As the final week of the year dawns, Pune is embracing a more intimate and relaxed way to celebrate Christmas. The city's dining scene is witnessing a distinct move away from grand spectacles towards warm, social gatherings centred around food. The Christmas brunch has firmly established itself as the preferred ritual, offering a leisurely canvas for conversations and culinary indulgence that stretches comfortably into the afternoon.
Rooted in Tradition: A Taste of Heritage Brunches
For many establishments, the essence of Christmas lies in preserving time-honoured flavours. Doolally in Koregaon Park is hosting 'A Taste of Tradition' on December 25, drawing deeply from Anglo-Indian, Goan, East Indian, and Mangalorean culinary roots. "Christmas food at Doolally is about preserving flavours from home kitchens," explains Yukti Aware, Community Manager.
The menu is a festive homage, featuring classics like roast chicken with stuffing, smoked leg ham, and pork vindaloo. It proudly showcases orthodox preparations such as the boldly spiced Goan cafreal chicken and mutton xacuti. The nostalgic journey continues with desserts like Christmas pudding and kuswar sweets sourced from Mumbai's old Catholic neighbourhoods. To drink, there's fresh eggnog, hot mulled wine (Glühwein), and a selection of 12 brews and ciders on tap. "It's meant to be unhurried and social—a brunch where conversations last as long as the food," Aware adds.
Contemporary Celebrations: Music, Cocktails & Shared Plates
Other venues are framing the festive day with a more modern, vibrant energy. Cobbler & Crew is centring its December 25 X-Mas Brunch around festive cocktails, shared plates, and live music. A spokesperson notes that Christmas is about slowing down with friends at the table. The live performance by Sunny Side Up, blending rock, funk, and pop, is designed to transform the brunch into a laid-back celebration that lingers.
Similarly, Kyma at Kopa Mall is opting for a curated winter-themed specials menu over a traditional buffet, aiming for a festive yet relaxed atmosphere. "We wanted a place where people can celebrate without formality," says a manager from Kyma.
Family Feasts & Expansive Spreads
For larger family gatherings and groups seeking variety, hotels are rolling out generous festive spreads. The Courtyard by Marriott in Hinjewadi is hosting a brunch at MoMo Café focused on classic holiday flavours. "Food becomes the centre of togetherness on Christmas," a hotel representative states, highlighting live counters, festive roasts, and an elaborate dessert selection.
E-Square The Fern is also embracing abundance with a brunch offering Indian, Western, and Pan-Asian cuisines alongside festive desserts, catering to guests who wish to spend time rather than rush through their meal.
Adding to the options, Little Italy has curated a special Christmas dine-in meal available from December 25 to January 4 for both lunch and dinner. The offering includes an appetiser, a choice of signature pizzas and pastas, a Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake, and beverages for two—with options ranging from non-alcoholic spirits to mocktails. Optional red wine adds a celebratory touch. A manager shares, "This menu is designed to feel generous, familiar, and joyful—just the way the season should be."
In Pune, the Christmas brunch narrative has clearly evolved. It is no longer defined by sheer grandeur but by the warmth of shared tables, the comfort of familiar and traditional flavours, and the simple luxury of unhurried hours. Across the city, from taprooms to cafes, the celebration quietly places good food and genuine connection at the centre stage.
