Christmas Day at The Bull Run is shaping up to be a feast worth clearing every plan for.
Known for its classic charm, hearty portions and polished service, this iconic Johannesburg restaurant is pulling out all the festive stops with a Christmas menu that feels like a warm hug wrapped in ribbons, rosemary and perfectly roasted goodness.
Running from 12:00 PM to 22:30 PM, The Bull Run’s festive offering gives diners three ways to celebrate: a lavish Harvest Table, a refined 3-Course Festive Set Menu, or all the favourites from the beloved à la carte menu. It’s Christmas, after all — choice is part of the joy.
Guests can start by exploring the Harvest Table, a spread so generous it could easily be mistaken for Santa’s pantry. There’s artisan bread with whipped feta and herbed dips, smoked aubergine baba ghanoush, roasted pepper hummus, salads, cheeses, charcuterie, seasonal fruit and every colourful bowl that belongs at a proper Christmas celebration. It’s the kind of table where no one needs to pretend they’re “just having a small plate”. Go back. Everyone else is.
Then comes the first of the three set-menu courses — starters that set the tone for indulgence. Diners can choose between the Smoked Duck Salad with caramelised pears and blue cheese, the velvet-rich Lobster & Prawn Bisque, or the bright and festive Christmas Caprese topped with crunchy pine nuts. Already, the decision-making is deliciously difficult.
For mains, The Bull Run leans into its culinary strengths. Choices include:
- Whole Prime Rib Roast Slice with garlic butter, truffle mash and honey-glazed carrots.
- Grilled Line Fish dressed in lemon herb butter with vibrant greens.
- Lemon Thyme Chicken Supreme stuffed with mushrooms and ricotta over silky cauliflower purée.
- Orzo Puttanesca, a Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian dream full of olives, capers and rich tomato.
Each dish is comforting, seasonal and deeply satisfying — exactly what a Christmas plate should be.
And just when guests think they’ve reached their limit, dessert arrives to test their resolve. From the decadent Chocolate & Amarula Mousse, to the colourful Bull Run Rainbow Cheesecake, to the warm Spiced Apple Crumble with vanilla ice cream, it’s a sweet ending that guarantees happy sighs all around.
With its refined atmosphere, festive décor and menus built for long, joyful lunches, The Bull Run transforms Christmas Day into an effortless celebration of good food, great company and holiday spirit. Bookings are essential via thebullrun.co.za or 011 884 1400.



