If it’s the glitter and glamour of Christmas you’re after, there’s little that says it better than a magnificent tree. And you can toast the festive season with a glass of champagne beneath one of the capital’s most spectacular ones at The Dome (14 George Street, Edinburgh, 0131 624 8624) – just look for the famous Christmas lights on the pillars outside. For high-class sustainable and Scottish-sourced food with impeccable service, take time out at The Scottish Café & Restaurant (The Mound, Edinburgh, 0131 226 6524). And for seasonal style over in Glasgow, follow the herd towards the Bo Bar (383 Byres Road, Glasgow, 0141 341 6516) for a couple of pre-dinner drinks, before indulging in a classy meal of great Scottish meat or seafood at the next-door Bo’Vine Meats & Wines (385 Byres Road, Glasgow, 0141 341 6540). Award-winning Stravaigin (28 Gibson Street, Glasgow, 0141 334 2665) is a firm food-lovers’ favourite with its inventively prepared Scottish produce and extensive drinks list – sit back and enjoy one of the three-course festive menus.

If you’re with an office party, or even just a gathering of family or friends, power it up with one of the many Christmas packages on offer at Electric Circus (36 Market Street, Edinburgh, 0131 226 4224). Book a private suite for your crowd for cracking karaoke, cocktails and a range of food options. Or for a warm Scottish welcome, head en masse to Ghillie Dhu (2 Rutland Place, Edinburgh, 0131 222 9930), where you can tuck into a three-course meal followed by some toe-tapping ceilidh action. Also great for groups, there’s curry all round at the popular Mother India’s Café (1355 Argyle Street, Glasgow, 0141 339 9145), where the tapas-style portions make for unfussy finger food.

And who wants to slave over a hot stove on the big day itself? For a glamorous alternative, head over to the Bar Missoni (George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, 0131 220 6666), which offers three courses for £60 on 25 December, with smoked salmon, turkey and trimmings, plus hazelnut tart with amaretto ice cream on the menu. For a guaranteed festive feeling of indulgence and grandeur, treat yourself to the opulent Rhubarb Restaurant at Prestonfield House (Priestfield Road, Edinburgh, 0131 225 7800). As well Christmas Day lunch and dinner, a range of menus are on offer, including a festive champagne afternoon tea and the chance to feast in a private dining room.