Pub manager shares final day Brits will be able to book Christmas dinner this year
Pub manager and industry expert Luke Slater is warning Brits to book their Christmas plans early to avoid disappointment, with the second Wednesday of December likely being their ultimate cut-off point. Speaking to SumUp, the expert explained just why restaurants are seemingly pushing their final booking days earlier each year.
The expert predicted the final day you’ll be able to book your last minute Christmas plate is December 11th. He did note that people looking to book smaller tables might have a bit more leeway, however, the pub manager also warned that each venue has their own deadline with some stopping Christmas bookings as early as December 2nd.
Luke shared: “The reason behind this decision is so that all deposits and pre-orders ready for Christmas Day lunch are acquired to the kitchen in time. This will vary for different businesses, but the general idea is the earlier we can get things booked the better.”
For his own establishment, the pub manager explained that if there is a particularly high number of last-minute inquiries and bookings they may extend their cut-off point even past December 11th. But even this extension won’t go beyond Wednesday, December 18th. He explained: “This is because of wholesale Christmas close-downs.”
When it comes to future holidays, Luke advised Brits to actually start booking their Christmas tables around August, when Christmas Day lunch bookings tend to open. He encouraged: “As soon as restaurants start to launch their Christmas Day Lunch I would advise making that call straight away to avoid disappointment.
“Also, it's good to shop around and find your best deal so that you and your family can enjoy your Christmas Day lunch together in an amazing atmosphere. Most people will know the restaurant before they book I assume, but if it’s a new location, just make sure they cater to your needs e.g. are they more family orientated or fine dining.”