Local restaurants serving up Christmas Day dinner

Back in the day, the only restaurant open on Christmas Day was the Waffle House (and it still is if you prefer your holiday meal scattered, smothered and covered), but Intown restaurants also know that many people would rather enjoy more time with friends and family and less time in the kitchen.

Here are a few suggestions for your Christmas Day meal. Find more at OpenTable. com. Reservations are recommended.

Astor Court at The St. Regis

Buckhead

A brunch buffet will be served on Christmas Day. Be sure to get a West Paces Bloody Mary to wash it down. 88 West Paces Ferry Road. stregisatlanta. com/Astor-Court

Cowtippers

Midtown

Funky, fun and LGBT-friendly, Cowtippers will be serving up a traditional holiday feast with all the fixings. 1600 Piedmont Road. cowtippersatlanta.com

Legal Sea Foods

Downtown

Trade in that turkey and ham for a lobster and shrimp feast on Christmas Day. 275 Baker St. legalseafoods.com

The Melting Pot

Midtown

If it’s fondue you seek then check out The Melting Pot on Christmas Eve and Day as the staff serves up seasonally-inspired fondues in addition to its regular menu. 754 Peachtree St. meltingpot.com

Park 75 Midtown

Sample the holiday brunch buffet featuring live culinary stations, a variety of homemade desserts, and even a visit from Santa at the Four Seasons. Seatings are 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. upon availability. 75 14th St. fourseasons.com

Poor Calvin’s

Midtown

Try some Thai fusion for your Christmas dinner. 510 Piedmont Ave. poorcalvins.com

Rosa Mexicano

Atlantic Station

Chips, salsa, tacos and margaritas are a spicy alternative to the usual holiday dinner. 245 18th St. rosamexicano.com

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Downtown and Midtown

Both locations are open Christmas Day serving up their classic sizzling steaks. 267 Marietta St. and 3285 Peachtree Road. ruthschris.net