We all love a home-cooked holiday meal, but—let’s admit it—sometimes they can be a bit of a headache. So why not let some of Edmonton’s best restaurants take care of you this holiday season? Whether it’s for a celebratory staff lunch or a long-awaited family reunion, these restaurants offer a selection of private or semi-private rooms so you maintain all the intimacy of a home-cooked meal without any of the fuss. The holiday season is stressful enough already, so treat yourself with world-class menus and top-tier service. Just always make sure to call ahead for reservations!
Guru Fine Indian Cuisine | Two locations, including downtown: 10111–104 Ave., 780-399-8210, gururestaurant.com
- Butter chicken samosas, lamb curry, chana masala—if your mouth’s watering just from hearing the names of those dishes, you’re in luck. Guru’s the perfect place to start or heighten your experience with Indian cuisine, as the restaurant prides itself in preparing some of the finest dishes in the city. The private dining suite at the downtown location can accommodate up to 20 people, while the entertaining Chef ’s Table can seat up to 14 people.
LUX Steakhouse | Commerce Place, 10150-101 St., 780-424-0400, centuryhospitality.com/lux
Among the offerings on the innovative menu of this upscale urban steakhouse are premium steaks made from Heritage Angus Beef. The private Vintage Room seats up to 30 people, and for groups of 15 or more LUX recommends one of their set group menus, which allows each guest to choose different options for starters, mains, and desserts. Groups of 12 or less can book reservations through OpenTable!
SABOR | 10220-103 St., 780-757-1114, sabor.ca
With a range of tapas like bruschetta, salt cod fritters, bacon-wrapped dates, and garlic prawns, SABOR has an ideal menu for groups to taste and share. Their semi-private room can seat 16 and is located in a converted elevator shaft just off the main dining room, with floor-to-ceiling curtains available for additional privacy, while the BODEGA Tapas Bar at SABOR can seat up to 30.
La Ronde | Chateau Lacombe Hotel, 10111 Bellamy Hill, 780-428-6611, chateaulacombe.com/eat-drink/la-ronde
A private dining room would defeat the purpose of the incredible panoramic views of the city, but La Ronde is still capable of accommodating large groups! The only revolving restaurant in the city sits on the 24th floor of Chateau Lacombe Hotel and offers Canadian classics like Alberta AAA Prime Rib, Bison Carpaccio, and a fresh seasonal Catch of the Day.
Homefire Grill | 18210–100 Ave., 780-489-8086, homefiregrill.ca
Blending traditional Canadian cuisine with distinct prairie flavours, Homefire Grill’s dishes highlight their Indigenous heritage and pair perfectly with their handcrafted cocktails. Signature dishes include Elk Lasagna, Indian Summer Salad, and bannock made from an old family recipe. Up to 36 of your own family members can fit in their private room.
Vaticano Cucina | 10310–45 Ave., 780-250-1110, vaticanoyeg.com
Seated dinners in one of Vaticano’s semi-private rooms can seat up to 25 people, though for a more casual reception-style gathering they can accommodate up to 40. On the menu are both classic and creative Italian dishes, such as Gnocchi Poutine, St. Michael pizza (with black truffle and sauteed mushrooms), and a slow-roasted pork loin.
