I love the way restaurants decorate for Christmas in New York City. Already eclectic and creative businesses add a bit of romance by stringing up wreaths, garlands lights and ornaments.
The warm tones and lighting create the perfect refuge from otherwise cold and gray winters in NYC. And you’d be surprise how quickly you lose track of time sipping on holiday cocktails while hanging with friends.
But with so many sensational places to eat in this big city it can be hard to know what warrants a visit, especially if you’re only here for a short amount of time. That’s why I, a NY local spent the time creating this list of my personal favorites.
I hope you find this list of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City helpful, so without further ado let’s get jolly!
Back by (popular) demand: The long-awaited custom-made NYC Christmas itineraries are back this year!
We’re opening up 10 slots for customized NYC itineraries for those visiting NYC during the Christmas season. We sold out last year, but wanted to keep the quantity small this year as well because the itineraries are a labor of love.
Each itinerary is thoughtfully-curated and personally made by founder of New York Simply, Annie. As such, we have to limit the number of slots available (again). Sorry, but we’re a small team! Check out this page for more info.
Best Christmas Themed Restaurants in New York City
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
I’m probably not the first to tell you that New Yorkers never do anything halfway and the remarkable decorations during the holidays in NYC are no exception.
Case in point: Lillie’s Victorian Establishment. This easy-going and ornate Victorian-era restaurant is completely decked out as one of the best decorated Christmas restaurants in New York City.
Think shiny garlands, life-sized nutcrackers and a plethora of decorated Christmas trees.
As for food, expect to find everything from classic pub favorites like cheeseburgers and chicken wings to more refined dishes like ceviche and tartar.
Address: 249 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019 & 13 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003
Rolf’s
As much as it pains me to say this, Rolf’s is one of the best decorated Christmas restaurants in New York City. The reason I’m reluctant to mention it is because it feels like a bit of a tourist trap.
The food is okay, not bad but not great which is super unfortunate because for the prices they charge ($30+ a dish) I’m expecting a delicious dinner. The reason they can get away with charging this much is because the clients roll in and pay it anyways, just to see the decorations.
Another reason I don’t recommend Rolf’s is because reservations will cost you nothing short of your first born child. Reservations aren’t available online, you have to call (and it can be difficult to get someone on the other line).
The reason I did include it as one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City is solely due to the decorations. If you visit, expect to take a lot of photos but that could be the highlight of the meal.
Address: 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010
Balthazar
Balthazar is one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City, and during Christmas it becomes even more so.
The interior of the Parisian brasserie is adorned with garlands and twinkling lights making it the perfect romantic brunch spot. Add in the warm tones and red-leather booths and you have scene straight out of a movie!
Ever since Keith McNally opened the restaurant in 1997 the food has been to die for. The eggs-benedict with smoked salmon is the best I’ve ever had and I could have the french onion soup everyday for a month and not get tired of it.
If you can’t get in for brunch, I learned a trick – visit the bakery next door! They make the BEST chocolate donuts I’ve ever had – perfectly dense and chocolatey. Oh, and the chai latte from this joint can’t be missed.
Address: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Tavern On The Green
Tavern On The Green is a special place because it was designed into Central Park during its construction. In the original design it was meant to house the 700 sheep that grazed at nearby Sheep Meadow.
Robert Moses decided to turn the sheep-fold into a restaurant in 1934 and the rest is history. The restaurant has become one of the most iconic in New York City, being featured in movies and frequented by celebrities.
Tavern On The Green’s popularity is well deserved. For starters, the restaurant is stunning (you’d never guess it used to be the home of sheep). Even more so during the holidays, when it’s one of the most beautiful Christmas themed restaurants in New York City.
The courtyard seating has lights strung above meeting at an illuminated Christmas tree in the middle. Being sandwiched between the city’s skyline and Central Park, consider me a happy camper!
Starting in November Tavern On The Green will be hosting a holiday brunch that consists of a 3 course meal priced at $95 for adults. Consider this one of the Christmas restaurants in New York City you won’t want to miss.
Address: W 67th St, New York, NY 10023
Serra By Birrerria
Serra By Birreria is located on the rooftop of Eataly in the Flatiron District, and it’s Italian name roughly translates to greenhouse brewery. The seasonal restaurant serves delicious Italian food and (very) well crafted cocktails.
With every changing season, the restaurant manages to outdo the previous decor. In the winter Serra by Birreria transforms into Serra Alpina, meant to make guests feel like they’re in a cabin in the Italian mountains.
The snow dusted branches that blanket the ceiling make this one of the most charming Christmas restaurants in New York City. Even though it’s on a rooftop the restaurant is enclosed and well heated, keeping it as cozy as can be.
Address: 200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010 (follow signs to the elevator, take it to the top floor)
Winter Wonderland at Watermark
The perk of dining at the Winter Wonderland on Pier 15 is that you can enjoy waterfront views of Manhattan and Brooklyn without getting hypothermia. (If you’ve ever stood by the East River in the winter you know it takes a week to thaw out).
Thanks to its enclosed glasshouses the Winter Wonderland has become one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City. It’s like being in a clear igloo, but instead of ice fishing you’re eating smores and drinking spiked cocoa and cider.
There’s Christmas trees and lights adding to the holiday vibe, but it doesn’t stop there. You can order drinks that come in Christmas ornaments and there’s a projector playing Hallmark movies outside.
From romantic date night to a place to just meet with friends for cozy cocktails, the Winter Wonderland is one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City. If you plan on visiting I strongly encourage reservations so you get seated immediately and don’t have to wait outside in the cold for a table.
Address: 78 South St Pier 15, New York, NY 10038
Rosemary’s
Named after the owner’s mother, Rosemary’s aims to make dishes with the same love a home-cooked meal has. Heck, the restaurant even has its own rooftop vegetable garden that helps provide the produce they serve their guests.
Even better, Rosemary’s is one of my favorite Christmas decorated restaurants in New York City. The joint is cute as is, but with wreath hanging on the windows and lights covering the ceiling it becomes as charming as can be.
In terms of drinks, the cocktail menu never fails to impress, especially the Garden Martini. The freshness was unmistakable — did I just accidentally order a glass of (spiked) pressed cucumber juice?
Address: 18 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Oscar Wilde
Quick history lesson: Oscar Wilde was an Irish poet and one of the most popular playwrights in the late 19th century best known for his wit and flamboyance.
Unfortunately, Wilde’s reputation was tarnished after falling in love with a man. In the Victorian era being gay was not only frowned upon, but a crime. So much so that Wilde spent two years in prison because of it.
In the present, this Victorian style restaurant is a way to celebrate all that Oscar Wilde stood for. Hosting an impressive art (and object) collection dating back to the 1800’s you can enjoy a French fireplace from the 1840’s, stained glass from an Irish castle and so much more.
Making reservations at Oscar Wilde during the holiday season is non-negotiable. The decorations are unmatched and some of the best you’ll find among the many Christmas restaurants in New York City.
Every inch of the place gets decorated (including the ceiling), minimalism has no place here. And don’t even think about leaving without trying the Wilde bacon cheeseburger and truffle fries.
Local’s tip: check out all the clocks in the restaurant. You’ll find that they are set to 1:50. The reason? That’s the time that Oscar Wilde died. No corners are cut when it comes to attention to detail here!
Address: 45 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Magic Hour
What’s a trip to the Big Apple without visiting a rooftop bar? One of my personal favorites is Magic Hour, which also happens to be one of the best decorated Christmas restaurants in New York City
They spared no expense when it comes to decor. The place is vibrantly adorned with pink and purple flowers. There is a spinning carousel outfitted with couches where you can sip your cocktails with your gal pals.
During the holidays, Magic hour sets up a gondola (pink of course) surrounded by pink Christmas trees and ski lodge signs, creating the cutest backdrop for your Instagram pics. Not to mention there are epic views of the Empire State Building.
The only downside is that Magic Hour doesn’t allow cameras. (but you’re okay to take pictures on your phone). Be sure to capture all the memories you create if you visit Magic Hour, one of the cutest Christmas restaurants in New York City.
Address: 485 7th Ave 18th floor, New York, NY 10018
Pete’s Tavern
Pete’s Tavern opened in 1864, making it one of the oldest bars in New York City. In fact they stayed opened through prohibition by posing as a flower shop (nothing to see here, officer).
If you don’t want to visit for the history though you’ll want to visit because this is one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City. The bar oozes old-world charm and the hundreds of Christmas lights give it a modern dazzle.
The food at Pete’s Tavern is also splendid. Bar food has no business being this good, but I’m glad it is! The Italian cuisine pairs nicely with a full beer glass!
Here’s a fun note to share with your friends when you visit:
It’s said O.Henry wrote the famous holiday short story “The Gift of the Magi” at Pete’s in 1905. Although you might be unfamiliar with the title, you’ve probably seen an adaption.
In the story two people want to get each other a gift but can’t because of financial hardship. They then sell their own most prized possession to get the gift for the other, only to find the other has done the same thing.
Many adaptions have been made off the story’s premise, including when Minnie Mouse trades her watch to buy Mickey a case for his harmonica. Likewise, Mickey sells his harmonica to buy Minnie a chain for her watch.
This bit of holiday history is yet another reason Pete’s is one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City!
Address: 129 E 18th St, New York, NY 10003
Papillon Bistro
Papillon Bistro is a sister restaurant to both Lillie’s Victorian Establishment and Oscar Wilde (not surprising all three made our list of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City), so expect an astonishing amount of holiday decorations.
I’m talking head to toe covered in holiday decorations. From the outside, which is adorned by illuminated angels and a life-size Santa to the inside looking like a Hallmark movie threw up, they’ve got it all.
As soon as you step foot into this restaurant you are greeted with thousands of twinkling lights, colorful baubles and decked out Christmas trees, everywhere.
If that wasn’t enough, there is a giant festive teddy bear that hangs above the entrance and adds charm to the already stupendous atmosphere.
Since Papillon Bistro is both a bar and restaurant, the menu is curated to satisfy anyone hungry or thirsty. I never miss the chance to order the French onion soup and an espresso martini, adding to the warmth of one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City.
Address: 22 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022
Miracle on 9th Street
Miracle is a company started by Greg Boehm who decided to put a pin on the construction of his cocktail bar Mace (my favorite bar in the city) to open a holiday pop-up following the advice of his mother.
He used the unfinished space, decked it out with Christmas decorations and masterfully built a holiday-inspired menu of craft cocktails. It quickly became one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City, so it’s no surprise the word got out and locals started coming by the masses.
The next year they expanded the pop up by partnering with more bars around the city and now Miracle is a world-wide company. Today, New York City is home to Miracle on 9th in the East Village and Miracle on Union in Williamsburg.
Because the menu only consists of drinks I suggest making dinner plans before or after at one of the other Christmas restaurants in New York City before stopping by Miracle on 9th.
Something to note: The Miracle pop-ups are 21+ only
Address: 649 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009 & 595 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Loreley Beer Garden
Not only is Loreley Beer Garden one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City, it’s also home to the largest heated outdoor patio in the Lower East Side.
Starting November 23rd, Loreley Beer Garden transforms into a heated wonderland and it becomes every Christmas enthusiast’s dream come true.
I highly suggest making reservations in advance so you don’t miss out on one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City. Regardless if you choose to sit inside or outside, you’ll be surrounded by over-the-top Christmas decorations and twinkling lights.
Out in the heated patio area you’ll find a wall covered entirely by colorful ornaments that makes for a great backdrop for Instagram photos.
While at Loreley Beer Garden, make sure to try any of their holiday cocktails. I’m partial to the famous Boozy Black & White Hot Chocolate made with bourbon and my wife loves the Spiked Eggnog!
Keen’s Steakhouse
What do Teddy Roosevelt, Albert Einstein and Babe Ruth have in common? They’ve all enjoyed a meal at one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City — Keen’s Steakhouse.
Contrary to what the name suggests, Keen’s Steakhouse is best known for mutton chops, of all things. The servings are generous, with each chop clocking in at a 1.5 pounds. Cooked to perfection, the stuff practically melts on contact.
The old establishment is one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City, thanks to the wood panelling and cabin-esque interior. The wood-tones and warm lighting pairs beautifully with the green wreaths around the place.
Address: 72 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018
Sleyenda
Leyenda is a Brooklyn bar that shines a light onto Latin-American spirits, and for the holidays it transforms into one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City, Sleyenda.
Staying true to its roots, the menu adds twists to popular Latin-American drinks. The Coquito Ho Ho, Kwanzaa Colada and Mexican Hot Chocolate are some of the classics that have gotten a distinctive makeover.
And for all my fellow Netflix lovers, Sleyenda is part owned by Julie Reiner who was recently a judge on the show Drink Masters. The decorated mixologist is just one more reason Sleyenda is one of the best Christmas restaurants in NYC.
Address: 221 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Restaurant’s Open on Christmas in NYC
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
If you’re looking for the best restaurants to celebrate Christmas in New York City “Jewish style”, consider a stop at Nom Wah Tea Parlor. For those of you wondering, Jewish Christmas is when Jewish people (who don’t celebrate the holiday) order Chinese food and stay at home watching movies and sports.
And few restaurants warrant a visit more than Nom Wah Tea Parlor, the oldest dim sum restaurant in NYC. The century old establishment has a menu full of dumplings, noodles & soups that are sure to satisfy any craving.
Consider ordering it take out, to celebrate in the traditional way but if you have the time I suggest dining in. The restaurant has been in its original location since 1920 so there’s history to be appreciated!
Address: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Cafe Luxembourg
Café Luxembourg is a chic French-American bistro that serves some of the best French-inspired brunch one the UWS. Locals come for the delicious fare and return for the exceptional service. The menu is extensive (without being overwhelming) and ensures that everyone at the table will find something to love.
I can’t resist the Smoked Salmon Benedict (so good!) while my husband swears by the omelette. The flavorful dishes make it hard to stay away too long, and I find myself gravitating to this UWS brunch spot on a monthly basis.
One of my friend’s remarked at how charming the cafe is. She said she felt like the main character in a romantic comedy, half expecting Meg Ryan to pop in. Personally, I think she’s watched When Harry Met Sally one too many times, but hey — no judgement in that department.
Address: 200 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023
Quality Meats
The reason I feel confident adding Quality Meats to our list of Christmas restaurants in New York City is because of the extraordinary service. You leave the restaurant feeling like not only was the food great, but the employees actually cared that you had a good experience.
We just so happen to be lucky enough that they’re open on Christmas Day, so run — don’t walk to get reservations.
As the name suggests, Quality Meats serves, well… quality meat! Everything I’ve tasted at Quality Meats has been perfectly tender and juicy, practically melting in my mouth. The flavors are impeccable and I can’t recommend the Tomahawk ribeye enough.
It’s not often I grab dessert from the same place I ate my dinner, but Quality Meats has always been an exception because the sweets are so good. I still dream about the sticky toffee pudding to this day!
Address: 57 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019
La Grande Boucherie
The holidays are already such a special time, but what if I told you I knew a place that could take it up a notch?
La Grande Boucherie is a French restaurant that feels more like an elegant museum. The romantic interior could make anyone fall in love and makes you feel like everyday is a celebration when dining here.
After you finish unwrapping gifts, treat your special someone to a nice steak dinner at one of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City.
Address: 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Carmine’s
If you have a lot of mouths to feed on Christmas Day, I suggest making reservations at Carmine’s. The restaurant serves all the typical Italian fared food, from pasta to some of the best tiramisu. But what sets them apart is the portion sizes.
Carmine’s doesn’t play around when it comes to family style dining, so this is one of those “don’t let your eyes be bigger than your stomach” situations.
The reason? Your meal is intended to feel like an Italian wedding’s feast.
The place is usually busy (which is a great sign) and the service is great. Since they’re one of the best Christmas themed restaurants in New York City, plan ahead and reserve a table for Christmas Day.
Oh! And don’t even think about skipping out on the the crispy garlic bread, you must order it!
Address: 2450 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Best Christmas Restaurants NYC (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a quick rundown of the Christmas restaurants in New York City
- Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
- Rolf’s
- Balthazar’s
- Tavern on The Green
- Serra By Birreria
- Winter Wonderland at Watermark
- Rosemary’s
- Oscar Wilde
- Magic Hour
- Pete’s Tavern
- Papillion Bistro
- Miracle on 9th Street
- Loreley Beer Garden
- Palm Holiday at the Ready Rooftop
Map of Christmas restaurants NYC
Looking for more New York City holiday content?
- 15 Stunning New York City Christmas Trees (Local’s Guide)
- Where to see Christmas Lights in New York City
- Christmas in New York City: 20 MAGICAL Things to Do (5 to Avoid)
- The Complete Guide to Celebrating New Years in New York City
And there you have it, our list of Christmas restaurants in New York City. Let us know if you think we missed a spot.
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