

Indian – Lokhandwala

Talking of the melting pot that London is, we can’t possibly miss out on the British infusion of Indian culture (and vice versa). Lokhandwala attempts to truly mix the Indian and British flavours up and they’re providing a special 5-course Christmas Menu that must be booked in advance for a minimum of 4. The Welcome Wine Shot, Amuse Bouche and Rose Cake stuffed with Chocolate Mousse are heavenly.

Price per person: £65
Alcohol (avg): £10
Contact: 93, Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 4PY; +44 (0)20 7637 7599