Events Guide · The Grand Palace, Sydney CBD
Why The Grand Palace Is Sydney's Best Choice for Christmas Lunch & Dinner
Skip the traditional roast — The Grand Palace is open Christmas Day for a sit-down Indian lunch and dinner in the heart of Sydney CBD.
At a Glance
Basement, 261 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 (02) 8021 7696 bookings@thegrandpalace.com.auThe Grand Palace stays open through Christmas Day, serving lunch and dinner to families, friends and colleagues who want something other than the usual roast. It's a genuine dine-in booking — table service, full menu, festive room — at Basement, 261 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
Quick Answer
The Grand Palace is open for dine-in Christmas lunch (12pm–3pm) and dinner (5pm–10pm) at its Sydney CBD dining room, with set menus from $40 per person and full à la carte. A 10% public holiday surcharge applies on the day, and tables typically sell out 3–4 weeks in advance.
Yes, We're Open on Christmas Day
The Grand Palace trades as normal on Christmas Day for both lunch and dinner. A 10% public holiday surcharge applies, and given how quickly Christmas Day tables fill, booking ahead isn't optional if you want a specific time.
An Indian Christmas Feast Instead of the Usual Roast
For families and groups who'd rather not do turkey and gravy again, a proper Indian fine dining Christmas is a genuine change of pace — bold, warming flavours in a dining room set up to feel like an occasion, not a fallback.
Set Menus from $40pp
Straightforward group dining, no separate ordering needed.
Every Diet Covered
Vegetarian, vegan, Jain and gluten-free options across the menu.
Suits Any Group
Family gatherings, friend groups and corporate Christmas dinners alike.
What's on the Christmas Menu
The full menu runs on Christmas Day, spanning starters through to dessert.
Starters
Paneer Tikka, Seekh Kebab, Samosa Chaat, Hara Bhara Kebab
Mains
Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Rogan Josh, Kadhai Paneer
Biryani and Breads
Chicken Biryani, Vegetable Biryani, Garlic Naan, Laccha Paratha
Desserts and Drinks
Gulab Jamun, Kheer, Kulfi, Mango Lassi
Booking Early Matters
Christmas is one of our busiest dining days of the year — we recommend booking 3–4 weeks ahead to lock in your preferred lunch or dinner time. Book online, call (02) 8021 7696, or email bookings@thegrandpalace.com.au for larger groups.
Conclusion
Staying open through lunch and dinner on Christmas Day, with table service and the full menu running as normal, is what sets The Grand Palace apart from venues that scale back or close entirely for the holiday.
For anyone after a genuine change from the usual roast — or simply somewhere reliable to gather on the day — booking 3–4 weeks ahead is the one step that matters most given how quickly Christmas Day tables fill. Lock in your lunch or dinner slot now.
Ready to experience it yourself? Tables fill fast on weeknights.
Nirav Shah
Nirav Shah is a hospitality professional with a strong passion for food culture, restaurant design, and exceptional customer experience. From over 10 years, he has explored Sydney’s diverse culinary scene with a thoughtful and informed perspective, gaining hands-on insight into how successful restaurants deliver quality dining.
With a deep appreciation for flavor, ambience, and service, Nirav focuses on both lunch and dinner experiences when evaluating dining venues. His recommendations are shaped by personal visits and careful research, highlighting restaurants that consistently offer memorable and well-rounded dining experiences worth returning to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Grand Palace open on Christmas Day?
Yes — for both lunch (12pm–3pm) and dinner (5pm–10pm). A 10% public holiday surcharge applies on the day.
How far ahead should I book Christmas lunch or dinner?
3–4 weeks ahead is recommended — Christmas Day tables at The Grand Palace typically sell out well before December.
What's on the Christmas Day menu?
The full à la carte menu runs as normal, plus set menus from $40pp, spanning starters, mains, biryani, breads and desserts.
Can The Grand Palace seat a large family or corporate Christmas group?
Yes — the dining room suits family gatherings and corporate Christmas dinners, and set menus simplify ordering for larger tables.
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