Raclette, Detroit markets and festive Lebanese treats: our editors' foodie favourites this Christmas

What we've been eating, drinking and discovering in the world of food this Christmas

By National Geographic Traveller Food
Published 8 Apr 2019, 23:39 BST, Updated 15 Jul 2021, 15:50 BST

I've been counting down with…
The Big Chilli Advent Calendar, which includes 25 different chillies and 20 recipes, including a vegan option for every chilli. What's not to like? From £29.95. Maria Pieri, editorial director

I've been dropping hints for…
A coffee machine — particularly now the pods are far more recyclable. Cru Kafe pods, for example, can be put straight in the household recycling — and the Organic Dark Roast variety is particularly moreish. Glen Mutel, editor

I've been indulging in…
Oozing, melted cheese from the Alpine artisans, Raclette Brothers. Find them at their latest London venue, Skylight at Tobacco Dock. This winter wonderland is home to Europe's only rooftop ice rink, with cosy igloos and scintillating city views thrown in. Josephine Price, online editor.

I'll be shopping at…
Detroit's Eastern Market on 23 December to pick up locally sourced foods and gifts for the holiday season. There might even be a bit of carolling, too. Becky Redman, art editor.

I'll be feasting at…
Carousel. The London restaurant usually hosts guest chefs, but until 20 December its head chef and co-founder Ollie Templeton and his team will be dishing up a festive 'Christmas by Carousel' menu. Blistered sprout tops with scallop XO? Yes please. Nicola Trup, deputy editor

I've been getting into the spirit with…
A traditional afternoon tea at One Aldwych Hotel with a Christmas twist. Think turkey and cranberry finger sandwiches, mulled wine jelly with vanilla custard, and mince pie scones with eggnog curd. Sit on the mezzanine level and admire the sparkling Christmas tree (actually made of snow globes) down in the lobby bar. Available until 31 December. £46 per person, including free refills. Lauren Gamp, designer

Top 3: Festive hampers

The Prestige, The Lebanese Bakery
This bespoke gourmet hamper puts a festive spin on Lebanese feasting. It includes pomegranate molasses, sumac, zatar, olive oil, whole figs, rose petals, mulberry jam, apple cider vinegar, and creme of dates with almonds. Delicious. £75.

Festive Tea Hamper, Melrose & Morgan
The perfect treat on a cold winter's day, with bite-size stollen, mince pies and gingerbread, plus a giant chocolate coin. Wash everything down with a warming cup of the English breakfast tea that comes with it. £35.

The Chocolate Lover's Hamper, Cocoa Runners
Chocoholics rejoice — this festive box is brimming with artisan chocolate goodies, including white, milk and dark chocolates from across the globe, handcrafted bars and cocoa tea. £59.

Small Savoury Festive Hamper, Diforti
A family-run business, Diforti main aim is to bring high-quality, traditional Italian produce to the UK market. This delectable hamper includes a tin of panettone, truffle oil, Sicilian pesto, nduja spread and salamino toscano. £49.99. Farida Zeynalova, assistant editor

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