Christmas Lunch On Gold Coast
Ideas for Christmas Lunch on Gold Coast
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Whether you are a local or a visitor to the Gold Coast, choosing the venue for your Christmas lunch can be quite overwhelming.
Don't panic! This is a long page, but you will likely find something to help you on it! You will find a selection of options to suit most tastes - with or without Santa - adults only - family friendly and more. Read on...
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Locals or visitors to the Gold Coast? It doesn't matter, choosing the venue for your Christmas lunch can be quite overwhelming.
Where to start looking for...
- An affordable family Christmas lunch venue
- Entertainment for the kids - or a visit from santa?
- Christmas lunches appropriate for the kids - good kids menu?
- Traditional christmas food, Aussie style, Italian, Chinese, Seafood buffet or another twist?
- A fine dining restaurant that adults can enjoy top notch food without kids?
No fear - this may be a long page, but you will likely find something to help you on it!
Whether you live in the Gold Coast or are just visiting over the Christmas and New Year holidays, planning where to have your Xmas lunch is a really important thing.
Do your research and book EARLY to avoid disappointment and stress!
Many of the smaller restaurants and cafes are closed. This leaves a much higher demand for those that are open for Christmas lunch on Gold Coast.
Bookings are taken ahead of time and many offer buffets (traditional, hot and cold seafood or themed), a set menu or limited choices and usually an all inclusive price.
There are many options for Christmas lunches, but they sell out quickly, especially the good ones!
You cannot expect to just turn up and get lunch on Christmas Day. Booking is essential!
Below you will find a selection of links to more information about each of the options. I research this topic myself, and pick out the main ones.
This list is NOT exhaustive, there will be many I haven't listed.
However, you will find these a good cross section and if they aren't what you are looking for, they will certainly give you ideas for other options.
As well as listing the different options, I have made some suggestions for the common questions I get asked about Christmas Lunch on Gold Coast - let me know if you have any other questions. I have not listed every single option, but a selection that best fit the criteria. You should find more information by scrolling down the page.
* Please Note - All prices quoted are approximate and may change. Please check with each venue before booking. Many venues require full payment on booking to secure your place. Check the specific terms and conditions when you book. Disclaimer: I don't get paid to do this research, so if I have made a mistake or two, please forgive me and let me know so I can fix it up for the next person. Happy Christmas lunching!
the family in a restaurant
Christmas Lunch on Gold Coast Options By Category
| Buffet Style Xmas Lunch | Set Menus & Degustation |
|---|---|
| QT Ballroom | Vanitas at Palazzo Versace |
| Bistro On3 at Sofitel | Oyster Bar at Sheraton |
| The Pavilion at Jupiters | Room81 at Sofitel |
| Food Fantasy at Jupiters | Oskars On Burleigh |
| Citrique at Marriott | Cucina Vivo at Jupiters |
| La Medusa Ballroom - Palazzo Versace | Zen at Jupiters (Chinese Twist) |
| Il Barocco - Palazzo Versace | Garden Kitchen & Bar at Jupiters |
| Mirage Grand Ballroom | |
| Terraces Restaurant at Mirage | |
| Santa's Workshop at Sofitel | |
| Vie Bar + Restaurant at Palazzo Versace | |
| Waves Restaurant - Watermark Hotel | |
| Atrium Bar at Jupiters | |
| Family Friendly Christmas * | Adults Only Xmas Lunches # |
| Santa's Workshop at Sofitel * | Room81 at Sofitel |
| Bistro On3 at Sofitel * | Oyster Bar at Sheraton |
| Atrium Bar at Jupiters | Vanitas at Palazzo Versace |
| Citrique at Marriott | |
| QT Ballroom * | |
| Cucina Vivo at Jupiters | |
| The Pavilion at Jupiters * | |
| Food Fantasy at Jupiters | |
| Zen at Jupiters (Chinese Twist) | |
| La Medusa Ballroom - Palazzo Versace * | |
| Il Barocco - Palazzo Versace * | |
| Mirage Grand Ballroom * | |
| Garden Kitchen & Bar at Jupiters | |
| Terraces Restaurant at Mirage * | |
| Waves Restaurant - Watermark Hotel |
* Santa Visit - many of the family friendly christmas lunches on the Gold Coast have a visit from Santa. I have put an asterisk (*) next to all those where they will be having Santa drop in and in most cases provide a small gift for children. The details of ages of children they will give a gift to are different depending upon the venue, so make sure you check up on these details if it is important to you.
# Adults Only - is my classification. Some are TRULY adults only, whilst other are in my opinion obviously designed for adults and are priced accordingly with no children's prices. Check the details and you will find out which are truly Adult only christmas lunch venues.
| Christmas Lunch Surfers Paradise | Christmas Lunch Broadbeach |
|---|---|
| Paradise Resort | Sofitel Options |
| Citrique at Marriott | Jupiters Options |
| Watermark Hotel | |
| QT Ballroom |
| Christmas Lunch Main Beach | Other Locations For Christmas Lunch on Gold Coast |
|---|---|
| Palazzo Versace Options | Benowa Tavern - Benowa |
| Sheraton Mirage Options | Parkwood Tavern - Parkwood |
Gold Coast Local Information For December & January
Booking.com
Christmas Lunch on Gold Coast - More Options
Here are some more options that I don't have as much detail for, but you can check them out for other Gold Coast Christmas lunch options:
Paradise Resort Christmas Lunch is only for inhouse guests, which means the best option is to stay at Paradise Resort for Christmas to enjoy lunch options without having to go anywhere! Buffet lunch and dinner in The Bistro.
Jupiters Gold Coast Broadbeach. Various Christmas Day Lunch options
Sofitel in Broadbeach - Various Christmas Lunch and Dinner Options for Christmas Day including Santa's Workshop, Bistro On3 and Room81
Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast- several options at various venues in the hotel.
QT Hotel Gold Coast - at Surfers Paradise. They also have an informal dinner option.
QT Ballroom Christmas Lunch (2018 Details TBC - here is information from previous years) buffet style lunch with food stations and lots of tasty choices including seafood and slow roasted suckling pig, beverage package, live entertainment and a visit from Santa. Approximate Prices Adult (18+) $225 | Teen (13 - 17 years) $160 | Children ( 4 - 12 years) $120 | 3 Years and Under eat Free.
Watermark Hotel Surfers Paradise has a lunch option.
Marriott Surfers Paradise Resort & Spa - usually has a buffet lunch at Citrique.
Oskars On Burleigh Christmas Day Lunch. Oskars on Burleigh closed in March 2018 and will not be offering Christmas Lunch.
NOSH Restaurant at Mantra on View Surfers Paradise Christmas Lunch. (2018 Details TBC - here is information from previous years) Newly refurbished in 2016 Nosh is an Asian influence restaurant. However, they are offering a Traditional Christmas Day Lunch with Christmas Buffet including seafood. Includes live entertainment and visit from Santa. Also doing Christmas Dinner.
Here are a selection of venues that are usually open on Christmas Day for lunch to give a wider selection of options
Benowa Tavern Ashmore Road, Benowa. A family friendly tavern offering Christmas Day Buffet Lunch. Buffet lunch, entertainment and Santa visit. Approx pricing from previous years... Adults $92 children $32.
Gold Coast Local Information For December & January
Booking.com
Jupiters Gold Coast Christmas Lunch Options
Jupiters Gold Coast Hotel and Casino is located in Broadbeach near Pacific Fair Shopping Centre. There are many options for Christmas lunch. There are some family friendly options for dining here. These are mostly booked out by early December, but worth checking if you are interested. If you want to stay at the Jupiters over the Christmas holiday period you will need to book in early. Or you could check out other nearby Broadbeach accommodation options.
The Pavilion Ballroom at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 11am to 3pm
Food Style: Buffet Style, with seafood, hot and cold food selection, salads, roasts and desserts. Plus a Kids Menu!
Beverage Package: Includes selected beverages for adults.
Entertainment: None mentioned this year, however, in previous years there was entertainment and activities for the kids and of course a visit from Santa!
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $199 | Child (5 to 12) $99 | Child (3 to 4) $50 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: I like this option! You are in the ballroom and the atmosphere will be great. Feedback from is always favourable, amazing food, kids love it and the adults enjoy the celebration without the clean up afterwards.
Garden Kitchen & Bar at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Fresh seasonal produce. Casual with share plate entree, choice of 2 mains and light dessert.
Beverage Package: None
Entertainment: None specified.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $110 | Child (5 to 12) $75 | Child (3 to 4) $40 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: This is a new offering at Jupiters. It seems very casual, but I am not sure if the kids will enjoy the menu - rather adult in my opinion.
Atrium Bar at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Buffet Style
Beverage Package: Includes standard beverage package for adults.
Entertainment: None specified
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $149 | Child (5 to 12) $75 | Child (3 to 4) $40 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: Another good option for those staying at Jupiters or close by in Broadbeach.
Food Fantasy at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12noon to 3pm
Food Style: A very wide selection of hot and cold food including seafood buffet, salads, carvery including traditional turkey as well as other options plus cheese and dessert buffet
Beverage Package: Includes selected beverage package in adult price.
Entertainment: None specified on the promotion materials.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $179 | Child (5 to 12) $95 | Child (3 to 4) $50 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: The selection of food is extensive. Previous reviews very positive. This venue is also open for Christmas Dinner at lower prices than the lunchtime and for the same menu!
Cucina VIVO at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Italian Style 5 course - 3 set courses then main to share and share dessert..
Beverage Package: Includes beverage package in adult price.
Entertainment: None specified.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $159 | Child (5 to 12) $75 | Child (3 to 4) $40 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: Relaxed family christmas lunch option, but due to set style it would be worth checking the menu before committing, especially with the kids.
Zen at Jupiters
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: 4 course menu with some choices- Chinese Style (Cantonese, Peking and Szechuan) Christmas
Beverage Package: Includes beverage package in adult pricing.
Entertainment: None specified.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $135 | Child (5 to 12) $75 | Child (3 to 4) $40 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings directly with Jupiters or through Ticketek who have a handling fee for bookings.
Other Comments: Excellent Chinese twist on family christmas lunch option, but due to set style it would be worth checking the menu before committing.
Marriott Surfers Paradise Christmas Lunch Options
The Marriott in Surfers Paradise is located at the northern end of Surfers Paradise and has a rather famous swimming pool. Looks like there is only one option this year, but it looks like a fantastic one! If you want to stay at the Marriott over the Christmas holiday period you will need to book in early and during peak holiday times they usually have a kids club running, depending on numbers.
Citrique at Surfers Paradise Marriott
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12.00pm to 3pm
Food Style: Spectacular seafood and champagne luncheon featuring Lobster, as well as other premium seafoods.
Beverage Package: Includes premium drinks package, featuring French Champagne, premium red and white wines, local artisan beers and ciders, sangria, Christmas Egg nog, juices and soft drinks.
Entertainment: None specified but I would expect a visit from Santa!
Theme of Event: Christmas - but I would suggest decadent Christmas!
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: APPROX PRICES: Adult $319 | Child (13 to 17) $199 | Child (6 to 12) $150 | Child (3 to 5) $50 | Child (0 to 2) Free
Booking details: Bookings and prepayment required.
Other Comments: Citrique has established a fantastic reputation for outstanding food and presentation. I would expect this to be one of the best Christmas lunches around. If you enjoy seafood and especially lobster, this is going to impress.
Palazzo Versace Christmas Lunch Options
Palazzo Versace, the only 6 Star hotel on the Gold Coast is located in Main Beach right next to Marina Mirage. It is an iconic hotel that is worth visiting for the sheer art of it. Lavishly decorated and appointed, events here are very chic and stylish. Expect Christmas lunch at Versace to be decadent, delicious and truly memorable. There are 4 venues for Christmas lunch here Il Barocco Restaurant, La Medusa Ballroom, Vie Bar + Restaurant and Vanitas.
Vanitas Restaurant Christmas Lunch
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Food Style: 5 course set Degustaion menu.
Beverage Package: Lunch paired with premium wines.
Entertainment: None mentioned - I guess the food will be the entertainment!
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Adult Oriented
Approx. Prices*: Adult $295 per person Child 5 to 12 years $99
Booking details: Check the Palazzo Versace website
Other Comments: This year they have a child's price for lunch here. Previously this was Adults Only. Personally, I think this will be an opulent experience and is especially for gourmands. I don't think it is so appropriate for children.
La Medusa Ballroom Christmas Buffet Lunch
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 4pm
Food Style: Christmas Buffet including seafood.
Beverage Package: Included.
Entertainment: Live entertainment, Christmas Clown, face painting, childrens entertainment and visit from Santa with gifts for 12 and Unders.
Theme of Event: None Stated - Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes.
Approx. Prices*: Adult $260 | Child (13 to 17) $175 | Child (4 to 12) $99
Booking details: Check the Palazzo Versace website.
Other Comments: The ballroom at Versace is actually quite intimate as ballrooms go. Share tables of 10 per table. No mention of children under 4. Not sure if they are not welcome or free. You will need to check if this applies to your Christmas party. Although this is the most family friendly appearing option in Versace with all the entertainment.
Il Barocco at Versace Christmas Lunch
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 4pm
Food Style: Christmas Buffet including seafood.
Beverage Package: Included.
Entertainment: Live entertainment, Christmas Clown, face painting, childrens entertainment and visit from Santa with gifts for 12 and Unders.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes - caveat see comments.
Approx. Prices*: Adult $230 | Child (13 to 17) $160 | Child (4 to 12) $99
Booking details: Check the Palazzo Versace website.
Other Comments: Will be an opulent buffet for sure. No mention of children under 4. Not sure if they are not welcome or free. You will need to check if this applies to your Christmas party. This venue also offers a Christmas Eve Dinner and a Christmas Night Dinner.
Vie Bar + Restaurant at Palazzo Versace for Christmas Lunch
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3.30pm
Food Style: 3 course sharing menu with twist on classics.
Beverage Package: Welcome glass of Champagne.
Entertainment: Visit from Santa and Face Painting.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $160 | Child (13 to 17) $110 | Child (4 to 12) $60
Booking details: Check the Palazzo Versace website.
Other Comments: Seems like all the venues in Versace are going "Child Friendly this year.
Gold Coast Local Information For December & January
Booking.com
Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast Christmas Lunch Options
Sheraton Mirage has undergone some renovations and has several options for Christmas lunches. Located opposite Marina Mirage and very close to Palazzo Versace, it is a lovely location to visit for the day or to stay.
Mirage Grand Ballroom
Location: Sheraton Mirage (Main Beach)
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Seafood buffet
Beverage Package: Premium Resort selected wines, beer soft drink and juice.
Entertainment: Lots of entertainment including 3 piece band, roving entertainment and a visit from santa.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes - Children up to 12 receive a gift from Santa
Approx. Prices*: Adult $225 | Teen (13 to 17) $205 | Child (4 to 12) $125
Booking details: Enquiries and bookings to Sheraton.This event sold out quite early last year.
Other Comments: Sounds like a great family friendly option for Christmas day. Elegant Casual dress required. Minimum of 2 people.
Terraces Restaurant At Mirage
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: From 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Deluxe seafood buffet - food only
Beverage Package: No
Entertainment: Roving entertainment.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $240 | Child (4 to 12) $130
Booking details: Enquiries and bookings to Sheraton. Last year event sold out quite early. Be Quick.
Other Comments: Sheraton's famous seafood buffet - can't go too wrong here. Also has a Christmas Eve dinner. Minimum of 2 per booking.
Oyster Bar
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Shared degustation plates. Food only.
Beverage Package: No.
Entertainment: None specified
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Adult oriented.
Approx. Prices*: $175 per person
Booking details: Enquiries and bookings to Sheraton. Sold Out :(
Other Comments: This is probably more of an adult option as the style of food and location and the price!
Sofitel Broadbeach Christmas Lunch Options
The Sofitel Gold Coast is located in the heart of Broadbeach near the Oasis Shopping Centre. It has 3 venues for Christmas lunch, each with a different theme. There are some family friendly options for dining here. If you want to stay at the Sofitel over the Christmas holiday period you will need to book in early.
They also have two options for Christmas Dinner.
Room81 Christmas Lunch
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: From 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: 5 course Degustation lunch menu
Beverage Package: Includes 3 hour drinks package with wines, beers and soft drinks..
Entertainment: Live Entertainment
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Adults Only
Approx. Prices*: $230 per person
Booking details: Check the Sofitel Gold Coast website.
Other Comments: Definitely for Adults Only. You can stay at the Sofitel over Christmas.
Bistro On3 Christmas Day Lunch Seafood & Carvery Buffet
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: From 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Seafood & Carvery Buffet
Beverage Package: Includes 3 hour drinks package wines, Australian beers and soft drinks
Entertainment: Live entertainment and Santa for kids.
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes - children under 11 years receive gift from Santa.
Approx. Prices*: Adult $220 | Child (12 to 17) $155 | Child (6 to 11) $75 | 5 Years & Under $45
Booking details: Check the Sofitel Gold Coast website.
Other Comments: Sumptuous gourmet seafood buffet plus a Christmas Carvery means there is definitely something for everyone. Includes beverage package. Family friendly christmas lunch at the Sofitel Gold Coast, but if you want something even more memorable see below! You can stay at the Sofitel over Christmas.
Santa's Workshop TBC - Christmas Lunch Buffet
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: From 12 noon to 3pm
Food Style: Seafood Buffet & Carvery Buffet
Beverage Package: Included
Entertainment: Live Entertainment and Santa for kids,
Theme of Event: Santa's Workshop
Family Friendly: Yes - children under 11 receive gift from Santa. Share tables of 10.
Approx. Prices*: Adult $235 | Child (12 to 17) $165 | Child (6 to 11) $90 | 5 Years & Under $45
Booking details: Check the Sofitel Gold Coast website
Other Comments: Share tables of 10, so bare this in mind when planning. They really know how to make it special here. Always a great event at Sofitel. You can stay at the Sofitel Gold Coast for a really huge Christmas holiday!
Watermark Gold Coast Christmas Lunch Options
The Watermark has a reputation for great buffets on Christmas day for lunch and dinner.
Waves Restaurant
Location: Watermark Hotel, Surfers Paradise
Date: Tuesday 25 December 2018
Details Below from previous years 2018 Details TBC
Time: From 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Food Style: Christmas Buffet including Seafood & Traditional
Beverage Package: Beverage package with selected wines, beer soft drink and juice.
Entertainment: None Stated
Theme of Event: Christmas
Family Friendly: Yes
Approx. Prices*: Adult $185 | Teen (13 to 17) $129 | Child (4 to 12) $85 | Infant (0 to 3 years) $10
Booking details: Enquiries and bookings to Watermark.
Other Comments: Good family friendly option for Christmas day.
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