Is there anywhere more magical at Christmas time than London's Covent Garden? The piazza is home to a festive market, the streets are decorated with illuminations and Sarastro is in full swing, welcoming bookings for Christmas parties.
If you're not yet familiar with Sarastro, this flamboyant restaurant has stood on the iconic Drury Lane since 1996 and uses the surrounding theatreland as inspiration for its atmospheric decor. The main restaurant is hued in red and gold tones, with seating situated not only on the ground floor, but positioned up in boxes around the space - like you would see at the theatre.
From the ceiling, huge ornaments hang and around the space guests can enjoy beautiful floral arrangements, statues and glamorous seating, which at Christmas is amplified with baubles, tinsel and beads accenting almost every surface.
The team have put together a special Noel Menu for this time of year, designed for groups of five or more. You're welcome to take your pick of starters like hummus with tahini, garlic and lemon juice, alongside cheese borek pastries and beef and lamb kofte. For mains, you can enjoy the likes of roast chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms and mixed peppers with carrot purée and sultana sauce, as well as a rack of lamb with dauphinoise potatoes, shakshouka, garlic confit and thyme jus. There's also some brilliant vegan options, such as dolma with aubergine, courgette and peppers stuffed with vegetable rice. For dessert, you really can't go wrong with Christmas pudding and custard, but if you fancy something less seasonal, try the chocolate hazelnut slice, or we like the sound of poached pear topped with vanilla and cinnamon.
Sarastro is also known for its in-house entertainment, with live singers and bands playing throughout the week, which add to the atmosphere and cement this as a truly special spot in central London.