For some the fear of failure looms over Christmas dinner like the ghost of guilt trips past, and for others it's just a regular wintry day deserving of delicious eats. Either way, if you are in the GTA, don't stress! The 'burbs are filled with plenty of delicious dining spots where December 25th is just another business day, open to everyone.
Omei Restaurant, Richmond Hill
Omei is famous for their lobster 4 ways special, which runs for about $21.95 per pound. And if restaurant owner/manager Ringo is working, you might even be able to get him to sing you a tune -- his specialty is the Bee Gees, everyday.
Breakwater Fine Dining, Port Credit (Mississauga)
This CAA 4 Diamond Award winning restaurant located in Port Credit's Waterside Inn makes high end an art form. Offering a dinner buffet on December 24 for $48.95, and for $64.95 on the 25, make sure you call to reserve your spot. Don't miss out on buffet highlights such as their gourmet sushi and sashimi, and risotto stations.
Persian Palace, Richmond Hill
Built into what was once an old motel, Persian Palace is a perfect choice for dining on both December 24 and 25. On Christmas Eve $45/person will get you food, wine and live entertainment including belly dancing, and a DJ, while on the 25 they'll be offering regular lunch and dinner service. Pro tip: order the Mirza Ghasemi (sautéed eggplant appetizer) and one of their Kebab options.
Fancy Chinese Cuisine, Markham
You'll want to make a reservation for this spot because on Christmas day they'll be serving up their popular weekend menu and they expect to be busy! Locals know that the best bang for your buck is to do the set dinner menu, but with their fair prices and popular a la carte options such as Peking duck, egg and shrimp fried rice (with onions) and braised fish with tofu, a group of three can leave full for around $60.
Tandoori Flame, Brampton
The pakoras are perfectly battered, the na'an fresh and garlic covered, and with more curries than one could hope to eat in a week, Tandoori Flame is the only spot you'll need to bring your family for an all you can eat Indian buffet. Their regular dinner price of $22.99 will hold steady over the holidays but expect a larger selection on the buffet between the 24 and the 26.
Acacia Fine Foods, Mississauga
This new Lebanese style fast food joint is the perfect option if you're looking for a quick meal before getting back to your movie marathon at home. With an emphasis on high quality ingredients, and made to order staples like falafel, hummus, pita and kabob, not to mention baklava you'll be pressing pause again to come back later for dessert.
Phoenix Restaurant, Markham
Although famous for their Hainan chicken with rice (a must try Singaporean Chicken dish), those who still crave the taste of tradition around the holidays are in luck! Rumor has it that each year around this time they offer a special Christmas set which includes... you guessed it, turkey! Call ahead for availability, as it's popular.
Aristotle's Steak & Seafood, Mississauga
Cut from the same cloth as many other old school steakhouses, Aristotle's is offering a limited seating Christmas day buffet for $39.95. Ordering a la carte? Locals tend to love the prime rib, filet mignon and Chateaubriand for two, but always be sure to start with the table-side Caesar salad to kick things off.
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