What’s open for Christmas lunch in regional NSW?

I don’t know about you, but some years I feel like side-swiping the whole ‘perfect festive table setting era’ that comes with Christmas Day. Don’t get me wrong, I still kinda swoon at the sight of napery wrapped in tiny thyme wreaths, crockery featuring beanie-adorned squirrels and a tablecloth, table runner, candelabra combo that puts Lady Gaga’s wardrobe to shame. Then I remember, I’m not that person.

Not to mention the cooking. Not my forte on an ordinary day, let alone the one day of the year where multiple dishes need to be perfectly timed to arrive on the previously-described fabulous festive table in unison, piping hot and ready to be devoured by your nearest and dearest. Every year, without fail, I seriously consider investing in Kmart’s coveted bain marie (legit just Googled ‘thing that keeps food warm on Christmas Day’ to remember the name of the thing). And then every year I remember the precious bench space it would require, before ultimately ending up in the shed for the other 364 days of the year. My point being, it’s full on – bloody lovely a lot of the time, but an epic juggle and perhaps something we don’t need to add to our mind / body / soul every single year.

Enter the concept of CHRISTMAS LUNCH OUT.

Yep, I went there. And so did these regional venues. Check out the below guide to places open for Christmas lunch this year… perfect table setting, delicious menu, festive cheer and washing up included.

Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth by Rydges

You’ll be hard-pressed choosing your festive feast at the Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth. On this year’s Christmas menu you’ll find oysters and smoked salmon, Jack’s Creek beef chargrilled scotch fillet, roast pork belly, honey roasted ham and roasted quast turkey. Then there’s the desserts – Christmas pudding and gingerbread trifle to name just two on the list. Get in fast, pricing from $179.

248 Armidale Road | Tamworth NSW 2340 | (02) 6766 7000 | Book here

Tattersalls Hotel Armidale 

One word – buffet. Yep, the team at Tattersalls Hotel Armidale are on a mission to take all that festive stress away thanks to their Christmas buffet featuring seafoods, salads, main courses and desserts. Kids under 10 eat free, $85/head for children aged 10-17, $165/head for adults. Seating from 11am.

174 Beardy Street | Armidale NSW 2350 | (02) 6773 9600 | Book here

Michael’s Cafe

One of Uralla’s favourite cafes is pulling out all the stops this year and hosting Christmas lunch! Given the menu is an utter delight every other day of the year, we’re certain this will be no exception. Give Michael a call directly on 0421 418 454 to find out more.

98 Bridge Street | Uralla NSW 2358 | 0421 418 454

The Union

When your go-to country pub becomes your festive season lifesaver – enter The Union in the heart of Inverell. These guys will be serving up all the classics, complete with your regular schooner, vino or G&T. Give them a buzz for all the juicy details like seating times and prices.

79 Otho Street | Inverell NSW 2360 | (02) 6721 3359 | Book here

Gigi’s Restaurant

Join the Gigi’s crew in Mudgee this Christmas and you’ll be treated to a family-style lunch featuring signature faves and seasonal dishes, all made with the freshest local ingredients. We’re talking whole baked market fish with lemon, basil and chilli, roast pork belly with blackberry and apple sauce, and roast duck with a cherry and pomegranate glaze. Rounded off with a sherry-filled doughnut! Priced at $140/head for adults with a complimentary sparkling wine or beer, $180/head for children aged 12 and under including a complimentary soft drink.

1 Sydney Road | Mudgee NSW 2850 | (02) 6372 1122 | Book here

The Oriana

You’re invited to a festive pool party at The Oriana! First, there’s the buffet lunch served from 12.00pm–4.00pm, then there’s the all day drinks buffet (Aperol spritz anyone?!), THEN there’s free access to the pool club – all ages welcome. Adults are $240/head, teens aged 13-17 are $180/head, children aged three to 12 are $75/head and children under three eat free. Towels and fun times provided for all!

178-184 Woodford Street | Orange NSW 2800 | (02) 6362 3066 | Book here

Rydges Port Macquarie 

Ever had Christmas lunch in a ballroom? Now’s your chance! Rydges Port Macquarie will be serving up succulent roast pork and turkey, honey mustard glazed ham and perfectly roasted veggies in their festive-themed ballroom overlooking the Hastings River. Just add a glass of bubbles and something sweet for dessert and you’re in Christmas Day heaven. Adults are priced at $199/ head, children 12-17 $99/head, children five to 11 $79/head and children under five eat free.

11 Hay Street | Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | (02) 6589 2888 | Book here

The Plantation Hotel

Delicious buffet? Check. Drinks package? Check. Christmas bon bons and festive decorations? Check. What could make this picture any better? That’s right, SANTA. Christmas lunch at The Plantation Hotel comes complete with live entertainment and a visit from Santa! Get in pronto. Adults are priced at $150/head, 65+ $130/head, children aged 12-17 $70/head and 12 years and under $50/head.

88 Grafton Street | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 6601 9160 | Book here 

Restaurant Botanica

Go on, treat yourself, it’s Christmas after all – so why not indulge in a three-course festive menu, accompanied by exquisite wines at Restaurant Botanica? From the house made ciabatta to the grilled scallops, the herb roasted trout to the cherry and peach Eton mess, you’ll love every moment of this menu. Priced at $249/head, from 12.00pm–2.00pm.

555 Hermitage Road | Pokolbin NSW 2320 | (02) 6574 7229 | Book here

Open for Christmas Day and would like to be added to this guide? Email steph@foundregional.com.au