664054 Mon Nov 02 07:07:03 -0800 2009 5 58 Italy 0 5148649 We will be in Rome for Christmas week and would like to have a firm reservation for lunch for Christmas Eve in hand when we get there. We are forfeiting dinner since we are attending midnight mass at the Vatican. (Midnight mass is actually starting at 10 pm this year; lining up to get in around 7 pm, therefore dinner is out.) We are four adults who love food and are always in search of a stellar dining experience. Obviously, we would love to have an amazing lunch for Christmas Eve. Tourist traps, menus in 5 languages, over-rated places, etc., are out. Cost is not an issue. We are looking for an authentic, tasty and memorable meal. Let the suggestions begin! Thanks so much. Mon Nov 02 07:07:03 -0800 2009 1121027 ttoommyy 1 5148696 Christmas Eve is a Thursday, so it should not be such a problem finding a lunch reservation. Why not simply reach out to one of the places you are otherwise considering for a late-ish lunch? Mon Nov 02 07:29:22 -0800 2009 5148649 11130 jen kalb 2 5148736 Thanks for the suggestion Jen; we've thought of that also. I was just hoping to see what places others might suggest. Mon Nov 02 07:40:31 -0800 2009 5148696 1121027 ttoommyy 3 5150215 Lunch at the de Russie Hotel would be our choice if money is no object. Mon Nov 02 14:30:58 -0800 2009 5148736 102274 dlgc 4 5151843 I must admit I'd not heard of the Hotel de Russie or the affiliated restaurant before your post. A quick internet search brings up many favorable reviews. I'll add it to the list of possibilities. Thanks so much. Tue Nov 03 08:13:57 -0800 2009 5150215 1121027 ttoommyy 5 5153508 We have stayed at the hotel many times and have found the food to be quite good and the service spot on. I think for a holiday dinner it is the perfect place. Tue Nov 03 16:30:47 -0800 2009 5151843 102274 dlgc