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Walnut Creek Magazine

Tis’ the Season for Takeout: A Local Guide to the Best Holiday Meals and Special Dishes

Dec 21, 2020 11:10AM ● By Pam Kessler

Since the most festive season of the year finds us all staying home, why not start a new tradition and order dinner from a local restaurant? Not only will you enjoy something delicious, but you’ll also be helping the businesses we all love make it until through winter.   

We put together this list to help our friends in the restaurant business. All you have to do is set the table and place an order. Bon Appetit!

Montecatini Available for pick up December 23 and 24, Montecatini has regular menu options available, along with a family-style take-and-bake lasagna covered in Chef Paulin’s decadent creamy tomato sauce. Serve 6-8 people for $85.

Sunrise Bistro Chef Ty is dishing up a tasty turkey supper on Christmas Eve. Individual $14.99 turkey plates come with creamy mashers loaded with gravy and green beans. Place an order for pick up 12/24.

Roundup Saloon Cousins Main Lobster Truck is coming to the East Bay's favorite dive bar on Christmas Eve. Grab some Chardonnay and lobster sandwiches to-go for a festive night at home.

Capullo Cocina Mexicana Order a family dinner for a flavorful spread of grilled shrimp, chicken, chorizo, guacamole, tortillas, and a pitcher of margaritas. $140, pick it up on December 24.

La Sen Bistro Choose from lobster bisque, bouillabaisse, and decadent chocolate cake on the $65 (per person) three-course pre-fixe menu at this charming French restaurant. Call or email your order by 12/24.

54 Mint Take and bake trays include eggplant parmesan and lasagne bolognese ($60 serves 4-6 or $120 serves 8-12) Start with an antipasti platter and finish it off with chocolate ganache. Order by 5 pm on 12/21 for pick up on 12/24.

Benvenuti A la carte family-style offerings from this beloved Italian bistro include meatballs, cheese gnocchi, and chicken piccata. Dishes serves 4-5 for $48 to $150 per entree. Order by 12/21. 

Torsap Thai Ahi tuna bites, satay, papaya salad, short ribs, garlic prawns, and pumpkin curry grace the beautiful four-person $89 to-go trays.  Open all day every day for takeout and delivery.

Metro This Lafayette mainstay has special additions to its Christmas Eve menu including lobster bisque, braised short ribs, and miso-glazed black cod. Prices vary; available for curbside pickup.

Buttercup Diner Prime rib family-style feast with all the fixings: horseradish sauce, garlic mashed potatoes, mixed veggies, Caesar salad, plus a chocolate cream pie. Serves 4-6 people for $150, Order in advance for pick up Christmas Eve.

The Greenery This Diablo Hills Golf Course eatery has mastered the art of carryout. Christmas dinner boxes include glazed ham, cheddar garlic mashers, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potato pie. Half box $40, full box $80. Preorder by phone by 12/22 for pick up on 12/24.

The Hideout A family-style prime rib dinner for four comes with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, and Brussel sprouts. 

Rocco's North Walnut Creek’s popular pizzeria is dishing up some serious family-style meal deals. Meat or vegetarian lasagna serves 10 for $37.95; add six cannoli to your order for $20. Available anytime through Christmas Eve.

Lokanta Enjoy a Mediterranean family meal with your favorite protein, rice, veggies, tzatziki, and baklava for only $49. Order online for delivery or carry it out.

Le Gateau Elegant Walnut Creek’s elegant bakery specializes in cakes for all seasons. Add a Buche de Noel chocolate ganache to your holiday table.


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