Turkey and all the trimmings are a given at this time of year, but why stop there? From creative festive dishes to seasonal treats, Scotland’s restaurants are pulling out all the stops to make this holiday season truly memorable. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a night out with friends or a festive catch up with colleagues, there’s a menu for everyone.
We’ve rounded up the very best spots across the country where you can tuck into hearty feasts and discover exciting twists on classic dishes. Here’s your guide to the ultimate festive dinners in Scotland this year.
Road Hole Restaurant, St Andrews
For a festive treat with a view, the Road Hole Restaurant at The Old Course Hotel offers a seasonal twist on the classic Afternoon Tea. Guests can enjoy stunning winter vistas over the Old Course while sampling an array of Christmassy cakes and pastries, created by the hotel’s skilled pastry chefs every Saturday and Sunday starting 29 November.
From 26 to 28 December, Afternoon Tea moves to the ‘Winter Garden’ in the Conservatory, adorned with fairy lights and seasonal foliage to create a magical setting for this timeless tradition.
View more: https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/festive
Divino Enoteca, Edinburgh
Divino Enoteca in Edinburgh’s Old Town brings together authentic Italian cooking and an extensive wine selection, paired with a softly lit atmosphere, complete with exposed stone walls and rich oak floors, which makes it especially inviting during the festive season. With a festive menu including dishes with touches like Steamed Shetland mussels with Trebbiano wine and roasted turkey paupiette with sage and onion stuffing. The venue is also available for private hire, making it an ideal choice for larger festive gatherings.
Vittoria, Edinburgh
Vittoria brings a lively Italian flair to Edinburgh’s dining scene, serving fresh and classic recipes made with care. The welcoming atmosphere at both its George IV Bridge and Leith Walk locations makes them an easy choice for everything from a casual get-together to a seasonal celebration.
For the festive period, diners can choose a two-course menu available Sunday to Wednesday or enjoy three courses any day of the week. Italian favourites are joined by a few Christmas exclusives, offering comforting flavours and a relaxed setting that’s ideal for a holiday meal.
View more: https://vittoriarestaurant.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VOW-Christmas-Menus-2025-0.2A-FOR-WEB.pdf
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Step away from the city’s festive rush with a trip to the Arboretum, the newest event space at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Crafting up a beautiful celebration of botanical flavours, the Botanics’ are offering afternoon tea that blends traditional styles with the unique flavours the Botanics offer. With delicate savouries and sweet treats inspired by nature, the afternoon tea celebrates Scotland’s winter harvest with seasonal and local produce and ingredients from the organic onsite Kitchen Garden, served from 21 November to the 28 December.
As daylight fades, continue the festivities with a stroll through the Botanics’ after-dark Christmas light trail.
View more: https://www.rbge.org.uk/whats-on/christmas-afternoon-tea/65006/
Hard Rock Cafe, Edinburgh
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh brings festive cheer with classic seasonal dishes and signature favourites, all served in a lively atmosphere surrounded by iconic music memorabilia. Guests can choose from two or three course options, mixing festive specials with Hard Rock twists.
The menu includes dishes such as the Cranberry Smash Burger with provolone, onion, cranberry jam and garlic aioli, while a dessert like caramel apple cheesecake offers a sweet seasonal finish. Festive drinks, including the Autumn Apple Fizz with Makers Mark, lemon juice, apple cider, ginger beer and toasted cinnamon, complete the celebratory experience.
View more: https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/holiday-season.aspx
The Grahamston, Glasgow
Set within Radisson Blu Glasgow and just steps from Central Station, The Grahamston is a stylish spot to soak up the city’s festive spirit. Warm lighting, seasonal décor and a relaxed buzz make it an inviting escape from the winter streets.
Every Saturday, ‘Tinsel and Tea’ offers a buffet style afternoon tea with a sparkling glass of fizz and a tempting spread of homemade treats, from smoked salmon with lemon and chive crème fraîche to honey and mustard glazed chipolatas and mince pies with a hint of lemon drizzle. For something heartier, the festive menu serves a three-course feast with a glass of fizz, perfect for a Christmas get-together.
Cosmo, Aberdeen
COSMO World Buffet Aberdeen is serving up festive cheer this December with a Christmas spread that promises something for everyone. From 1 December, guests can enjoy a spectacular buffet featuring roast turkey, classic Christmas desserts, and COSMO’s signature dishes from across the globe, including Asian, Mediterranean, and world flavours.
Ideal for corporate parties, team celebrations or family gatherings, the all-you-can-eat buffet makes it easy to cater for big groups or fussy eaters. With over 150 dishes, COSMO Aberdeen offers a relaxed, festive setting for a memorable meal.
View more: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/christmas2024
Duisdale House Hotel, Isle of Skye
Scottish charm runs through every detail at Duisdale House Hotel, a former Victorian hunting lodge on the Isle of Skye where modern design meets classic Highland warmth. The hotel’s restaurant showcases the island’s produce, using locally sourced ingredients to create the rich flavours Scotland is known for.
From 22 November to 23 December, guests can enjoy a three-course festive menu for lunch or dinner. Starters include smoked mackerel pâté with beetroot ketchup and melba toast, mains feature roast turkey with all the trimmings and dessert brings a classic Christmas pudding. Each meal includes crackers, tea and coffee, making it an easy way to gather loved ones for a seasonal treat in a distinctive Skye setting.
Skeabost House Hotel, Isle of Skye
Set on the shoreline of Loch Snizort near Portree, Skeabost House Hotel blends historic character with contemporary comfort. The grand Skye house offers striking loch views and genuine Highland hospitality, creating a welcoming setting for Christmas gatherings.
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From 22 November to 23 December, groups of eight or more can enjoy a three-course festive menu for lunch or dinner in the hotel’s stylish restaurant. Seasonal highlights include winter squash soup, slow-roasted turkey with all the trimmings, pan-roasted hake and a choice of indulgent desserts such as Christmas pudding with Raasay whisky crème anglaise or spiced pumpkin pie. It’s an ideal way to celebrate the season with friends or colleagues while savouring the flavours of Skye.
