A Spirited Nutcracker Christmas at Bakalis 2026

A Spirited Nutcracker Christmas at Bakalis brings a Greek twist to Christmas Day in Dubai, with a long family-style lunch at Bakalis Greek Grill Taverna on Palm Jumeirah on Friday 25 December 2026. Running from 1pm to 4pm at Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, the afternoon is built around what the restaurant calls Zorba’s Christmas Grill, where fire becomes the centrepiece of the celebration.

Zorba’s Christmas Grill

Instead of the usual roast turkey and trimmings, Bakalis celebrates Christmas the Greek way. The kitchen sets out a generous sharing feast designed to be passed around the table, much as it would be at a family gathering in Greece. The highlight is a whole wood-fired lamb, grilled and carved live in front of guests, which turns the meal into something of a show in its own right.

Around the lamb, the spread covers the staples of a Greek taverna table:

• Mezze to open the meal and share across the table
• Fresh seafood, a natural fit for a beachfront setting
• Seasonal vegetables to balance the richer dishes
• Grill favourites from the taverna’s open fire

The family-style format means nobody is stuck with a single plated main, and it suits groups who like to try a little of everything. If anyone at your table has allergies or dietary requirements, mention them when booking so the team can plan ahead.

Bouzouki music by the beach

Traditional bouzouki music sets the rhythm of the afternoon, giving the lunch the feel of a Greek celebration rather than a hotel buffet. Combined with the beachfront setting on the Palm’s West Crescent, it is a soulful, sunny alternative for anyone who has spent past Christmases indoors, and a good conversation starter for visiting relatives who have never experienced a Mediterranean-style holiday meal.

The Nutcracker name sets a festive tone, but the experience itself is rooted in Greek hospitality: sharing platters placed in the middle of the table and live music that encourages guests to linger. It is a lunch that rewards a slow pace, so plan to settle in for the full three hours rather than treating it as a quick stop between other Christmas plans. For couples or friends spending the holiday away from family, the shared dishes and lively soundtrack make it feel like a proper gathering even when your own group is small.

Drinks and age policy

Tickets include the lunch and one of three drinks packages:

• Soft: soft drinks, juices and festive mocktails
• House: a Greek house selection
• Premium: a premium Greek selection

The House and Premium packages are for guests aged 21 and over with valid ID. Children aged five and under dine free, while children aged six to twelve need a Kids ticket, and proof of age may be requested. That makes it easy to bring the whole family, from toddlers to grandparents, and choose the right package for each person.

Dress code and getting there

The dress code is smart casual or festive chic, so think relaxed resort wear with a festive touch rather than black tie. Bakalis is inside Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah. Drive onto the Crescent and follow it to the West Crescent, or take a taxi or ride-hailing car to the resort entrance. If you prefer public transport, the Metro, Dubai Tram and Palm Monorail will get you most of the way, with a short taxi ride to finish. Transport is not included.

Before you book

Table reservations are recommended, and tickets cannot be cancelled or changed once booked, so confirm your group’s plans first.

The same resort is also hosting the family-focused UBK Christmas Day Lunch with a visit from Santa, and The Grand Finale Gala at Fluid on New Year’s Eve. For more festive dining, browse our dinner and brunch guide, explore things to do in Dubai, or see our things to do in December round-up for the rest of the season.