24 NYC Christmas Restaurants with the BEST Holiday Decor
This list of NYC Christmas restaurants is your perfect holiday guide to finding the BEST Christmas-decorated restaurants in NYC this year!
If you’re heading to New York City this December and want to get in the festive spirit, this complete list of NYC Christmas restaurants is for YOU!
New York City and Christmas just go hand-in-hand. I mean, the entire city just transforms with holiday decor when the holiday season rolls around, and some restaurants even go all out to create a magical Christmas atmosphere too!
Whether you’re planning a cozy holiday brunch or just looking for some restaurants that decorate for Christmas in NYC, these restaurants are PERFECT for getting into the holiday spirit.
This post is all about the best NYC Christmas restaurants to add to your holiday plans!
NYC Christmas Restaurants That You Can’t Miss
This complete list of NYC Christmas restaurants is a good mix of restaurants that go totally over-the-top with their Christmas decorations and some that are a bit cozier and casual with the decor. No matter your preference, you’re sure to find the most perfect and festive restaurant to visit this year in New York City!
I put together a Google Map to help you navigate the best NYC Christmas restaurants to visit. As you can see from the map, you have quite a few Christmas-themed restaurants to choose from!
Rolf’s: A Totally DECKED-OUT Christmas Restaurant in NYC
Let’s just say “the Christmas is CHRISTMAS-ING” at Rolf’s! Rolf’s, a German restaurant, is probably the most famous Christmas restaurant in NYC because they literally go ALL OUT.
They have more than 200,000 antique glass ornaments and tons of twinkling lights hanging from the ceiling, making for the most fun and festive Christmas restaurant to visit.
They specialize in Southern German and Bavarian dishes, like wiener schnitzel, sauerbraten, apple strudel, and more. Although they aren’t necessarily known for their food, Rolf’s is definitely worth visiting to experience the fun and festive atmosphere. Also, their holiday drinks were definitely expensive, like $26 for spiked egg nog, but overall they were good!
PRO TIP: Call ASAP to get a reservation for Christmastime. Since Christmas is their busiest season, reservations fill up FAST. Unfortunately, they don’t offer online reservations, so calling is the only way to go! To make a reservation at Rolf’s, call 212-477-4750.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment: One of the Best NYC Holiday Restaurants
Photo Credit: Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
Talk about a FUN restaurant to visit in NYC during Christmas! Lillie’s Victorian Establishment goes all out with their decor every season (especially for Christmas and Halloween).
This Victorian-inspired restaurant is known for their Afternoon Tea Experience, which is offered daily until 4pm. During this time, you can enjoy tea, assorted pastries, scones, muffins, jams, petite sandwiches, and creme brulee and macaroons for dessert! If you’d like a full meal, they also have a great brunch and dinner menu.
PRO TIP: Lillie’s is close to the Broadway theaters, making it a great restaurant to visit before or after your Broadway show!
Rosemary’s: A Festive Italian Restaurant with Christmas Decor
The one word people use to describe Rosemary’s is SPECIAL! Located in Greenwich Village, this warm and cozy Italian restaurant truly captures the holiday vibe. They are known for their genuine care and service for their customers and for creating a magical experience at Christmas!
In terms of Christmas decor, this restaurant is known for its huge Christmas tree sitting on the rooftop outside. Inside, you’ll find twinkling lights and garland strung from the ceiling that set the scene for a memorable Christmas brunch, lunch, or dinner.
People love ordering olive oil cake, brussel sprouts, and orecchiette dishes.
Tavern on the Green: A Classic New York Christmas Experience
If you’re looking for that perfect New York Christmas vibe, Tavern on the Green is the place to be! Located right in the famous Central Park, this iconic restaurant offers a cozy and festive escape after a day of exploring. I mean, just imagine yourself warming up with one of their seasonal cocktails, like a spiced cider or hot chocolate!
Originally designed to house more than 200 sheep in the 1800s, Tavern on the Green was transformed into a restaurant in 1934 by Robert Moses. It’s since become a New York City landmark, featured in countless movies, like Ghostbusters, Alfie, Mr. Popper’s Penguins, and many more.
During the holidays, Tavern on the Green is definitely worth a visit. A 20-foot Christmas tree decorated with over 2,000 ornaments sets the festive scene, and live jazz performances add to the atmosphere. The holiday decorations and historic architecture create a warm, festive ambiance that’s perfect for a Christmas meal or a drink to escape the winter cold.
I highly recommend reserving a table in advance, as this restaurant is quite popular among tourists during the holiday season in New York City.
SERRA by Birreria
Who else is dreaming of a white Christmas?! If you’re looking for an easygoing, festive restaurant in NYC with amazing Italian food, SERRA by Birreria should be at the top of your list.
Located on the top level of the Eataly building, this rooftop restaurant turns into a winter wonderland during the holiday season (the rooftop is enclosed for the winter, so you can enjoy the NYC skyline without freezing). With twinkling lights and a cozy winter garden vibe, it’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the quality and atmosphere make it worth it. Just remember to book a reservation in advance!
Serendipity 3: A Fun and Festive NYC Christmas Restaurant
Looking for a festive spot to enjoy some Christmassy desserts in NYC? Serendipity 3 is a must-visit! This iconic NYC restaurant, known for its legendary “Frrrozen Hot Chocolate,” gets an extra dose of holiday magic with colorful garlands and vibrant decorations.
Serendipity 3 has been a New York favorite since 1954, attracting locals, tourists, and even celebrities. The Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is what they’re most famous for. And during the holiday season, this tasty hot chocolate gets a little festive upgrade! It’s topped with whipped cream, green glitter vanilla sauce, a candy poinsettia flower, candy ornaments, sugar stars, and red and green maraschino cherries.
During the holidays, Serendipity 3 turns into a pink winter wonderland with wreaths, garlands, Christmas trees, and funky ornaments. It’s super busy, so make sure to book a reservation. The unique ambiance and festive desserts make it worth the visit.
The food menu at Serendipity 3 has all the classics like mac and cheese, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and waffles, but the desserts are definitely the main reason to come here. Also, the portions are huge, so consider splitting a dish if you’re coming with friends or family.
La Grande Boucherie: A Parisian Christmas Restaurant in NYC
La Grande Boucherie is a beautiful blend of a steakhouse and a Parisian restaurant in NYC. This restaurant offers more classic holiday decor, rather than going completely decked-out like some other NYC Christmas restaurants. Think warm and inviting atmosphere, with twinkling lights, festive garland, and a huge Christmas tree — perfect for those holiday photo ops!
Located near The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and Radio City, La Grande Boucherie is a great option for a meal during your holiday weekend. Many people make reservations for La Grande Boucherie before or after seeing the famous Rockettes Christmas Spectacular show at Radio City!
This NYC Christmas restaurant is open on Christmas Day, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a special restaurant to visit on Christmas.
PRO TIP: Make a reservation to ensure you get a spot, especially during the busy holiday season.
Industry Kitchen: A Festive Waterfront NYC Restaurant
Industry Kitchen is full of seasonal dishes, holiday decor, and photo ops galore! If you’re looking for a festive dining experience by the water in NYC, Industry Kitchen is the place to be this holiday season. Located along the East River near the South Street Seaport, this NYC Christmas restaurant offers beautiful views of the Brooklyn and Williamsburg Bridges and the Brooklyn skyline.
Industry Kitchen transforms into a holiday wonderland with extensive Christmas decor spread across 5,000 square feet. Their unique heated greenhouses on the water, also known as igloos, provide a cozy and warm dining experience with incredible views of the river.
The pizzas are their most popular, especially the Gingernut Pizza with a ginger crust and eggnog frosting for a festive twist during the holidays.
PRO TIP: Make sure to book a reservation, especially if you want to dine in one of the glasshouses. They light up in red and green at night, adding to the festive atmosphere. This spot is somewhat a hidden gem, making it a great choice to avoid the holiday crowds in Midtown.
Pete’s Tavern: A Historic Christmas Restaurant in NYC
If you’re looking for a place that combines historic charm with festive cheer, Pete’s Tavern is the perfect spot! Established in 1864, this iconic bar and restaurant in Gramercy Park gets decked out for the holidays each year, with beautiful decorations, including a canopy of tiny red lights, that put you right in the Christmas spirit! The decor alone makes it a must-visit during Christmas time.
The menu at Pete’s Tavern is diverse, featuring hearty dishes like chicken pot pie, steak frites, and penne a la vodka, as well as classic bar favorites like hamburgers and fries. Their drinks menu includes mulled wine, Irish coffee, and a range of festive cocktails that are perfect for the season. Don’t miss the eggnog—it’s a holiday favorite! Some people stop by for just a drink at the bar, while others come for a full meal.
This bar and restaurant can get very crowded, especially during the holidays, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation.
Papillon Bistro & Bar: A Festive Christmas Restaurant in NYC
Papillon Bistro & Bar is such a fun spot to visit in NYC during the holiday season. Known for going all out with their Christmas decorations, this bistro and bar offers a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for Christmas lovers.
The decor is totally over the top, with tons of tinsel and ornaments in every corner, making it a great place for holiday photo ops. The Christmas decorations are so stunning that many people stop by here just to take in the Christmas spirit!
It’s worth sharing that while the Christmas decor is incredible, many people feel that the service isn’t that great. So, if you want to check out the Christmas decor at Papillon Bistro & Bar, I’d recommend stopping by for a drink and maybe an appetizer to enjoy the festive atmosphere and then heading elsewhere for your main meal.
Oscar Wilde: A Victorian Christmas Restaurant in NYC
Oscar Wilde in the Flatiron District goes ALL OUT for the holidays, creating such a FUN and magical Christmas atmosphere with its stunning decorations. Known for their extravagant holiday decor, the place is covered from floor to ceiling with wreaths, garlands, and ornaments.
The bar, which holds the title of the longest in NYC at 118.5 feet, features an impressive drink menu that adds to the festive experience. This spot is incredibly popular during the holiday season, so be sure to make a reservation.
Loreley Beer Garden: A Festive Beer Garden in NYC
Loreley Beer Garden is a must-visit during the holidays, especially if you love over-the-top Christmas decorations and festive vibes. Located in the Lower East Side, this beer garden is modeled after a traditional German “Brauhaus” and features the largest heated outdoor patio in the area.
During the holiday season, Loreley transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, ornaments, and outdoor heaters to keep you cozy. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a seasonal beer flight or festive cocktails like boozy eggnog, hot bourbon apple cider, and peppermint martinis.
The menu offers a mix of elevated bar food and German favorites. Don’t miss out on their sausage sandwich, big pretzel, or French onion soup.
Make sure to reserve a spot, especially during the busy holiday season!
PRO TIP: Although they have heaters, be sure to dress extra warm if you plan to sit outside!
Balthazar: A Classic NYC Christmas Restaurant
Balthazar is one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City, and during Christmas, it becomes even MORE magical!
Balthazar’s holiday decor isn’t about going overboard; it’s about classic elegance. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, garlands, and Christmas trees, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a festive meal with friends or a romantic brunch.
Opened by Keith McNally in 1997, Balthazar has earned a reputation for its incredible food. Their eggs Benedict with smoked salmon is among the best in the city, and the French onion soup is a must-try. And if brunch is your thing but you can’t get a table, the bakery next door offers AMAZING treats!
Reservations are a must, especially during the holiday season.
Miracle on 9th Street at The Cabinet: NYC Holiday Pop-Up
If you’re a fan of all things Christmas, Miracle on 9th Street at The Cabinet Mezcal Bar is where you need to be this holiday season. This festive pop-up transforms the space into a cozy, over-the-top Christmas wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, ornaments, and holiday-themed music that keeps the festive spirit alive.
Each cocktail is as creative as it is tasty, with options like the “Grandma Got Run Over By A T-Rex” and “Christmas Cricket” served in fun, Christmas-themed glasses. If you’re into minty flavors, the Christmas Cricket is a must-try with its blend of coconut and pandan. The drinks are a bit on the pricey side, but they’re well worth it for the experience and the quality.
While food options are limited, the drinks more than make up for it. This isn’t the place for a full meal, but it’s the perfect spot to start your evening or wrap up a night of holiday festivities. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall experience.
The space is small, so you should DEFINITELY make a reservation to ensure you get a spot, especially since it fills up quickly.
The Skinny Bar and Lounge: A Festive NYC Dive Bar for the Holidays
The Skinny Bar and Lounge, a two-level dive bar, gets a festive makeover during the Christmas season, complete with colorful lights, garlands, ornaments, and holiday decor covering every corner.
The vibe here is casual and laid-back, perfect for a night out with friends. The food is typical bar food, so you may just consider grabbing a drink here and then heading somewhere else for a higher-quality meal!
Just be ready for some crowds, especially during the holiday season. But once you’re in, you’ll find a fun, festive atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit with friends!
Ophelia Lounge NYC: A 360° Indoor Rooftop Hangout
If you’re looking for a unique rooftop restaurant to check out in NYC during Christmas, Ophelia Lounge is where it’s at. This rooftop bar and restaurant, 26 floors up, turns into a “Snow Globe in the Sky” during the holidays, with blue lights and snowflakes hanging from the ceiling like icicles. It has a winter-chic vibe, with fur throws on the furniture that make it feel super cozy!
The views are awesome—you can see the East River on one side and the Downtown skyline on the other. It’s perfect for a night out with friends or a date, especially with the 360° indoor rooftop giving you incredible views from every angle.
The drinks are just as good as the views, with craft cocktails that not only taste great but also look pretty cool. If you’re feeling hungry, the baked brie and sea bass skewers are great choices, and you’ve got to try the truffle fries.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea: A Timeless NYC Christmas Restaurant
If you’re looking for a romantic and festive spot in NYC during the holidays, One if by Land, Two if by Sea should be on your list. This upscale and historic restaurant, located in a 1767 carriage house, is known for its cozy atmosphere, complete with candlelit tables, brick fireplaces, and a live pianist that sets the perfect mood.
During the Christmas season, the place transforms into what feels like a scene straight out of a Charles Dickens novel. The Christmas decorations make it extra magical for a holiday meal.
For the best experience, consider coming early for cocktails by the fireplace, then maybe skip the full dinner and opt for drinks and desserts instead.
VALERIE: A Festive Holiday Restaurant in NYC
VALERIE is a beautifully decorated bar and restaurant that is all decked out for Christmas, with twinkling lights, garlands, and Christmas trees everywhere you look. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with Christmas music playing in the background that really sets the mood.
Whether you’re stopping in for a meal or just a cocktail, VALERIE doesn’t disappoint. The brunch menu is a hit—try the crab cake Benedict and pair it with the English breakfast cocktail for a great start to your day. The cocktails are amazing, and the bar area gets pretty lively, especially around 5 pm, but the staff is super accommodating.
The Churchill Tavern: A Cozy British Pub for Christmas in NYC
The Churchill Tavern is a great spot to experience a bit of British tradition in NYC, with all the holiday spirit you could ask for. Perfect for a cozy meal with friends or a festive drink during the holiday season in NYC!
This British pub feels like a little piece of England right in the heart of the city, especially during Christmas when it’s decked out with festive lights, garlands, and wreaths that create a wonderfully cozy atmosphere.
The Churchill offers a great selection of British and local beers, and the menu features classic English dishes like fish ‘n chips, black pudding croquettes, and Scotch eggs. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in by the fireplace with a pint and enjoy some hearty, comforting food (AKA the perfect type of meal to escape the cold NYC winter!).
Molly’s Shebeen Bar + Restaurant: A Cozy Irish Pub in NYC
Molly’s Shebeen is the kind of place you want to visit every year during the holiday season. This cozy Irish pub on the Lower East Side gets all decorated for Christmas, with twinkling lights strung across the space and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to escape the NYC winter.
The menu is full of Irish classics, and if you’re looking for a recommendation, the pot pie is one of their most popular dishes!
Paddy Maguire’s Ale House: A Festive Irish Pub in NYC
Located near Rolf’s and Pete’s Tavern, Paddy Maguire’s is a great stop if you’re doing a holiday bar crawl in NYC. It’s a laid-back spot with pool tables in the back, friendly staff, and a welcoming crowd. Whether you’re there for a quick drink or to hang out for the night, you’ll find plenty of holiday spirit at this festive Irish pub.
This friendly corner bar is known for going all-out with decorations for every holiday, and Christmas is no exception. The outside is lit up with a wall of lights shaped like a Christmas tree, and inside, the ceiling is covered with ornaments and tinsel that give the whole place a warm, festive glow.
The drinks are a bit pricey, but the cozy ambiance and cheerful vibe make it worth it. If you’re not in the mood for a cocktail, the beer selection is great, and they’ve got a great Bailey’s coffee that’s also perfect for warming up on a cold day!
Frosty’s Christmas Bar: A Festive Must-Visit Pop-Up Bar in NYC
Frosty’s Christmas Bar in Midtown is the place to go if you want to dive headfirst into the holiday spirit. This NYC holiday pop-up bar offers three floors of Christmas decorations, from wreaths and ribbons to life-size toy soldiers.
If you plan to come to Frosty’s, just be aware that it gets CROWDED—really crowded. It’s important to note that a lot of people come for the decorations and the atmosphere, not necessarily for the food or the service. So, if you’re planning a visit, it’s best to go in with that mindset.
While they do offer some small bites and sandwiches, it’s not recommended to eat here due to the overwhelming amount of people. Sure, it can be a bit chaotic, and yes, the drinks are on the expensive side, but if you’re after a festive spot to add to your NYC Christmas bucket list, Frosty’s is a fun choice!
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a ticket to get in. I recommend you purchase tickets, stop by for a Christmas-themed cocktail, snap some photos, and head out to enjoy the rest of your day!
Leyenda: A Festive Latin Christmas Restaurant in Brooklyn
You can never go wrong with Latin food and Christmas vibes, and Leyenda in Carroll Gardens nails it every year. This cozy spot turns into “Sleyenda” during the holidays, going all out with festive decor. Think over-the-top holiday decorations and creative, themed cocktails served in fun glasses like Santa’s Boots.
The holiday cocktails here are so fun and perfect for the season. Whether you go for something classic like the Tia Mia or try one of their seasonal specials like the Coquito Ho Ho, you’re in for a unique and festive experience.
Leyenda isn’t just about the drinks; the food is equally fantastic. The menu features a variety of Latin-inspired dishes that pair perfectly with your cocktail. Favorites include the Platanos Fritos, Empanadas de Haba, and Panuchos topped with coconut-habanero shrimp.
Watermark: A Winter Wonderland on the NYC Waterfront
Watermark, a NYC waterfront bar and restaurant, goes all out during the holidays, complete with heated glasshouses, twinkling Christmas lights, and cozy decorations that make it feel like a holiday escape.
The atmosphere is super festive, with Christmas music setting the perfect mood. While the space isn’t huge, it’s packed with holiday cheer. You can sip on spiked hot chocolate or their special “ornamentini” while enjoying the beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the skyline.
Kids will love the Santa’s Winter Wonderland experience, complete with Mrs. Claus’ Candy Bar, Santa’s Game Room, and plenty of photo ops with Santa himself. Don’t miss the chance to make your own s’mores!
And that’s a WRAP on the best NYC Christmas restaurants! Whether you’re in the mood for an over-the-top festive atmosphere or a cozy spot with classic holiday decor, this list of NYC restaurants with Christmas decorations has you covered. Each of these spots offers something unique, from dazzling lights and creative holiday cocktails to warm, comforting meals that make you feel right at home.
As you plan your Christmas vacation in New York City, make sure to add a few of these holiday-themed restaurants to your itinerary. They’re perfect for creating special memories with friends and family, whether you’re enjoying a festive brunch, a cozy dinner, or just enjoying the Christmas vibes.
Don’t forget to make those reservations early—these spots fill up fast during the holiday season!
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