Sometimes the best gift you can receive (or even treat yourself to) is to not have to cook during the holidays, so why not take advantage of the restaurants that are staying open? From Blue Water Bistro in Leschi to Ben Paris downtown and Maximilien in Pike Place Market, there are plenty of options on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both. Reservations are highly advised as many locations will book up.

There’s more Seattle food news to unwrap this way.

Seattle Convention Center sets a new precedent

For many conference attendees, nibbling food that doesn’t fit their preferences has long been just part of business, but that’s not the case at the Seattle Convention Center. By hiring the country’s first dedicated, in-house dietary chef earlier this year, the venue did its part to push the industry standard, recognizing that “an estimated 4% of Americans identify as vegetarian, and up to 30% follow a gluten-free diet.” Hear how Amelia Warfel approaches inclusive dining and what goes into planning these meals before guests even arrive.

The Copine clock is ticking

Fine dining in Seattle took another hit with the announced closure of Copine, which will not renew its lease when it ends next May. Ballard’s James Beard nominee has been a standout since 2016, when it came onto the scene with prix fixe menus showcasing contemporary American cuisine imbued with French influences. In the remaining months, expect the bar menu to go away and a more focused culinary experience, with more tableside elements and fewer accommodations for dietary restrictions. “I want to focus the last five months on cooking stuff that we really want to cook,” co-owner Shaun McCrain told Eater.

Pre-game grub

Dining options aren’t lacking if you’re heading to or from Climate Pledge Arena, but when time is of the essence—either you have a concert to catch or really just want to get home afterward—it’s key to have a go-to restaurant that’s easy and appetizing. Uptown China fits that bill, with everything you’d expect: kung pao chicken, Mongolian beef, eggflower soup, all cooked with aplomb. See what other dishes you can’t miss.

Ring in the new year with a lamb roast

Hamdi, known for its wood-fired Turkish and Anatolian cuisine, wants to welcome you to its table for a special celebration, bidding farewell to 2025 and hello to 2026. For $170 a person, guests can join a whole lamb dinner, accompanied by a spread of mezze dishes as well as a housemade dessert. Reservations are non-refundable, but can be transferred in case something comes up.

Glitz and glam

A taste of Old Hollywood entices you to live it up on New Year’s Eve at W Bellevue, with its “CINEMA: A New Year’s Eve Celebration” event. Strut down the red carpet for a night of oysters and caviar, graze on appetizers as they are passed around, dance to the live DJ, and as midnight approaches, say cheers with mini Moët bottles and Ketel One cocktails. Tickets are $125 and VIP table options are available.