Chichester comes alive during the festive season, offering an array of dining and entertainment options that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. From fine dining to cosy Christmas catch-ups and unique eating experiences, our city has something for everyone. Let’s embark on a culinary journey through Chichester and explore the festive feasting and entertainment that make this season truly special.
1. Elevated Elegance: Chichester’s Fine Dining Flavours
Chichester’s fine dining establishments, including The Ivy Chichester, Purchases Bar and Restaurant, Cote Brasserie, and The Restaurant at the Chichester Harbour Hotel, shine even brighter during the festive season. As twinkling lights adorn the streets, these restaurants offer an exquisite blend of gourmet cuisine and seasonal charm. For a midweek treat, take advantage of Purchases’ Sparkling Tuesday when you’ll receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival and 20% off the set menu.
2. Sipping into the Season: Chichester’s Merry Mixology
When the chilly air calls for a bit of warmth, Chichester’s bars step up to the plate, serving up enticing concoctions that will have you toasting to the spirit of Christmas. Chichester’s underground live music venue, La Havana, makes a perfect party venue, and for after-hours fun, The Chantry and The Vestry will send your festive frivolity sky-high.
3. Cosy Corners and Culinary Conversations: Chichester’s Festive Hideaways
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of getting ready for Christmastime, all you need is a cosy corner and great company. Chichester’s cafes transform into snug hideaways, perfect for catching up with friends and loved ones during the festive season. Seek out St Martin’s Coffee House, Trading Post Coffee Roasters, Naima Coffee, Crispins Cafe, and many more.
4. Tea Time Treasures: Chichester’s Festive Afternoon Delights
Indulge in the timeless tradition of afternoon tea with a festive twist. Chichester’s tearooms offer delectable treats, steaming cups of tea, and even a glass of Christmas bubbles, creating the perfect ambiance for an afternoon of relaxation and celebration. Choose from Joanna’s Boutique Tearoom, The Chichester Harbour Hotel, Bills Restaurant in The Buttery, The Ivy Chichester, and other delightful venues.
5. Unconventional Feasts: Chichester’s Culinary Adventures
For those seeking something out of the ordinary, Chichester has its fair share of unique dining experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a taste of the extraordinary. Start with The Barn Little London, where you can book your own ski chalet in the courtyard, complete with heating and cosy blankets, for a winter experience not to be missed. Luckes, Cafe Paradiso, and The Sty in Chi all offer wonderful lunch menus to suit all tastes, from vegetarian to fresh salads, and the most incredible pulled pork sausage rolls you’ll ever taste.
6. Global Flavours, Local Charm: Chichester’s International Offerings
Explore the global flavours of Chichester this Christmas. Whether you’re craving Italian, Indian, or any other international cuisine, the city’s diverse eateries have something special in store. For a taste of Greece, savour Santorini on South Street. Looking for a touch of Turkish meze? Reina kitchen on Market Avenue is where you’ll need to go. The Hornet and St Pancras are home to an eclectic mix of Thai, Indian, Chinese, and British cuisines, while Confucius and Phoenix Dining take their inspiration from the East. With several of these restaurants open on Christmas day, including India Gate, it’s the perfect option for if you’re turning your back on tradition this year.
7. Ales, Tales, and Festive Cheers: Chichester’s Pubs and Microbrewery Gems
Chichester’s historic pubs, including The Hole in the Wall, The Fountain, and The Nags Head, along with independent microbreweries such as Little Monster Tap, The Escapist, and Crafty Bishop, come alive with the warmth of traditional charm and the excitement of craft ales. Raise a glass to the festive season in these iconic venues and enjoy live music and open mic evenings in the run-up to Christmas. Music lovers will not want to miss the City Sounds Festival from 12pm on Saturday 25 November, at no fewer than seven venues across the city centre.
8. Family-Friendly Festive Dining
Chichester’s festive dining scene isn’t just for adults; it welcomes families with open arms. Many restaurants in the city offer special family-friendly menus and atmospheres during the season. You can indulge in delicious meals while making cherished memories with your loved ones. Enjoy quality time together over delectable dishes and create lasting festive traditions with your family.
9. Seeing in the New Year
As the year draws to a close, celebrate the arrival of a new one in style in the city of Chichester. The Chantry is hosting a magnificent masquerade ball until 4 am, and what’s even better is that there’s free entry before midnight. But that’s not all! Keep your eyes peeled on our events page as we continue to add more New Year’s Eve parties hosted by our city centre businesses. The celebrations are just beginning!
10. Giving the Gift of Gastronomy: Chichester’s Alive After Five Experience
Unwrapping seasonal spirit just got easier with the Alive After Five Chichester Gift Card. The ultimate gift for the foodie in your life, discover how this unique offering can add a dash of excitement to your Chichester dining and entertainment experience.
Here we’ve explored Chichester city’s Festive Dining and Entertainment. But the festivities don’t end here. For a comprehensive guide to all things Christmas in Chichester, including events, activities, and further planning, visit our Christmas in Chichester page.