With the festive period fast-approaching, many restaurants are already taking their Christmas bookings.

If you and your friends want the best food, it’s wise to book before they get too busy.

So here at the Observer, we have chosen some of the best menus and deals that restaurants in Watford are offering.

Vanchino’s

St Albans Road

Watford Observer:

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This popular Italian restaurant is offering a mixture of Christmas classics and Italian favourites on its delicious seasonal menu.

Three courses cost £29.95 and you can choose from a range of dishes including fillet of turkey and Christmas pizza.

To book, call 01923 804800.

L’artista

The Parade

Watford Observer:

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L’artista is offering two set-menus – one for those not wanting to break the bank and one for people wanting to go all out this Christmas.

Customers can choose between three courses for £17.90, with dishes such as bresaola with parmesan, roast turkey and trimmings and home made Italian pudding.

Or four courses for £28.90 with options including deep-fried mixed fish, fillets of seabass with capers and white wine and Limoncello.

If either of those tickle your taste buds, call 01923 210005.

Bill’s

High Street

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Like L’artista, Bill’s has two-tiers of pricing for its Christmas menu.

For £22.95, guests can enjoy a three-course meal that can include ham hock and mustard terrine, rib eye steak with dauphinoise potatoes and hot molten chocolate pudding.

Or for £27.95, diners can feast on a range of dishes including crispy squid with garlic and lemon mayonnaise, venison and chestnut pudding and Oxford Blue cheese with marmalade – and enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival with bread and oils.

If either of those take your fancy, call 01923 229177.

Middleton’s Steakhouse and Grill

King Street

Watford Observer:

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For those who cannot be bothered cooking a Turkey this Christmas day, you can head to Middleton’s Steakhouse and Grill for a luxurious feast.

The menus is £49.95 for adults, £24.95 for children under 12 and £7.95 for children under four.

Customers can enjoy a number of dishes including lobster gratin, turkey and trimmings and traditional Christmas pudding.

To book, call 01923 517 332.

Bar Bodega

The Parade

Watford Observer:

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For those who fancy a cocktail while they dine, Bar Bodega is also offering Christmas roasts.

Prices vary dependent on the dish but customers can choose from things like halloumi and vegetable chips, topside of beef with all the trimmings and New York cheesecake.

To book, call 01923 229651.

Barracuda

The Parade

Watford Observer:

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If you're looking for a Mediterranean Christmas meal, head to Barracuda for a three-course feast for only £19.90.

Guests can choose between dishes such as Greek mezze, sea bass and Tiramisu.

To book, call 01923 814 181.

Zinco

The Parade

Watford Observer:

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Zinco, another Italian favourite, is also offering a three-course meal for £19.95.

Guests can enjoy an antipasti starter to share, followed by a choice of dishes including salmon and profiteroles.

To book, call 01923 222888.