As the most magical time of the year approaches, one thing is on everyone’s mind – the mouthwatering delight of a traditional Christmas dinner. We’re talking about those classic, time-honored dishes that make your taste buds dance merry.

Here in Columbus, Ohio, we’ve scoured the city to find the absolute best in traditional Christmas fare. From savory main courses to delightful sides and irresistible desserts, we’ve got the lowdown on where to find Christmas dinner in Columbus, Ohio, that will make your festival unforgettable.

Let’s set on a delightful journey of flavors and festivities. Get ready to indulge in some classics that will have you saying, “Ho, ho, ho, let’s eat!”

Main Dishes

Mom’s Scalloped Potatoes

The aroma of Mom’s Scalloped Potatoes wafting through the air is a sensory delight. This timeless classic showcases the marriage of potatoes and onions baked in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a nostalgic dish beloved for its comforting simplicity.

Experts say the key is to heat the milk before it mingles with the other ingredients. Heating milk elevates the dish to a level of creamy perfection, taking you down memory lane with each savory bite.

Green Bean Casserole

While the main course often takes center stage, remember the classic side dishes that complete the feast. The Green Bean Casserole, a beloved Christmas side dish, offers a delightful twist on tradition.

Crowned with French fried onions and Cheddar cheese, it’s a savory symphony that harmonizes perfectly with your holiday feast.

Roast Turkey and Gravy

Ah, the jewel of the Christmas dinner in Columbus, Ohio – the Roast Turkey. The expert chef’s secret tip is to spread butter beneath the turkey’s skin. This extra step ensures a succulent, flavorful result, setting the stage for a perfect holiday centerpiece. Season the butter to your heart’s content, and watch your turkey become a work of art.

Christmas Prime Rib

The Christmas Prime Rib is a showstopper for those who crave a decadent, meaty main course. This boneless prime rib roast, adorned with horseradish and mustard, is seasoned to perfection and roasted to mouthwatering excellence. It’s no wonder many hail it as the best Christmas meat dish they’ve ever had.

Traditional Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire puddings hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the roots of holiday cuisine. When cooked in a pan of fat beneath a roasting beef, they result in a delicious, smoky treat. While modern ovens may limit our approach, using real rendered beef fat can bring us close to the original Yorkshire pudding experience.

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington offers an equally impressive main dish if a prime rib is too much. This delight involves individual filets and mushrooms expertly folded into a puff pastry, creating a savory masterpiece that’s as manageable as delectable.

Roast Duck with Chestnut Stuffing

Duck is the traditional Christmas main course in many parts of the world, and Germany is no exception. To achieve the perfect roasted duck, marinate it for at least 12 hours before roasting. Pair it with broccoli and duchess potatoes and consider using the stuffing for other poultry.

Side Dishes

Christmas Pomegranate Salad

A splash of color and a burst of flavor – that’s what Christmas Pomegranate Salad brings to your table. Versatile and customizable, this salad offers a vibrant touch to your holiday feast. With various nuts and cheese options, it’s a dish that you can tailor to your preferences.

Christmas Cranberry Salad

No Christmas dinner is complete without a medley of salads, and the Christmas Cranberry Salad shines bright on the holiday table. It’s visually appealing and a delightful addition to your meal. The preference between frozen and chilled versions is a matter of personal taste, but the lovely visual appeal is universal.

Candied Sweet Potatoes

A recipe for Candied Sweet Potatoes that’s both easy and exceptionally delicious is a Christmas miracle in itself—the secret lies in the preparation. This dish receives rave reviews at holiday gatherings.

Deluxe Garlic Green Beans

When it comes to green beans, there’s one recipe that can convert even the staunchest veggie-hater. These Deluxe Garlic Green Beans are quick to prepare and utterly delicious. Their universal appeal is the secret to their success, making them a hit at every holiday gathering.

Chef John’s Roast Christmas Goose

Roast goose is a storybook Christmas centerpiece, and Chef John’s recipe simplifies the process by starting with a pre-cooked smoked bird. The result is a rich, moist, and flavorful dish with a crispy skin that will have your guests singing carols of delight.

Holiday Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a ubiquitous Christmas condiment, and this Holiday Cranberry Sauce recipe takes it to new heights. A burst of flavors that even non-cranberry fans will appreciate, it’s easy to prepare and destined to become a holiday staple.

Where to Find Traditional Christmas Dishes in Columbus

Now that your taste buds are tingling, you might wonder where to find these traditional Christmas dishes in Columbus. Let’s explore the best restaurants in Columbus, Ohio, offering mouthwatering options for your holiday dining.

Veritas

Veritas’ holiday menu is nothing short of impressive, offering a choice of Beef Wellington, Cedar Plank Salmon, or Lobster Thermidor. Each meal has a gem lettuce salad, braised mushrooms, creamed spinach, and truffle risotto. If you’re a fan of fine beverages, they also offer inventive holiday-themed cocktails and sommelier-curated wines. All you have to do is swing by to pick up your holiday treat.

The Whitney House

If you’re looking for a cozy and fancier twist to your home-cooked Christmas dinner in Columbus, Ohio, The Whitney House has you covered. They offer a mix-and-match menu for 4-6 people and a smaller ‘dinner for two’ option.

Their entrees include prime rib, oven-roasted turkey with gravy, sliced glazed ham, and a delectable chicken pot pie. Sides range from Brussels sprouts to garlic chive mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, and challah rolls with apricot jam and herb butter. But that’s not all – their menu includes starters, desserts, wine, cocktails, and even a “morning of” breakfast menu. You can pick up your order and enjoy it!

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing

At Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, they’re roasting lemon and herb-seasoned chickens this Christmas Eve, and the menu has a variety of delightful sides and cookies. The beauty is that you can customize your order depending on the crowd size.

They’ve covered the sides from Caesar salad to sourdough batard, mashed potatoes, green beans, and rice pilaf. You should check out their cookie options: shortbread, gingerbread, triple chocolate chip, and snickerdoodle. They also offer cocktails, wines, and, of course, a wide selection of beers. Everything is available for pick-up.

G Michael’s

G Michael’s, a beloved spot for special occasions, offers a creative array of entrees on its Christmas Eve menu. You can choose from a seafood cioppino, veal and beef meatloaf with mashed potatoes, or a braised New Zealand lamb shank.

Each option is a masterpiece in itself, and they come with sides and sauces that will make your taste buds dance. The take-and-bake/heat entrees can serve 2 to 6 people, depending on your selection. You can pick them up on Dec 23rd or 24th and treat your guests to an unforgettable meal.

Tommy’s Diner

With over 30 years of experience in serving delicious power breakfasts and gyros, Tommy’s Diner offers a roasted turkey “dinner” on their lunch menu, and it’s perfect for the holiday season. They also have a family-style takeout meal for 6 to 8 people, which includes stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn or peas, rolls, and pie. If turkey isn’t your thing, you can opt for glazed ham. It’s a convenient and delicious option for those who want a mouthwatering Christmas Eve dinner in Columbus, Ohio, without all the cooking.

Host a Christmas Dinner with the Help of CookinGenie Personal Chef

If you prefer a hassle-free Christmas dinner at home, consider the services of CookinGenie. The Genies are ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary wonderland. Let them prepare the meal while you savor the joyous moments with your loved ones.

Tips for Hosting a Christmas Dinner at Home

• Plan Ahead: Start planning your Christmas dinner early, from the menu to the decor. This way, you can tackle tasks individually and reduce last-minute stress.
• Decorate Thoughtfully: Create a warm and festive atmosphere with decorations, lighting, and music that set the mood for a memorable evening.
• Accommodate Dietary Restrictions: Consider your guests’ dietary preferences and restrictions when planning your menu. Offering options for everyone ensures everyone enjoys the meal.
• Set the Table: Pay attention to table settings and presentation, as a beautifully laid-out table enhances the dining experience.
• Enjoy the Moment: Relax and enjoy the moment with your loved ones. After all, Christmas is about sharing love, laughter, and a delicious meal.

Conclusion

In Columbus, a traditional Christmas dinner isn’t just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition, a tapestry of flavors that brings families and friends together. With these classic dishes and expert tips, your Christmas dinner will be a resounding success. May your Christmas feast celebrate togetherness, love, and culinary delight.