Almost impossibly, it’s that time of the year again. The last three months have actually evaporated and we are concerned that no one is talking about the pace at which the months are flying.
The silly season has snuck up on us once more and is now hot on our feels. Excitement is building and stomachs are rumbling. The idea, or dilemma, of the Christmas Lunch in on our minds.
If it’s on your mind, too, but cooking isn’t something you’re into on Christmas, then it’s likely you’ll appreciate our handy list of the top venues that are putting on Christmas lunch across the Central Coast. Kicking back in these top spots to enjoy a sit-down Christmas feast is a great way to remove all that stress and planning, as well as eat some delicious cuisines ranging from fancy contemporary seafood to your more traditional spread.
So consider Christmas lunch 2024 an item you can check off your to-do list. But, like anything at this time of year, you have to book early to avoid disappointment (many restaurants are already booked out).
RELATED: Here’s 45 Central Coast Restaurants You Need to Visit
1. The Cowrie, Terrigal
This year’s delightful three-course shared table menu is nearly SOLD OUT this Christmas at The Cowrie. Ever so popular and always worth a mention. Featuring fresh seafood, savoury roasts, and exquisite desserts, with plant-based options available, this has to be one of the most exclusive and popular Christmas lunch offerings.
Guests can enhance the experience with expertly paired wines or enjoy the children’s menu designed just for younger guests (at a reduced price). Pricing starts at $270 per person, with wine pairings available for $310.
Limited tickets are still left here. But get in QUICK!
If you miss out on celebrating Christmas in style, why not ring in the New Year with an unforgettable dining experience at The Cowrie! Treat yourself to a luxurious 5-course degustation menu, starting with champagne on arrival and moving through a lineup of exquisite dishes like wild mushroom risotto, a “sea tastes” medley of abalone and scallops, tender goose breast, a selection of cheeses, and a decadent glazed chocolate delice to finish. Choose from three options: the 5-course experience at $225 per person, paired wines at $295, or an elevated selection with sommelier’s cellar wines at $345. Make your final meal of 2024 one to remember at The Cowrie! Final tickets are available here!
The Cowrie has extended trading hours over the Christmas and holiday period, opening both on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day for lunch and dinner service – so be sure to book your table for an unforgettable dining experience with incredible views of the sea.
Visit their website for more info, or follow them on Instagram for inspiration.
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2. The Beachcomber Hotel, Toukley
Book by December 7, and get a free 2-hour drinks package, including house beer, wine, and soft drinks—cheers to that!
Treat yourself to a luxe Christmas Day lunch by the water. Enjoy a handpicked selection of fresh seafood, a traditional Christmas carvery, and an array of tempting sides and desserts. Bring the family, there are three different seating times.
Sitting Times:
11:30 am – 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Pricing:
Adults: $175
Teens (12-17): $105
Children (5-11): $65
Kids under 5: Free
Bookings can be made here.
3. Pullman Magenta Shores, Magenta
If stunning scenery and delicious seafood is on your prerequisites list, look no further than Pullman Magenta Shores. Wrap up your Christmas celebrations in style with a mouthwatering buffet spread featuring fresh seafood, a variety of delicious salads, and traditional Christmas dishes with all the trimmings. Enjoy it all at Barretts Restaurant and Shallows Bar, complete with stunning views over the lake and Magenta Shores Golf Course.
Last Sitting Available:
2:30 pm – 4:30 pm (strictly 2 hours)
Pricing:
Adults: $220 (includes full buffet and 2-hour beverage package)
Teens (13-17): $180 (includes buffet and soft drinks package)
Children (5-12): $80 (includes buffet, soft drinks package, and a special gift)
Infants (4 & under): Free (includes buffet, soft drinks, and a gift)
Accor members can access discounted pricing.
Don’t miss out on a memorable, laid-back holiday meal! Book here.
4. Ocean Beach Hotel, Umina
Sit back, relax, and leave the cooking (and cleaning) to the team at the Ocean Beach Hotel. Promising delicious Christmas fare. So dust off your Santa hat and get involved.
Book your spot here.
5. Central Coast Leagues Club, Gosford
Join the team at the Central Coast Leagues Club for a Christmas Day filled with indulgent buffets, festive drinks, and joyful live entertainment. Enjoy a mouthwatering spread of hot and cold holiday favourites crafted by our talented chefs, all served with impeccable service.
Seats are limited, so book now to make this a Christmas to remember!
Top Christmas Lunch Venues Central Coast
6. Meribella, Crowne Plaza Terrigal
LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE: Get ready to take your Christmas Day to the next level with a fabulous, feast-worthy lunch created by none other than award-winning Head Chef Joshua Mason! This indulgent, banquet-style meal combines the best seasonal flavours with a premium drinks package, making it the ultimate festive experience.
Serving a seafood platter and charcuterie board to start, before the main event: roasted Humpty Doo barramundi, a delightful Balmain bug pasta, and roasted duck with confit legs paired with a cherry jus. And for a sweet finish? A beautifully shared crème caramel and a festive strawberry and Champagne trifle layered with house-made custard, vanilla sponge, and poached fruits—desserts that will definitely put the “merry” in Merry Christmas!
Tickets are selling FAST*, so be sure to book yours TODAY!
📅 When: Wednesday, 25 December, from 12 pm
💸 Prices:
Adults: $385 (includes 3-hour premium beverage package)
Teens (13-17): $295
Kids (5-12): $235
Infants (0-4): Free
*limited tickets still available at time of publishing
Don’t miss your chance to reserve a seat at this unmissable Christmas Day feast! Book here.
7. Mercure Kooindah Waters, Wyong
LIMITED TICKETS LEFT: With 4 different sittings throughout the day, you can enjoy an all-inclusive seafood buffet with house beer, wine and soft drinks included in the ticket price. They also offer VIP banquet-like experiences with private rooms and waiters.
Guests staying at the resort can purchase a special Christmas Hamper for $190.00, filled with festive goodies to take home and enjoy.
Bookings: click here
RELATED: Santa Photos: Where To Get Them 2024
Christmas Lunch Central Coast – Already Sold Out venues include:
As a reminder, if you wish to try any of these popular venues in 2025, you need to get in early. Their 2024 offering is already SOLD OUT.
- Ettalong Diggers
- The Wild Flower Bar & Dining at Bells at Killcare – WAITLIST ONLY
- Gosford RSL
- The Doylo
Congratulation!