I have to come straight out and say it: I love Christmas. I have always been a sucker for it all and could be tempted to have my first mince pie and brandy butter at any point. I have such magical memories of my Mum taking my siblings and me to see the lights at Harrods or to Carols at the Royal Albert Hall. Then large family gatherings, much eating, drinking and plenty of hospitality. Now I have my little daughter, and seeing Christmas through her eyes means I get to live it all again.
We have been celebrating Christmas at Sam's in West London for over 20 years, and December is still my favourite month on the floor. Every day the restaurants are full of joy, buzz and celebration. The chefs and I have been working on some rather special menus this year, and we are going big once again.
Christmas by the Thames at Sam's Riverside, Hammersmith
Celebrating Christmas by the river, with Hammersmith Bridge twinkling in the background, is really something special. This is Head Chef Luke's first Christmas with us, and it seems I have found a partner in crime to celebrate the festive season with.
A few of Luke's must-order dishes this year:
- Diver-Caught Scallops, Brown Butter, Apple, Hazelnut
- Roast Duck Breast, Pumpkin, Blackberries, Cognac Jus
- Roast Venison Loin, Chestnuts, Red Cabbage, Juniper Jus
- Christmas Pudding Soufflé, Almond Crumble, Brandy Ice Cream
Whether you are looking for an excuse to catch up with friends or arranging a work Christmas party, we would love to help you celebrate. Our Private Dining Room seats up to 18 guests and must have some of the best river views in London.
BOOK CHRISTMAS AT SAM'S RIVERSIDE
Christmas parties in Brentford at Sam's Waterside
Just down the road at Sam's Waterside in Brentford, Head Chef Guilherme has put together a menu that may tempt you to head further west than you first expected.
The dishes that have got me really excited this year:
- Yellowfin Tuna Crudo, Bergamot, Orange, Fennel
- Roast Cornish Hake, Brown Shrimp, Crushed Potatoes, Parsley
- Wild Mushroom & Chestnut Wellington, Braised Cabbage
- Spiced Poached Pears, Mulled Wine, Vanilla Mascarpone
From an intimate team dinner to a party for the whole company, we'll plan the evening around you. Our semi-private area seats up to 32 guests across two long tables. Planning something bigger? Take the entire restaurant for a sit-down dinner for up to 80, or drinks and canapés for 150.
BOOK CHRISTMAS AT SAM'S WATERSIDE
Booking your Christmas party
Our Christmas menus run at both restaurants from Monday 23 November to Christmas Eve. For smaller tables, book directly online. For larger parties and private hire, our Events Manager, Rosie, would be thrilled to help you plan.
CONTACT OUR EVENTS TEAMChristmas drinks at the bar
Or you might just fancy my personal favourite at Christmas: a seat at the bar with a few well-made whisky sours, then oysters and a suitable white wine to wash them down.
Whatever is on your Christmas wish list, we will be here to look after you.
