The 43 Best Christmas Restaurants NYC
Where can I eat on Christmas Day in NYC?
Though the majority of places are closed for Christmas day, a surprising number stay open for a very special Christmas Dinner in NYC. Our favorite Christmas Restaurants NYC offer many additional special dishes, prix fixe options, and, of course, Christmas decorations.
If you’re in town on Christmas Day and are wondering where you could go out to eat at night, this is the right article for you. When it comes to the best restaurants on Christmas Day there are a few that I can highly recommend.
My tip: This is my guide to Christmas in NYC with everything you need to know!
43 Amazing New York City Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Are you looking for options for Christmas dinner in NYC? New York City has top-notch restaurants featuring impressive menus on Christmas Day. Christmas in New York is the most wonderful time of the year in the city. Here is a list of my absolute favorite Christmas New York City restaurants and your guide to which restaurants are open on Christmas Day in NYC.
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01
Benoit
French Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Here at Benoit you can get the French classics like cassoulet or onion soup. The restaurant is famous for its fantastic fish dishes and steaks. Be sure to order the fries with it – they are second to none. The Benoit is also ideal for a romantic dinner for two, as the selection is large and the wines are sensational.
- On Christmas Eve + Day, there is a 3-course menu with choices for $99 p.p. There are four appetizers to choose from, such as oysters or sea bream, and four main courses.
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02
Haven Rooftop & Restaurant
Rooftop Bar in Theatre District
In the heart of the Theatre District on Times Square you will find the Haven Rooftop & Restaurant. It is on the 10th floor of the Sanctuary Hotel at 47th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue and offers you a sensational perspective. Although it is in Times Square, it is surprisingly quiet. I love the mix of “being in the middle of the city” and “still having peace and quiet” – and that’s exactly what you can expect there.
- On Christmas Eve, there will be a 3-course menu with choices for $85 p.p.
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03
The Press Club Grill
American Restaurant in NoMadUnder the culinary guidance of Chef Franklin Becker and Stephen Loffredo, The Press Club Grill delivers classic Manhattan steakhouse fare, featuring succulent dishes such as NY Strip and Grilled Rack of Lamb. It also showcases signature offerings from the era, including Beef Wellington, Waldorf Salad, and Chicken Kyiv. As the Martinique Hotel NYC’s official three-meal period venue, this restaurant embodies the spirit of an iconic era while offering a contemporary dining experience.
- On Christmas Eve, there will be a prix-fixe dinner with choices for $89 p.p.
- On Christmas Day, there will be the regular breakfast, as well as a prix-fixe lunch/dinner with choices for $89 p.p.
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04
Le Coucou
French Restaurant in SoHo
With Daniel Rose as chef, Paris comes to New York! The Michelin-starred restaurant Le Coucou serves French cuisine at a very high level. Located in the beautiful Soho district, it is the ideal place if you are looking for a romantic restaurant in New York.
In addition to the classy Parisian ambiance, you can watch the open kitchen crew at work. The menu includes French classics such as halibut, lobster, and fillet of beef with foie gras.
- The Christmas menu will be announced soon.
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05
Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao Koreatown
Asian Restaurant in Korea Town
Xiao Long Bao, commonly known as Soup Dumplings, traces its roots back to Nan Xiang County in Shanghai, China. In 2006, “Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao” made its debut in the heart of Flushing, New York, a hub for Asian cuisine, and has since garnered a devoted following among food enthusiasts in the city. For over 16 years, Nan Xiang has been the top choice for local Chinese immigrants seeking authentic Northern Chinese, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang cuisine. Beyond the local Chinese community, numerous Western diners also flock to Nan Xiang to savor our renowned dishes, as recommended by various publications and food bloggers.
- If you want to eat something out of the ordinary this Christmas, come to Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao in Koreatown and try the delicious signature dim sum.
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06
Hortus NYC
American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Are you looking for the perfect place to celebrate Christmas with your special someone in New York City? Look no further than Hortus NYC! Located in the stylish Greenwich Village neighborhood, this modern American restaurant is sure to impress with its upscale atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
As you step inside Hortus NYC, you’ll be immediately struck by the romantic ambiance. The restaurant’s sleek design and dim lighting create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner for two. You’ll be treated to a menu filled with tasty options as you take your seat. From seafood and steak to vegetarian dishes, there’s something for everyone at Hortus NYC. And with a well-curated wine list, it’s easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
This year, Hortus NYC will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., and dinner from 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. (Christmas Eve & Christmas Day).
- On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, there will be a prix-fixe menu for $80 p.p.
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07
The Ribbon
American Restaurant in Upper West SideSituated on the Upper West Side, The Ribbon represents the quintessential New York restaurant experience. From their extensive wine list and craft cocktails to their mastery of American classics with a hint of French influence, there’s no better Christmas dinner than that at The Ribbon NYC.
- The Christmas Dinner is yet to be announced.
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08
Antica Pesa Brooklyn
Italian Restaurant in Williamsburg
Antica Pesa Brooklyn is an Italian restaurant in Williamsburg that is owned by four generations of the Panella family. Their first restaurant opened in Rome 1922, and the Williamsburg location recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. If you like Italian cuisine, you should stop by here. They serve classic Italian dishes with a modern twist in a very beautiful and romantic surroundings.
On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, they serve a very special menu. You can choose from 5 different antipasti (including a homemade brioche with lobster, prawns, lemon mayonnaise, and chives), 8 main courses (including Risotto Alla Pescatora), and 4 desserts (including Cannoli and Tiramisù). The price is $100, you can reserve your table here and check out the Anica Pisa Christmas Menu here.
- On Christmas, they offer a 3-course menu with choices for $100 p.p.
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09
One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Other Restaurants in West Village
One if by Land, Two if by Sea has the reputation to be the city’s most romantic restaurant and has also been voted the 5th most romantic restaurant in the world – for good reasons. The former carriage house, built in 1767, does not only stand out due to its charming architecture but also due to its rich history. The property was once owned by the United States’ first Attorney General Aaron Burr.
After the duel in which he shot Alexander Hamilton, he lost the property and it was later repurposed until it became the restaurant we love today. The decor is simply beautiful. On top of that, One if by Land, Two if by Sea features several fireplaces, a piano, and a garden. As you may imagine, the food is absolutely amazing, too. The restaurant is said to be the most popular restaurant in New York for engagements, too.
- For Christmas, they offer a 4-course menu with choices for $195 p.p.
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10
Enjoy the Christmas Dinner aboard a glass-enclosed Bateaux, Manhattan's most premium experience on the water!
Cruise in Chelsea
At Christmas time there are several boat tours with the Bateaux: On December 24 you can choose between a Christmas Eve Gourmet Lunch Cruise and the Christmas Eve Dinner Harbor Cruise.
The Lunch Cruise lasts 2 hours, the Dinner Cruise 3 hours. You can expect a 3-course Christmas menu, impressive views of the New York skyline and a festive ambience.
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11
OLIO E PIÙ
Italian Restaurant in Greenwich Village
OLIO E PIÙ, drawing inspiration from Neapolitan cuisine, captures the essence of Mediterranean vibrancy in NYC, Chicago, and Washington D.C. This authentic trattoria offers classic Italian dishes, house-made pasta, hand-stretched pizza, and beloved favorites like Caprese salad and tiramisu, with a menu that evolves with the seasons. With its rustic interior, open dining space, and thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail selection, OLIO E PIÙ brings a taste of old-world Italy to these vibrant cities.
- For Christmas, they offer a special menu including roasted duck breast.
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12
Jams
American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Jams, located at 1 Hotel Central Park, is owned and operated by Chef Jonathan Waxman, and will be open all day on Christmas Day, offering a day full of food options.
Whether you’re looking for an in-room brunch basket experience overlooking the parade, brunch near Jams’ floor-to-ceiling windows, or a prix-fixe delectable three-course meal, Chef Waxman’s Jams will help you make the most of Christmas in New York City.
- The Christmas menu is yet to be announced.
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13
Hearth
Other Restaurants in East Village
Another East Village spot that I regularly visit is Hearth. With a focus on sustainable, clean eating, it’s where brunch is not just a meal, but an experience. Their whipped ricotta toast with poached apple and candied pepitas is heavenly, as is the Cacio e Pepe Polenta.
Besides their delicious brunch, they will offer a great Christmas dinner this year, too. Experience The Feast of the Seven Fishes at Hearth in the East Village! This Italian-American repast is a much-loved tradition at Hearth. On Christmas Eve, they’re offering a 4-course seafood celebration.
- For Christmas, they offer a 4-course seafood menu for $135 p.p.
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14
Tavern on the Green
Sea Food Restaurant in Upper West Side
Can you imagine anything more romantic for Christmas than spending your Christmas dinner on Christmas Day in Central Park? Tavern on the Green is an American cuisine restaurant located right inside the park that offers a pre-fix Christmas dinner for $135 ($75 for children 12 and under).
The landmark restaurant has been featuring excellent cuisine since 1934 when Central Park was renovated. Tavern on the Green on Christmas is very popular also because of its all-out holiday decor where you can cozy up under 10,000 sparkling string lights and lots of green firs. Make sure to reserve your table months in advance!
- For Christmas, Tavern on the Green offers a 4-course menu with choices for $135.
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15
Try Mexican food for Christmas at Casa Bond
Mexican Restaurant in NoHo
Casa Bond, a Mexican restaurant in NYC, offers an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Owned by Mike Khuu and led by Executive Chef-Owner Rodrigo Abrajan and Managing Partner Luis Villanueva, this vibrant eatery brings the flavors of the Mexican Riviera and Central Mexico to the Bowery dining scene. Casa Bond’s tacos are culinary works of art.
- For Christmas, there will be a 3-course prix-fixe menu with choices for $65 p.p.
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16
T-Squared Social
Other Restaurants in Midtown ManhattanJoin T-Squared Social this Christmas season, the upscale sports and entertainment bar co-owned by Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake. Located conveniently near Grand Central Station and Bryant Park (7 E 42nd Street), it’s the perfect holiday destination for both tourists and locals. Enjoy duckpin bowling, electronic darts, and state-of-the-art golf simulators while indulging in their Naughty & Nice cocktail list throughout December, served in festive glassware.
- For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, savor a Chinese feast alongside the regular lunch and dinner menu, featuring delectable dishes like Lobster Rangoon, Crispy Duck Buns, Scallion Pancake, „Bulgogi“ Short Ribs, and Lacquered Iberico Pork Ribs.
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17
Christmas Restaurants NYC: Boqueria
Spanish Restaurant in SoHoOur Highlight
One of my favorite restaurants is Boqueria which is a lively, Barcelona-style tapas bar. They are serving a menu of Spanish classics and market-driven seasonal specials in a warm, modern space. Do you love authentic Spanish cuisine? Then you won’t ever want to leave Boqueria in NYC. Their Christmas menu offers classic tapas including a seasonal favorite of fried egg, delicious potato cream, Perigord truffles, and Jamón Ibérico. They also feature a luxurious Seafood Suquet for the table to share and concludes with an extra special treat. Feliz Navidad!
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18
Little Prince
French Restaurant in SoHoOur Highlight
For the first time we noticed the French restaurant in summer: the windows can be opened completely and because it is so small, you have a window seat & table all to yourself, so to speak. Super-romantic and that’s why it immediately landed on our list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC.
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19
Bubby's Tribeca
American Restaurant in TribecaOur Highlight
Credits to Bubby'sWhen it comes to the best brunch in Tribeca NYC, Bubby’s is a neighborhood diner that offers a unique experience. From 8 am to 4 pm daily, indulge in their mouthwatering, cooked-from-scratch dishes. Don’t miss their must-try Crab Cake Benedict: perfectly cooked crab cakes topped with rich béarnaise sauce, served with sautéed spinach and your choice of home fries or salad.
Feeling adventurous? Though it’s not one of your run-of-the-mill breakfast sandwiches, try the Crab Cake Sandwich for a delightful twist on brunch. Bubby’s restaurant has been delighting locals for over 30 years with their exceptional food. So, make sure to visit Bubby’s in Tribeca and experience their delicious brunch for yourself!
Bubby’s does not only serve Brunch but also a great lunch and dinner. I can only recommend the Ribeye Steak with stuffed potato and asparagus!
- The Christmas menu is yet to be announced.
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20
Dirty French
French Restaurant in Lower East Side
Dirty French is a French bistro created by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick located inside The Ludlow Hotel on the Lower East Side. It’s a really great location for your Christmas dinner in the city.
Experience a memorable Christmas celebration at Dirty French New York with a special Christmas menu. Begin with delightful Hors d’Oeuvre options such as Tuna Tartare and Oysters Bourguignon. Select from entrées like Filet Mignon au Poivre or Steamed Black Bass, complemented by classic Pommes Frites. Wrap up your festive meal with a shared dessert selection.
- This year there will be a prix-fixe menu with choices for $125 p.p.
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21
Cote
Asian Restaurant in Flatiron District
New York City is home to so many great Michelin-starred restaurants. Another such place is Cote which is a Korean steakhouse that will offer a tasty meaty feast. Included in the meal are four cuts of USDA Prime and American Wagyu beef with traditional Korean sides such as spicy kimchi stew, savory egg soufflé, and sticky rice stuffing with shiitake mushrooms and Chinese sausage.
- For Christmas, they offer a feast of seven steaks + sides for $225 p.p., as well as a la carte options.
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22
IRIS Restaurant
Mediterranean Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
IRIS Restaurant is located near Central Park and serves Mediterranean cuisine at a high level. Their mezze mix is incredibly popular, they are also known for the Swordfish Kebab and Aegean Stew.
- The Christmas dinner menu is yet to be announced.
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23
La Goulue
French Restaurant in Upper East Side
Add a touch of French culture to your Thanksgiving meal by enjoying your dinner at La Goulue. This Upper East Side establishment is offering a three-course meal for $96 per adult or $48 for each child under 12. The menu will offer foods such as tuna tartare, butternut squash soup, steak au poivre, roasted organic turkey, pumpkin tart, and pecan mascarpone napoleon.
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24
The View
American Restaurant in Theatre District
Well known as one of the most popular Christmas restaurants in NYC for Christmas Dinner The View inside the Marriott Marquis Hotel on Times Square is oftentimes booked out months in advance. Save your spot in the fall if you want to spend your Christmas dinner here.
- The Christmas dinner has not been announced yet.
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25
Carmine's Italian Restaurant
Italian Restaurant in Theatre District
Whether you want to eat at the restaurant or enjoy a “home-cooked” dinner, Carmine’s has you covered. This year, they’ll be offering a family-style dinner for takeout or dine-in. Their Shrimp Parmigiana is amazing!
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26
Osprey in Brooklyn
American Restaurant in DumboOur Highlight
The Osprey offered a prix fixe dinner on last year’s Christmas Day. With their offerings, you could choose from fluke Crudo, venison shank, honey nut squash soup, horchata panna cotta, foraged mushroom risotto, and heritage breed turkey stuffed with mortadella-chestnut stuffing.
- This year’s Christmas menu is yet to be announced.
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27
Aquavit
Other Restaurants in Midtown ManhattanSpice up your Christmas dinner in NYC by visiting Aquavit, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. On the menu are amazing dishes like spiced turkey breast, and smoked turkey leg as main courses, and sides that include Truffle mac and cheese, sweet potato puree, pumpkin sourdough bread, and Danish rye loaf with butter.
- This year, Aquavit offers a Christmas dinner to go! The menu includes (amongst others) Smoked Salmon, Christmas Ham and Mustard, Swedish Meatballs, and a chocolate cake. It serves four people and costs $525.
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28
Red Rooster
American Restaurant in Harlem & Washington HeightsOur Highlight
If you’re looking for authentic Harlem Soul Food, Red Rooster is the perfect spot for you. It is open on Christmas Day in NYC and will create a very casual environment on Christmas Day for you. Red Rooster offers excellent American cuisine as inspired by Marcus Samuelsson’s culinary journey and influenced by the vibrant neighborhoods of his travels.
If you are more into speakeasy vibes, escape from the hustle of the city outside and find yourself downstairs in Red Rooster’s best-kept secret, Ginny’s Supper Club. Stay for the live music after and dance your Christmas dinner off!
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29
Eleven Madison Park
American Restaurant in Flatiron District
Another great place to enjoy a Michelin-starred Christmas dinner is at the recently-vegan Eleven Madison Park. Their new menu includes all plant-based vegan.
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30
Boucherie West Village
French Restaurant in West Village
Around NYC, you’ll find four Boucherie sister restaurants, all of which will offer a special menu including roasted Halibut for Christmas dinner. Don’t miss the gingerbread mousse for dessert!
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31
Rolf's Restaurant
Other Restaurants in Gramercy -
32
Le Crocodile
French Restaurant in WilliamsburgLast year, Le Crocodile, the brasserie of the famous Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg was serving a menu with many traditional Christmas additions to their a la carte menu.
- This year’s Christmas dinner menu is yet to be announced.
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33
Antique Garage
Other Restaurants in SoHo
As the name suggests, the location used to be an old screwdriver garage, which was brought to life in 2003. The furnishing with antique paintings and lamps creates a relaxed, cosy atmosphere. And then the food: the starters alone are already a blast. Try “Mezze” – these are Mediterranean little treats.
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34
The Standard Grill
American Restaurant in Meatpacking District
The Standard Grill is going big for Christmas in New York City. Last year, the famed West Side bistro offered a prix fixe four-course meal.
- On Christmas, there will be a special holiday brunch offering at The Standard Grill.
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35
Vestry
American Restaurant in SoHoAre you looking for a Michelin-starred spot in Soho offering a Christmas dinner? Look no further than Vestry’s! They offer menu options such as Atlantic salmon with koji sauce, potato gnocchi with calamari and parmesan cream, crispy-skinned branzino, butternut squash soup, shrimp risotto, and their homemade bourbon pecan pie for dessert.
- The Christmas dinner is yet to be announced.
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36
Socarrat
Spanish Restaurant in ChelseaDo something different for Christmas in NYC this year and put a Spanish twist on your meal! You will love it!
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37
Dante and Dante West Village
Bar in Greenwich VillageOur Highlight
On Christmas, the original Dante location and the one in the West Village usually offer a prix fixe meal with classic foods that feature modern twists. Think of things like clothbound cheddar, chicory salad with apples, oven-roasted turkey with sage and apricot stuffing, and a wide variety of pies. Dante’s is consistently voted one of the world’s best bars, so be sure to order their famous pumpkin eggnog!
- This year’s Christmas dinner menu is yet to be announced.
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38
Rezdora
Italian Restaurant in Flatiron District
Are you a fan of Italian food? Do your holiday with Rezdora, a lauded pasta-centric spot in the Flatiron district. The menu offers prosciutto and burrata, turkey leg osso buco-style, cappelletto with chestnut and squash, as well as squash panna cotta.
- The menu for Christmas will be announced soon.
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39
Celestine
Italian Restaurant in Dumbo
If Spanish food isn’t your thing, how about a Mediterranean twist? Take your Christmas to new levels with Celestine and their classic family-style menu. Expect food options such as brussels sprouts, sourdough stuffing, chicories salad, heritage turkey roulade, apple galette, and much more.
Photo by Melissa Hom
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40
Olmsted
American Restaurant in Prospect HeightsDiscover Olmsted, a beloved neighborhood gem in Prospect Heights, led by acclaimed chef Greg Baxtrom of Patti Ann’s, 5 Acres, and Petite Patate fame. Their menu is a celebration of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, including those from their backyard garden and the nearby green market, paying homage to the visionary Frederick Law Olmsted, creator of Prospect Park. Begin in their cozy “Library” space, move through lush green walls to the garden oasis, and culminate your journey in the elegant dining room. Experience a unique culinary adventure with their tasting menu, pre-fixe options, and a la carte dishes—all in one remarkable place.
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41
Gotham Restaurant
American Restaurant in Greenwich VillageIn November 2021, Gotham Restaurant reopened after an 18-month closure during the pandemic with new owners, Bret Csencsitz and Kevin Conrad. They modernized the restaurant by changing its name from “Bar and Grill” to “Restaurant,” redesigned the interior with original architect James Biber, and appointed Ron Paprocki as the executive chef. Gotham aims to maintain its legacy while embracing sustainability and enriching the dining experience with books, music, and art. It aspires to be the most meaningful restaurant in New York, offering diverse arts and dining events, such as jazz nights and exclusive wine dinners. The restaurant continues to provide approachable service in an inspiring setting, just as it did when it first opened in 1984.
- On Christmas Eve, there will be a three-course menu for $150 p.p., and children under 10 pay $75.
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42
Cathedrale
French Restaurant in East VillageOur HighlightChef Jason Hall brings a unique twist to classic French-Mediterranean cuisine at Cathédrale, reminiscent of Southern France with hints of Italy, Spain, and Greece. Dine while witnessing the culinary artistry in the open-hearth kitchen, sipping cocktails in great company. Designed by the Rockwell Group, Cathédrale’s main dining room is a visual masterpiece with a 26-foot, triple-height ceiling adorned by a stunning wire mesh sculpture called Fillmore, by Edoardo Tresoldi. It evokes the grandeur of a domed ceiling and harmonizes with the restaurant’s architectural homage to the Fillmore East, once known as the “Church of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
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43
Oxalis
American Restaurant in Crown HeightsThis Michelin-star restaurant offers a unique dining experience that you’ll want to schedule your weekend around. The reason it’s one of my go-to places is that it’s minimalistic and stylish but adorned with plants and has a lovely outdoor patio. Yet, perhaps the best part is that each week, Oxalis presents a fresh, family-style menu featuring diverse regional cuisines, with options like eggs, starches, veggies, and a sweet dessert.
- On Christmas, there will be a special steakhouse-inspired Christmas roast for $165 p.p.
Note: December 31st will be the last service for Oxalis in its current space on 791 Washington Avenue as they prepare to move Oxalis to a new home in the neighborhood later next year.
My insider tip: Chinatown on Christmas
Did you know that Christmas and Christmas Eve are the busiest day of the year for most American Chinese restaurants? While a lot of New Yorkers struggle with the challenge of finding delicious restaurant options that are open on Christmas Chinatown is very much open on Christmas Day.
Chinatown on Christmas Day has been a tradition in New York City for many years.
So if you don’t really care much about a fancy Christmas dinner in New York City you should head to Chinatown and experience culture, great Chinese cuisine like dim sum and a different kind of Christmas dinner that is a tradition for many New Yorkers since the early 1900s.
My favorite Christmas restaurant NYC: Tiny’s And The Bar Upstairs
Stepping into this early 19th century Tribeca townhouse with its tin ceiling, a copper-topped bar, and a wood-burning fireplace everything feels like Christmas in here. It’s one of the best Christmas Restaurants NYC not only because Tiny’s & the Bar Upstairs feels very welcoming but also because the food is incredibly delicious. Tiny’s & The Bar Upstairs is a very unique spot with so much history and character (Address: 135 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013)
If you still couldn’t find your perfect restaurant for Christmas Day in New York City, check our article about the best restaurants & bars in NYC and maybe you happen to stumble across a spot that you like. Confirm with them via email or on their website if the restaurant is open on Christmas in NYC.
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