In true Neiman Marcus style, the luxury department store offers breakfast with Santa on two Saturdays in December that sells out quickly every year. It’s one of my favorite San Diego holiday events.
Doors open earlier than normal, a bit prior to 8:30 a.m., for breakfast guests only. It’s fun to walk in before anyone else can. The breakfast happens at the Zodiac restaurant on the third floor by housewares which later creates the perfect setting for some of the most beautiful pictures with Santa that you’ll ever have.
Carolers greet guests inside the restaurant which is kitted out in festive decor. Last year, kids were able to select reindeer ears headbands and a few other goodies off of a central table before breakfast. The event is kicked off with mimosas, sparkling wine, coffee or whatever you’d like. Juice, hot chocolate and other drinks are available for the kids.
Next comes a platter of gourmet pastries to nosh on that my daughter absolutely loves. Finally, a plated breakfast with a little something for everyone is served to each person. You may specify dietary restrictions at the time of your reservation. It is a lot of very delicious food and this picture doesn’t do it justice. Right as I took this photo, my daughter spilled her hot chocolate and I forgot to take a better one!
Santa and Mrs. Claus make an appearance and diligently stop at each table (multiple times in our case) for photos taken by you and some fun conversations with the kids.
After breakfast, it’s time to head over to the Christmas decor area for a professional photograph with Santa. A printed copy on the spot is included in the price of breakfast and the photographer will email you a link should you like to purchase more. I’m telling you, these are our favorite Christmas photos.
Everything, except gratuity, is included in the breakfast price of $45 for adults and $35 for kids. I personally think it’s great value for what you get! The event wraps up around 10:00 a.m. when the rest of the mall opens leaving plenty of time to tackle some holiday shopping without fighting for parking because you’ll have already scored an awesome spot.
As of this writing, there is a waitlist for breakfast on December 7 and 14, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. They just opened a second seating on December 14, 2019 at 10:30 am which still has space. Make your reservations now by calling the Zodiac Restaurant at 619-692-9100 x 4450.
Katie Dillon
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