5 OF THE BEST FESTIVE FEASTS

Does the thought of a pile of dishes have you scared to cook Christmas lunch? Sally Coates finds five places that will do the hard work for you

MERCURE GOLD COAST 64 PALM MEADOWS DR, CARRARA

Venture inland a little and celebrate Christmas Day with Mercure Resort. Complete with freshly decked halls with bells and holly, the Mercure is taking care of everything. For a family friendly event, enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch in the Masters Ballroom with all the trimmings including seasonal seafood, live entertainment and a visit from the big bearded man himself for the kids. Or, if it’s kid-free Christmas this year, head to The Restaurant for an adults only affair. To book call 5555 7762 or go to mercuregoldcoastresort.com.a

SHERATON GRAND MIRAGE 71 SEA WORLD DRIVE, MAIN BEACH

Get dressed up and spend Christmas Day in the Sheraton Grand ballroom, where you’ll be transported to a White Christmas wonderland. Sheraton’s lunch package, running from noon until 3pm, includes a grand seafood buffet as well as selected beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages. There will be roving entertainment, music and a Santa visit. Book at sheratoneventsgoldcoast.com.au

DE VITO WATERFRONT 2 BARNEY ST, SOUTHPORT

Whether you’re with your family or not, everyone will feel like they’re part of the clan at De Vito’s. Enjoy a show by the singing chefs and newlyweds David and Tarscha De Vito while feasting on a lavish lunch buffet, including salmon roulade, eggnog, caramelised baked ham, roast beef and pork, osso bucco, barramundi, roast turkey, profiteroles, Christmas pudding and more. Call 5532 8376.

INTERCON SANCTUARY COVE MANOR CIR, HOPE ISLAND

Celebrate in style in InterContinental’s ballroom. Christmas lunch is set to be an elaborate seafood spread with a chef’s carvery, antipasto bar and dessert “library”. Sparkling, local beer, wine, soft drinks and juices are included for adults, along with entertainment. Kids score face painting, unlimited soft drinks and juices, and a gift from Santa. Book at intercontinentalsanctuarycove.com

CURRUMBIN VIKINGS 741 PACIFIC PARADE, CURRUMBIN

If you’re feeling famished after an early morning of unwrapping presents, head to Vikings Surf Club where you can pile your plate high. Their breakfast buffet boasts bacon, eggs, sausages, hash browns, mushrooms, grilled tomato, fruit and freshly baked pastries, alongside some of the best beach views in the country. Download the booking form at currumbinslsc.com.au