20+ Best Christmas Dinners in NYC 2025 (Rolf’s, Tavern)
Figuring out your holiday plans can be a real headache, but securing one of the best Christmas dinners in NYC doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the city is buzzing with spots ready to serve up a memorable holiday meal, so you can ditch the kitchen stress and just enjoy the festive vibes.
Heads up: Menus, hours, and prices can change. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s official website or give them a call for the most up-to-date info before you go.
Where to Find the Best Christmas Dinners in NYC
Wondering where to eat dinner on Christmas Day in NYC? You’ve got options, from cozy traditional meals to over-the-top themed experiences. Here are some of the best Christmas restaurants NYC has to offer for your holiday feast.
Rolf’s German Restaurant
When you think of Christmas in New York, you think of Rolf’s NYC. This place is legendary for its floor-to-ceiling holiday decorations that are completely over the top in the best way possible. It’s easily the most Christmassy place in New York City, making it a must for anyone wanting a festive meal.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: German
- Location: 281 3rd Ave, New York
- Contact: https://rolfsnyc.com | (212) 477-4750
- Pro Tip: You absolutely need to book reservations months in advance. Seriously, they fill up faster than a cab in the rain. If you can’t get a dinner spot, try going for a drink at the bar just to see the decor.
Balthazar
For a classic, chic New York Christmas, Balthazar NYC Christmas is the move. This SoHo brasserie feels like you’ve stepped into Paris, and their holiday menu is always on point. It’s perfect for a sophisticated Christmas dinner in New York 2025.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: French
- Location: 80 Spring St, New York
- Contact: https://balthazarny.com | (212) 965-1414
- Pro Tip: Dress to impress. The people-watching here is almost as good as the food. Their seafood tower is a great way to start the celebration.
Tavern on the Green
Located right in Central Park, Tavern on the Green is pure magic during the holidays. With roaring fireplaces and twinkling lights, it’s an iconic spot for a traditional Christmas dinner? – new york style, that is. It’s also one of the top Christmas restaurants in NYC kid friendly options.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: Central Park West & 67th Street, New York
- Contact: www.tavernonthegreen.com | (212) 877-8684 | reservations@tavernonthegreen.com
- Pro Tip: After dinner, take a stroll through Central Park to see the lights. It’s the perfect end to a festive evening.
Gramercy Tavern
A true NYC staple, Gramercy Tavern offers a warm, rustic atmosphere that feels like a big hug on a cold day. They offer a fixed-price holiday menu that showcases the best of seasonal American cooking.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 42 E 20th St, New York
- Contact: www.gramercytavern.com | (212) 477-0777
- Pro Tip: Reservations are a must and go live a few weeks in advance. Set a reminder on your phone so you don’t miss out.
The Rockaway Hotel + Spa
If you’re looking for a Christmas buffet NYC style, head to The Rockaway Hotel. They typically host a fantastic Christmas Day feast with everything from a raw bar to a carving station, making it a great choice for families and big groups.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American / Buffet
- Location: 108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr, Rockaway Park, NY 11694
- Contact: www.therockawayhotel.com | (718) 474-1216 | hello@therockawayhotel.com
- Pro Tip: Make a day of it. The hotel is right by the beach, and a winter walk along the shore is a pretty unique NYC experience.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
As far as themed restaurants in NYC go, Lillie’s is a Victorian dream, especially during the holidays when it’s decked out in festive garlands and lights. It’s a fun and more casual spot to grab a hearty Christmas meal.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American / British
- Location: 249 W 49th St, New York (other locations)
- Contact: www.lilliesnyc.com | (212) 957-4530 | info.timessquare@lilliesnyc.com
- Pro Tip: They have two locations (Times Square and Union Square), so check which one is closer to your other holiday activities.
Keens Steakhouse
Nothing says holiday indulgence like a classic steakhouse dinner. Keens has been around since 1885, and its old-school charm, complete with a massive collection of churchwarden pipes on the ceiling, is perfect for a cozy Christmas.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Location: 72 W 36th St, New York
- Contact: www.keens.com | (212) 947-3636 | banquets@keens.com
- Pro Tip: You have to try the mutton chop. It’s what they’re famous for and it’s big enough to share.
The Smith
With multiple locations across the city, The Smith is a reliable and lively choice for a Christmas dinner. Their menu has something for everyone, which makes it one of the more versatile Christmas restaurants NYC kid-friendly options.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 1150 Broadway, New York (other locations)
- Contact: https://thesmithrestaurant.com/location/nomad | 212-685-4500 | info@thesmithrestaurant.com
- Pro Tip: The photo booths at their locations are a fun pre-dinner activity, especially with the family.
Veselka
For a Christmas dinner that’s a little different, head to this 24/7 Ukrainian diner in the East Village. It’s a beloved neighborhood spot that serves up comfort food like borscht and pierogies, perfect for a cold winter night.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
- Location: 144 2nd Ave, New York
- Contact: https://veselka.com | (212) 228-9682
- Pro Tip: It’s super casual, so no need to dress up. It’s also open on Christmas Day, which is a lifesaver for last-minute plans.
Carbone
If you can snag a reservation, Carbone offers an unforgettable, theatrical Italian-American dining experience. It’s a splurge, but their tableside service and incredible food make for a truly special Christmas celebration.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 181 Thompson St, New York
- Contact: https://carbonenewyork.com | reservations@carbonenewyork.com
- Pro Tip: Reservations are notoriously hard to get. Try booking exactly 30 days out, right when they become available online.
Gage & Tollner
Step back in time at this beautifully restored Gilded Age restaurant in Brooklyn. Gage & Tollner brings back old-school glam with classic dishes and killer cocktails, perfect for a festive night out.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 372 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY
- Contact: www.gageandtollner.com | (347) 689-3677
- Pro Tip: Don’t skip dessert. Their Baked Alaska is a showstopper and the perfect celebratory treat.
Papillon Bistro & Bar
This Midtown spot goes all out for the holidays, transforming into a winter wonderland with thousands of flowers, butterflies, and festive decor. It’s one of the most Instagrammable themed restaurants NYC has for Christmas.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: French-American
- Location: 22 E 54th St, New York
- Contact: www.papillonbistro.com | (212) 754-9006 | info@papillonbistro.com
- Pro Tip: Ask for a table on the second floor for the best view of the decorations.
Dowling’s at The Carlyle
For an elegant, upscale experience, Dowling’s at The Carlyle on the Upper East Side is a perfect choice. The cozy, clubby room and sophisticated menu make for a very grown-up Christmas dinner. This is also a top contender for where is the best place to stay in New York City for Christmas, given the hotel’s festive atmosphere.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 35 E 76th St, New York
- Contact: www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-carlyle-new-york/dining/dowlings-at-the-carlyle | 212-570-7192 | dowlingsatthecarlyle@rosewoodhotels.com
- Pro Tip: After dinner, head to the hotel’s legendary Bemelmans Bar for a nightcap and live piano music.
Hav & Mar
Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s latest spot in Chelsea offers a vibrant seafood-focused menu with global influences. It’s a fresh, modern choice for those looking to skip the more traditional Christmas fare.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Ethiopian
- Location: Starrett-Lehigh Building, 245 11th Ave, New York
- Contact: www.havandmar.com | (212) 328-8041
- Pro Tip: The stunning decor and artwork celebrate Black culture and history, adding another layer to the dining experience.
The Tyger
This trendy Southeast Asian restaurant in SoHo is perfect for a non-traditional holiday meal. The lush, plant-filled dining room and flavorful dishes offer a vibrant escape from the winter chill.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
- Location: 1 Howard St, New York
- Contact: www.thetygernyc.com | 646-355-8693
- Pro Tip: Their cocktails are fantastic and creative. Try something with yuzu or chili to pair with your meal.
Temple Court
Located in the stunning, nine-story Victorian atrium of The Beekman Hotel, Temple Court is all about drama and history. Chef Tom Colicchio’s menu is equally impressive, making it a truly memorable spot for Christmas dinner.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel, by Hyatt, 5 Beekman St, New York
- Contact: www.templecourtnyc.com | 917-728-4685
- Pro Tip: Walk around the hotel lobby before or after your meal to take in the breathtaking architecture.
The Russian Tea Room
A New York institution since 1927, The Russian Tea Room is pure opulence. With its red leather banquettes and gilded decor, it’s a festive and historic place for a holiday meal, located just steps from Carnegie Hall.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Russian / Continental
- Location: 150 W 57th St, New York
- Contact: https://russiantearoomnyc.com | (212) 581-7100
- Pro Tip: While known for its tea service, the Christmas dinner menu is a decadent affair. Think caviar and blinis.
Jungsik
For a Michelin-starred Christmas, Jungsik in Tribeca offers a modern and artistic take on Korean cuisine. It’s an innovative dining experience for adventurous palates looking for something beyond the usual holiday roast.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Korean
- Location: Ny Mercantile Exchange Building Condo, 2 Harrison St, New York
- Contact: www.jungsik.com | (212) 219-0900 | info@jungsik.com
- Pro Tip: Opt for the wine pairing. Their sommelier does an incredible job of matching unique wines with the complex flavors of the food.
Serendipity3
Home of the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, this whimsical Upper East Side spot is one of the ultimate Christmas restaurants NYC kid-friendly location. The playful decor and massive desserts will make any kid (or adult) feel the holiday magic.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 225 E 60th St, New York (other locations)
- Contact: https://serendipity3.com | (212) 838-3531
- Pro Tip: You’ll need reservations, especially during the holidays. And yes, you have to get the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. It’s not optional.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Want a truly iconic, no-fuss NYC meal on Christmas? Head to Katz’s. This legendary deli is open on Christmas Day, serving up their famous pastrami sandwiches. It’s the opposite of fancy, but it’s delicious and deeply New York.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Deli
- Location: 205 E Houston St, New York
- Contact: https://katzsdelicatessen.com | (212) 254-2246
- Pro Tip: The line can be long, but it moves. Know your order when you get to the counter to keep things flowing.
Ci Siamo
This Italian restaurant from Danny Meyer’s hospitality group has a gorgeous dining room with open-fire cooking. It feels both grand and inviting, making it a top-tier choice for a special Christmas dinner New York 2025.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 440 W 33rd St, Suite 100, New York
- Contact: www.cisiamo.com | 212-219-6559 | info@cisiamo.com
- Pro Tip: The restaurant is located in Manhattan West, so it’s a convenient option if you’re attending an event at Madison Square Garden or seeing the nearby holiday displays.
Finding the best Christmas restaurants NYC has for you really depends on your vibe. But no matter what you choose, booking ahead is key. Planning what to do in New York in December 2025 should definitely include one of these amazing meals.
Planning Your Christmas Lights Tour?
After you’ve locked in your dinner plans and eaten your fill, you’ll probably want to walk it off by soaking in the city’s festive glow. The holiday lights are a huge part of the experience. To make sure you hit all the iconic spots and hidden gems, check out our guide on Where To Find The Best Christmas Light Displays In NYC for the ultimate holiday sightseeing plan.
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