9 Best Restaurants for Beijing Christmas Dinner 2025

Beijing Christmas Dinner 2025

Christmas in Beijing will surprise you. No time-honored tradition of celebrating Christmas in this ancient city, and yet, what an effort they’ve made! Michelin-star hotel banquets, twinkling lights strung off old world European bistros, and uniquely Beijing experiences like adding a Great Wall visit onto your festive dinner afterwards. Be you an expat yearning for home, or a transient traveller looking for the exotic, if you’re stuck celebrating Christmas in Beijing our Christmas dinner scene caters to both homely comforts and novel experiences unimaginable in the Western world where the holidays everything is shut down.

This guide will tell you about 9 of our favourite restaurant for your Beijing Christmas dinner 2025 one of which is even a 155 yuan budget option. From luxury hotel buffet overlooking Chang’an Avenue to pet friendly cafe, to that Great Wall dinner combo. You ready to discover your Beijing Christmas table? Go!

1. The Peninsula Beijing – Michelin-Starred Christmas Dining & Festive Tea

Dual Luxury Christmas Options

The Peninsula Beijing offers a choice of two fabulous Christmas dinners in Beijing – their yuletide legendry festive afternoon tea is as fabulous as it sounds, or you can feast on a Michelin-star-studded dinner at Jing restaurant. All served with the faultless Peninsula attention to detail.

Festive Afternoon Tea

Inspired by the classic ‘Peninsula Afternoon Tea’, their festive afternoon tea takes on a seasonal theme with signature holiday pastries created by the pastry chefs atop three-tiered silver stands. Honey-roasted ham is paired with fig sandwiches and set against a backdrop of spiced mulled wine cake. Seasonal beverages round off this holiday feast with price starting from 788 yuan per set and served from 2-6pm daily throughout the Christmas season.

Jing Michelin Restaurant

If your celebrations warrant an even grander meal, try Michelin one-star restaurant Jing, where chef de cuisine William is pushing the boundaries of their six-course creative tasting menus, including a “Basque Journey” menu that innovates while respecting the originals. 2,388 yuan may sound steep – but that’s for both the quality of the cooking and the memorable taste that even the most art-directed modules hold.

Essentially, the Peninsula guarantee of a fine afternoon service shines though every element. For Christmas they partner with the Make-a-Wish Foundation to donate part of their proceeds from afternoon tea to children fighting for their lives.

📍 Address: 8 Jinyu Hutong, Dongcheng District (Wangfujing area) | 东城区王府井金鱼胡同8号
💰 Price: Afternoon Tea: 788 CNY+ | Jing Dinner: 2,388 CNY+ (plus 15% service charge)
📞 Reservation: +86 10 8516 2888 (book 3-4 weeks ahead)
🕐 Hours: Afternoon Tea 2-6pm daily; Jing dinner hours vary
👥 Best For: Special celebrations, luxury seekers, proposal dinners

Personal Tip: Ask for Table 12 by the window for perfect views of Wangfujing's Christmas lights.

🎄 And yes — beyond the Christmas dinner in Beijing, 10 Best Restaurants for Shanghai Christmas Dinner 2025 shows Shanghai’s Christmas dinners truly shine.

2. China World Hotel "79" – Sky-High Christmas Dinner with Panoramic Views

Sky-High Dining Experience

Perched on the 79th floor of China World Hotel, this aptly-named restaurant delivers breathtaking panoramic views of Beijing's sprawling cityscape. Your Christmas dinner literally happens above the clouds, which creates an almost surreal dining experience.

Christmas Dream Package

The “Christmas Dream Package” will run on December 24-25 for 2,888 yuan per couple including two glasses of pink champagne to go along with your Christmas feast. You can either choose lunch slots (11:30-14:00) or dinner service (17:30-22:00), although I would suggest dinner so you can actually enjoy those city views!

The attraction here is clearly that height - during the day you can see the forest of skyscrapers across the CBD receding to the distant Western Hills, and at night ten thousand twinkling lights illuminate all of Beijing - stars fallen to the earth. The Christmas decorations throughout the restaurant further enhance the magic, and some nights a magician will stop by your table to entertain you as you eat. This romantic atmosphere makes it a popular destination for proposals and milestones.

📍 Address: 79/F, China World Hotel, 1 Jianguomenwai Ave, Chaoyang District | 建国门外大街1号国贸大酒店79层
💰 Price: 2,888 CNY for 2 persons (includes 2 glasses pink champagne)
🪟 Pro Tip: Request window seats when booking
👔 Dress Code: Smart casual recommended
📞 Reservation: Book 3 weeks before Christmas
👥 Best For: Romantic couples, proposals, milestone celebrations

Personal Tip: Book the 5:30pm slot to catch both sunset and full darkness during your meal.

3. Grand Hyatt Beijing "The Balcony" – Italian Christmas Buffet with Skyline Views

Premium Hotel Christmas Dining Experience

Keep the tradition of celebrating Christmas together, alive. "The Balcony", located on the second floor of Grand Hyatt Beijing, has become a favorite Christmas dinner spot with the Italian buffet and the amazing views of Chang’an Avenue.

Open kitchen design allows guests to enjoy the chefs preparing the food right in front of their eyes, thus infusing the anticipated Din Escape with even more theater. The modern décor gets a festive lift during Christmas with Beijing’s city panorama twinkling beyond those floor to ceiling windows. Christmas props are placed throughout the restaurant for your enjoyment.

Festive Italian Menu Highlights

The Italian menu shines with signature dishes prepared fresh before your eyes. That wood-fired Margherita pizza comes from a 300°C oven, delivering perfect char and chew. Their seafood cart presents cheese risotto with impressive tableside flair. The roasted spring chicken features crispy skin and tender meat, while the sashimi station offers fresh tuna and salmon sliced by skilled chefs.

During the Christmas period, they offer special festive dinner packages with "Thanksgiving Gratitude" interactive activities.

📍 Address: 2/F, Grand Hyatt Beijing, 1 East Chang An Ave, Dongcheng District | 东长安街1号东方君悦大酒店2层
💰 Price: Mid-to-high range (inquire for Christmas package pricing)
🕐 Hours: Confirm Christmas dinner time slots when booking
📞 Reservation: +86 10 8518 1234 (book 2-3 weeks ahead)
👥 Best For: Couples, Italian cuisine enthusiasts, group celebrations

Personal Tip: Arrive early to catch sunset over Chang'an Avenue and request a window table for the best views.

4. Xiu'er Mansion – Imperial Chinese Christmas Dining with Cultural Fusion

Unique East-Meets-West Holiday Concept

Xiu'er Mansion in Financial Street takes a completely different approach to Beijing Christmas dinner. Instead of copying Western traditions, they blend China's finest imperial cuisine with festive decorations in a way that feels fresh and authentic to Beijing.

Distinctive Christmas Atmosphere

A black and gold retro interior is in place. But your first view will be of their signature pink rose Christmas tree—a bold design choice which comes without red and green, but is rather delightful as far as photography goes. The large windows ensure that Financial Street’s glamorous night scene is easy to admire. It’s all a bit like falling into a fairytale, but written for the Chinese version of yourself.

Imperial Holiday Menu

The menu is imperial food with a Christmasy shine on it. You might enjoy an appetizer of deep black vinegar fragrant black pork. Sample crispy deer tendon chips. The pièce de résistance is their ultimate Peking duck, sliced table side by a feathered fingered chef (there’s got to be some artistry in the carving!) and the Chinese version of Christmas turkey (sorry, turkey, you’ve really got nothing on this one). The “three way” tiger grouper lets you sample the fish, steamed, with spicy peppers or in boiling broth. Kung Pao shrimp, your old friend, completes the picture.

It’s where Beijing really catches up to the West at Christmas. Rather than try to imitate the spate of Proto Western restaurants like Sanjia, Xiu’er Mansion explains Christmas as China presents in its finest culinary style.

📍 Address: 3/F, Financial Street Center Tower B, Xicheng District | 金融街中心B座3层
💰 Price: Mid-to-high range (inquire for Christmas set menu)
🅿️ Parking: Available at B2 & B3 levels
🎨 Instagram Highlight: Pink rose Christmas tree
📞 Reservation: Contact 2 weeks ahead
👥 Best For: Chinese cuisine enthusiasts, cultural fusion experiences

Personal Tip: This represents Beijing's unique approach to Christmas – Peking duck replacing turkey works beautifully.

5. Universal Beijing Resort "Lotus Garden" – Family-Friendly Christmas Celebration

Theme Park Dining Experience

The Lotus Garden restaurant at Universal Studios Grand Hotel brings theme park excitement to your Christmas dinner table. From December 24 through January 1, they roll out a winter holiday buffet that families absolutely love. It's worth noting that this Beijing Christmas dinner option sits about an hour from central Beijing, so plan accordingly.

Christmas Buffet and Entertainment

Meandering between stations, the international buffet has something for everyone. Roasted turkey with all the trimmings, honey-glazed ham, tomahawk steaks: all the classics are here as well as fresh lobster and holiday desserts and pies. And yes, those drinks will flow right through the night, with unlimited juice and non-alcoholic cocktails.

What’s more enjoyable than this Christmas dinner in Beijing is the entertainment factor: Minions wander the dining room on Christmas Eve for giant hugs and photos with your kids. A lucky draw livens up the night and every child guest receives a gift that is uniquely Christmas! Think energetic rather than serene and intimate – this is a theme park hotel after all!

📍 Address: 2/F, Universal Studios Grand Hotel, Beijing Universal Resort | 北京环球度假区环球影城大酒店二层
💰 Price: Check official channels for Christmas buffet packages
🕐 Period: December 24, 2025 – January 1, 2026
🎫 Access: May require Universal Resort ticket or hotel guest status
🚗 Transportation: 1 hour from central Beijing; shuttle buses available
👥 Best For: Families with children, theme park enthusiasts

🎅 Quick heads-up — if Hogwarts-level holiday vibes are your thing, our Christmas at Universal Beijing Resort 2025 guide has you covered.

6. Panorama (Sanlitun) – French Bistro Christmas Dining in Beijing

French Bistro Atmosphere

Nestled away in the courtyard of the Sanlitun Jidianyuan complex, Panorama recreates the atmosphere of a 1950s Parisian Left Bank café and draws the Beijing expat crowd looking to relax over authentic European flavors. With its yellow lighting, wooden tables and chairs, live plants sprucing up the corners, and unlikely inclusion of Christmas decorations into French bohemian chic, the vibe feels beamed down from an old Paris movie with Audrey Hepburn enjoying a glass of wine while snow falls outside.

Winter Specialties

Winter's signature dish for your Beijing Christmas dinner is their cheese fondue, perfect for cold Beijing nights. Dip crusty bread into bubbling cheese while chatting with friends. Their secret-recipe pork chop consistently ranks among customer favorites. For dessert, the flaming crepe with caramelized apples and vanilla ice cream provides tableside drama. Beef lasagna offers hearty comfort, and creative cocktails complement the food menu beautifully.

📍 Address: Building 81, Jidianyuan, Sanlitun Road | 三里屯路机电院81号楼
💰 Price: Mid-range, good value (~200-400 CNY/person)
🍷 Drink Highlight: Mulled wine, creative cocktails
🕐 Tip: Reserve window seats; dinner rush 7-9pm
👥 Best For: Romantic dates, French cuisine fans, expat community

Personal Tip: Visit at dusk to watch Sanlitun's Christmas lights flicker to life through the café windows.

7. LOKAL (Sanlitun Taikoo Li) – Nordic Hygge Christmas Hideaway

Cozy Nordic Concept

Tucked away on the third floor of Taikoo Li Sanlitun, LOKAL goes from casual bistro to warm Christmas cottage this holiday season. This Nordic-style cafe embodies “hygge”, the Danish concept of comfortableness.

Every table seems bathed in soft, flattering light that makes you appear quite put together in any Instagram photo. Christmas decorations give a cracker party feel in an intimate sort of space. You would have never known you are in the consumer hub of Taikoo Li if not for your shopping gains!

Christmas Specialties

The star of the show at LOKAL is their Pistachio Christmas Hat Basque Cake, a cute dessert that begs for photos before you take a slice. And if you’re looking to ward off the chill of winter in Beijing, there’s their cinnamon orange mulled wine, a warming cup of sweet citrus. Elsewhere you can find some other nordic-inspired righteous and small plates.

On a cold winter’s night in Beijing at Christmas time, you’ll find exactly what you need at LOKAL – a little sweet refuge, wrapped in soft light. The hygge factor is no joke, you’ll feel more like you’ve been invited into a friend’s living room rather than a restaurant.

📍 Address: 3/F, Building 8, Taikoo Li Sanlitun, Shop S8-33 | 三里屯路19号院三里屯太古里8号楼3层S8-33
💰 Price: Mid-range, excellent value (~150-300 CNY/person)
🍰 Must-Try: Pistachio Christmas Hat Basque Cake
🛍️ Combo Tip: Shop Taikoo Li, then dinner at LOKAL
👥 Best For: Couples, friend gatherings, Instagram enthusiasts

Personal Tip: Since you're at Taikoo Li for shopping, this makes the perfect dinner stop.

8. The Boots "Get Holiday" – Budget-Friendly Christmas Dining in Beijing

Affordable Festive Dining

The Boots shows you don’t need a deep pocket for a Beijing Christmas dinner. Get your festive vibe on from just 155rmb a head at this Sanlitun café, where the atmosphere is seriously jolly and the food… well, I suspect it’s good.

Walk in to Christmas decorations the moment you hit the door, and danger of good taste being burnt to a crisp if you hang around to long in this beguiling, comfortable environment that has made it popular among Chinese diners for “pretty meals” (food which is as good looking as it is delicious). Every inch looks ready to be photographed, but somehow not tacky.

Signature Dishes

Their Mixed Berry Tiramisu is the undisputed star. Raspberries and cherries pile high on this dessert, making it almost too pretty to eat (almost!). The Porcini Mushroom Pasta delivers rich, earthy flavors. Wild Berry Pistachio Cheese Ciabatta provides satisfying textures and bright tastes. Each dish balances visual appeal with genuine deliciousness.

📍 Address: 3/F, Building 4, Taikoo Li South, Unit S4-30 | 朝阳区三里屯太古里南区4号楼3层S4-30
💰 Price: ~155 CNY per person (budget champion!)
📸 Photo Highlights: Berry tiramisu, entrance decorations
⏰ Peak Warning: Book via Dianping or face 1+ hour waits
👥 Best For: Budget travelers, casual friend hangouts

Personal Tip: Book via Dianping app during holidays to avoid long waits.

9. Gubei Water Town – Christmas Dinner at the Great Wall

Ultimate Beijing Christmas Experience

Gubei Water Town. Located at the base of Simatai Great Wall, this ancient style village becomes a magical Christmas village like no other in Beijing. Located about two hours away from central Beijing, it requires a specific commitment but the reward is worth it.

Great Wall Christmas Activities

This special festival is cherished through and through by the whole town. Riyue Island Plaza, where festivities also include Christmas parades with entertainers strutting their stuff on the streets, and placards with music giving it all away. The Christmas market for handmade crafts and local snacks; the live fairytale theater performing even for the little kids, a mountaintop church offers Christmas afternoon tea.

Arrow Tower Steakhouse Holiday Dinner

For dinner, the Arrow Tower Steakhouse presents Christmas feasts centered on premium steaks and roasted turkey. The Nordic-inspired interior features warm wood tones with Christmas decorations.

Complete Great Wall Christmas Itinerary

Start your day in the mesmerising Simatai Great Wall, hiking (snowy winter mornings are the best for fewer crowds). Enjoy a slow afternoon as you stroll through the idyllic water town and browse its festive Christmas market.

Conclude your Beijing Christmas dinner at your favourite steakhouse, and dream sweet dreams for the night at hot spring hotels. Where else can one walk ancient sections of Great Walls in the morning, visit European-style Christmas markets in the afternoon, and dine on steak under the stars in the evening?

📍 Address: Simatai Village, Miyun District (120km from Beijing) | 北京市密云区古北水镇司马台村
🎫 Admission: ~140 CNY water town entry (separate from dining)
🍽️ Dining: Budget separately (~300-500 CNY/person)
🏨 Overnight: Book packages early (hot spring hotels available)
🚌 Transportation: Direct bus from Dongzhimen (~50 CNY) or private car (~400-500 CNY)
👥 Best For: Adventurous travelers, Great Wall enthusiasts, overnight trippers

Personal Tip: Overnight stays let you enjoy sunset, dinner, and peaceful morning views without rushing.

Booking Your Beijing Christmas Dinner: Essential Tips 2025

Reservation Timeline and Methods

Luxury restaurants like Peninsula Jing and China World 79 require 3-4 weeks advance booking. Popular hotel venues including Grand Hyatt need 2-3 weeks notice. Casual bistros accept reservations 1-2 weeks ahead. For Gubei Water Town packages, start looking 2 weeks early since accommodation sells out quickly.

Direct phone calls work best for Beijing Christmas dinner reservations. You can specify preferences like window seats or dietary restrictions. Most restaurants require 24-48 hours notice for cancellations, and Christmas bookings often demand deposits of 20-30%.

Chinese Booking Phrase: "我想预订圣诞节晚餐，十二月二十五日，晚上七点，两位。" (I'd like to book Christmas dinner for December 25, 7pm, 2 people.)

Getting to Your Christmas Dinner

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day bring heavy traffic to commercial districts like Sanlitun, Guomao, and Wangfujing, especially 6-9pm. Leave 30-45 minutes earlier than usual.

The Beijing Metro is your best option – fast, reliable, immune to traffic jams. For Sanlitun restaurants, use Line 10 Tuanjiehu or Liangmaqiao stations. Peninsula in Wangfujing connects to Line 1 Wangfujing station. China World sits right above Lines 1 and 10 Guomao station. For taxis, download Didi (requires Chinese phone number) or Amap (English interface). The most reliable Christmas Eve option is asking your hotel concierge to book a taxi in advance.

What to Wear for Christmas Dining

Luxury hotels like Peninsula and China World expect smart casual to business casual attire. Men should wear collared shirts with dress pants; women look appropriate in dresses or nice blouses. Bistros embrace casual chic – jeans work fine with a nice top. Gubei Water Town demands warmth over style: thermal layers, waterproof boots, winter hat, gloves, and scarf are essential.

Beijing December weather runs -5°C to 5°C with possible snow. Restaurants blast heat while outside air freezes, so layer your clothing. Pack cash (500-1000 CNY backup), a phone charger, and perhaps a small gift if meeting friends.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing Christmas Dining

Q: Is Christmas widely celebrated in Beijing?

Christmas isn't a traditional Chinese holiday, but Beijing embraces it enthusiastically for commercial and social reasons. The expat community and young Chinese people celebrate actively, with shopping malls and restaurants creating elaborate decorations throughout December. Everything stays open since December 25 is a regular workday, which actually benefits visitors. You can enjoy Christmas festivities without the closures affecting Western countries, creating a unique celebration atmosphere.

Q: Can I really combine a Great Wall visit with Christmas dinner?

Not only can you combine them – I highly recommend this as Beijing's most unique Christmas experience. Start your morning at Mutianyu or Simatai Great Wall around 9am when crowds are lightest. Spend 2-3 hours hiking and photographing winter landscapes. By afternoon, return to central Beijing for an evening reservation or stay at Gubei Water Town for their steakhouse dinner. The logistics require planning but absolutely work for an unforgettable Beijing Christmas dinner.

Q: Do I need to book restaurants far in advance for Christmas?

Absolutely yes, and earlier than you might expect for Beijing Christmas dinner. Luxury restaurants require bookings 3-4 weeks ahead, while popular mid-range spots need 2-3 weeks notice. Even casual bistros appreciate 1-2 weeks advance reservations during Christmas week. Start your booking process in early December. Walk-ins carry huge risk on Christmas Eve especially, as TripAdvisor travelers report two-hour waits or complete rejection without reservations.

Q: What's a reasonable budget for Christmas dinner in Beijing?

Budget expectations vary dramatically. At the lowest end, places like The Boots deliver full Christmas atmosphere for 155-300 yuan per person. Mid-range options including Grand Hyatt buffets run 300-1000 yuan per person. Luxury venues like Peninsula Jing or China World 79 start at 1000 yuan and climb from there. Gubei Water Town requires 140 yuan entrance plus 300-500 yuan dining. Remember that high-end restaurants add 10-15% service charges automatically.

Q: Should I celebrate on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?

This depends on atmosphere preference. Christmas Eve buzzes with energy and party vibes, featuring special events with live music and countdown celebrations. Crowds run larger and prices sometimes edge higher. Christmas Day offers quieter, more relaxed dining better suited for family meals. More restaurants offer all-day brunch and buffet options on the 25th. If combining dinner with a Great Wall visit, Christmas Day works perfectly.

Q: Are Beijing Christmas markets worth visiting before dinner?

Beijing's Christmas markets are smaller than European versions but still enjoyable. Wangfujing Street features Christmas displays and popup market stalls throughout December. The German Embassy hosts a popular Christmas bazaar (requires passport; tickets sell fast). Gubei Water Town operates the most extensive Christmas market with craft vendors and festive atmosphere. Many visitors recommend timing your market visit for late afternoon, then heading to nearby restaurants for your Beijing Christmas dinner.