The winter winds bring with them the promise of joy and merriment, marking the arrival of the holiday season. In the heart of Edmonton, where the snow-kissed streets glisten, the city’s hotels are preparing to host spectacular Christmas buffets. These feasts not only showcase culinary excellence but also provide a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we explore the best Christmas buffets in Edmonton, each offering a unique blend of flavours and festive cheer.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald’s Christmas Buffets
Nestled in the heart of Edmonton, the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald stands as a beacon of luxury. The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald’s Christmas buffet is a culinary extravaganza that captures the essence of the season. The Empire Ballroom sets the stage for a Christmas Celebration Brunch and a Christmas Day Dinner Buffet, each promising a symphony of flavours.
Christmas Celebration Brunch:
- Date: Monday, December 25
- Seating Times: 10:00 am | 11:30 am | 12:00 pm
- Price: $129 – Adult | $119 – Senior | $64.50 – Child (6 to 12 years)
Christmas Day Dinner Buffet:
- Date: Monday, December 25
- Seating Times: 4:00 pm | 7:00 pm
- Price: $139 – Adult | $129 – Senior | $69.50 – Child (6 to 12 years)
For those who prefer to savour the festive fare in the comfort of their homes, the hotel offers a Turkey To-Go and Prime Rib To-Go option. The meticulously crafted meals include a roasted whole turkey or prime rib, accompanied by delectable sides, dessert, and a bottle of house wine.
The Harvest Room at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Within the elegant confines of The Harvest Room, located in the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, lies a culinary haven that celebrates local flavours and farm-to-table freshness. The Christmas Eve Dinner offers a three-course Table d’Hôte menu, showcasing a progressive twist on a locally inspired festive menu. On Christmas Day, indulge in a decadent six-course Table d’Hôte menu, accompanied by live entertainment, all within the historic setting of The Harvest Room.
Christmas Eve Dinner:
- Date: Sunday, December 24
- Seating Times: 5:00 pm & 7:30 pm
- Price: $109 per person (exclusive of GST & 15% gratuities)
Christmas Day Dinner:
- Date: Monday, December 25
- Price: $225 per person
Step into the historic setting of The Harvest Room, nestled within the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, and experience Christmas dining with a local twist.
The Westin Edmonton’s Christmas Brunch
In the heart of downtown Edmonton, The Westin Edmonton beckons with a magical Christmas Day brunch buffet that goes beyond the ordinary.
Christmas Day Brunch:
- Seating Times: 10 AM – 2 PM
- Price:
- Adults: $87.86
- Children (6-12 years): $43.93
- Youth (13-16 years): $65.23
- Senior: $78.54
- Children 5 and under eat free
The menu unfolds with a plethora of breakfast options, from assorted morning bakeries and a chef-attended omelet station to a carving station featuring traditional roast turkey and prime beef. The dessert selection, boasting assorted mini delights, promises to be the perfect finale to your brunch experience.
Chateau Lacombe’s Festive Feast
At La Ronde Restaurant in Chateau Lacombe, the Christmas Day Dinner is a showcase of classic dishes and traditional flavours. Experience the warmth of the season at La Ronde Restaurant, where classic Christmas dishes are reimagined with a touch of sophistication. The cozy ambiance of Chateau Lacombe adds an extra layer of warmth to this festive dining experience.
Christmas Day Dinner:
- Date: December 25
- Price: Adult $90 plus (auto gratuity 18% and 5% GST)
- Children’s menu available
The menu at La Ronde offers a choice between a Chateau Caesar Salad or Woodland Mushroom Soup, followed by mains like Alberta Free Range Turkey, Baked Arctic Char, or Slow-Roasted AAA Alberta Prime Rib. Conclude the feast with delightful desserts such as Traditional Christmas Pudding or Candy Cane Cheesecake.
Holiday Meals at Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Center
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve bring a delightful 3-course dinner to Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre from 5 pm-9 pm (9 pm being the last seating).
Christmas Day and New Year’s Day buffet in 44o4 Restaurant:
- Dates: December 25, January 1st, 2024
- Price: $60 plus gratuities and taxes.
- Seatings: 11 am – 1 pm, 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
Christmas and New Year’s Day buffets include chef chef-attended omelette station, chef-carved AAA Alberta roast prime rib, traditional Christmas turkey white and dark meat, pastries, and much more.
For those who prefer a cozy celebration at home, the Turkey To-Go option offers a chance to savour the holiday spirit in the comfort of your own home. Orders must be placed by December 18, with pick-up scheduled for December 24 and 25 between 11 am and 4:30 pm. The Turkey To-Go is priced at $350 plus taxes, and additional ala carte items will incur extra charges.
Buffet Etiquette and Tips
Embarking on a festive buffet adventure requires finesse. Here are some etiquette tips to ensure you make the most of your experience:
- Reservations: Begin making the rounds by securing your spot(s) early. Making reservations ensures you avoid disappointment during the bustling holiday season, guaranteeing you a seat at the culinary spectacle.
- Punctuality: Time is of the essence, especially in a setting where each dish is a masterpiece. Arrive on time to savour every moment and relish the exquisite flavours presented before you.
- Portion Control: Exercise restraint and start with small portions. This allows you to sample a variety without overindulging, leaving room for discovering new favourites throughout the feast.
- Favourites First: Identify your must-try dishes and prioritize them. Whether it’s the succulent roast turkey or the decadent desserts, ensure you don’t miss out on the highlights of the buffet spread.
- Enjoy the Atmosphere: Buffets aren’t just about the food; they’re about the entire experience. Embrace the festive ambiance, soak in the holiday decorations, and revel in the joyous company of friends and family around you.
- Avoid Overloading: While the temptation to load up your plate may be strong, remember that you can always go back for seconds. Keep your initial servings modest to ensure you can explore the entire culinary landscape.
- Mindful Seating: Be considerate of others when choosing your seating arrangement. Ensure everyone has comfortable access to the buffet, and be mindful of creating a pleasant dining environment for all.
- Take Your Time: Buffets are a celebration of flavours, meant to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time between bites, savour the richness of each dish, and appreciate the artistry that goes into the culinary creations.
- Thank the Staff: Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure your buffet experience is seamless. Take a moment to express gratitude to the chefs, servers, and staff who contribute to the success of your festive dining adventure.
Most importantly, relish the festive atmosphere and the joyous company around you. Allow the spirit of the season to infuse your dining experience with warmth and shared joy, creating lasting memories around the holiday buffet table.
Edmonton’s best hotels are ready to unfold a tapestry of flavours and festive delights this Christmas. Whether you choose the opulence of Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, the historic charm of The Harvest Room, the classic elegance of Chateau Lacombe, or the downtown magic of The Westin Edmonton, each venue promises a unique and delightful experience. Secure your reservations, plan your festive dining experiences, and immerse yourself in the joy of creating cherished holiday memories. Book your stay through Edmonton’s Best Hotels to get up to $225 in rewards with our 1, 2, 3 Reward Deal, and get started on a culinary journey that will make this holiday season truly special.
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