The Best Christmas Bars and Restaurants in NYC (2025 Guide)
Let’s be real, nobody does Christmas like New York City. The entire city transforms into a real-life snow globe, and the festive spirit is absolutely contagious. If you really want to dive headfirst into the holiday magic, you have to visit one of the city’s over-the-top festive spots. This is your ultimate guide to the best Christmas bars and restaurants in NYC, from legendary, ornament-covered institutions to cozy, twinkling pubs. Get ready to eat, drink, and be incredibly merry.
Note: The holiday season is the busiest time of year in NYC. We strongly recommend checking official websites for the latest on hours and, most importantly, making reservations weeks (or even months!) in advance.
The Best Christmas-Themed Bars & Restaurants in NYC
The “More is More” Legends
When it comes to decorations, these places believe that too much is never enough.
Rolf’s German Restaurant
This is it. When you ask, “What is the best Christmas decoration restaurant in NYC?” the answer is always Rolf’s. It is an absolute explosion of Christmas, with every single inch of the ceiling and walls covered in thousands of ornaments, lights, and garlands. It’s something you have to see to believe.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: German
- Location: 281 3rd Ave, New York
- Contact: http://rolfsnyc.com | (212) 477-4750
- Pro Tip: Reservations are famously difficult to get. They open up in the fall and are booked almost instantly. If you can’t get a table, try going on a weekday afternoon just for a drink at the bar to see the decor.
Tavern on the Green
If you’re wondering, “What is the most Christmassy place in New York City?” outside of Rockefeller Center, it might just be this iconic spot. Nestled in Central Park, Tavern on the Green is pure holiday movie magic. With a massive, beautifully decorated tree in its courtyard and twinkling lights everywhere, it’s a stunning and classic NYC Christmas experience.
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisine: Contemporary American
- Location: Central Park, W 67th St, New York
- Contact: http://tavernonthegreen.com | (212) 877-8684 | reservations@tavernonthegreen.com
- Pro Tip: This is a fantastic spot for a special occasion or a traditional christmas dinner – new york. Book your reservation far in advance, especially for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Oscar Wilde
This place is already incredibly ornate year-round, with its Victorian-themed decor and the longest bar in NYC. But during Christmas, they take it to a whole new level with festive decorations that perfectly complement the glamorous, Gilded Age vibe.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Gastropub & Cocktails
- Location: 45 W 27th St, New York
- Contact: http://oscarwildenyc.com | (212) 213-3066
- Pro Tip: It gets very crowded. For the best photo ops without a huge crowd, try going on a weekday for a late lunch.
The Annual Pop-Up Sensations
These festive pop-ups take over existing bars for a limited time and are a huge holiday trend.
Miracle on 9th Street (and other locations)
Miracle is a global Christmas pop-up phenomenon that started right here in NYC. They transform a bar into a kitschy, retro Christmas wonderland with themed cocktails served in the cutest, most ridiculous mugs (like a T-Rex in a Santa hat).
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Themed Christmas Cocktails
- Location: The original is at The Cabinet (649 E 9th St), but they have multiple locations.
- Contact: http://miraclepopup.com | info@miraclepopup.com
- Pro Tip: This is a top pick on any best christmas themed bars & restaurants in nyc reddit thread. The lines, especially at the original East Village spot, can be very long. Go early on a weeknight.
Sippin’ Santa
The tropical tiki cousin to Miracle! Sippin’ Santa takes over a bar and gives it a “Christmas on the beach” theme. Think Santa in a Hawaiian shirt, cocktails with names like “Kris Kringle Kolada,” and tiki mugs wearing Santa hats.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Themed Tiki-Christmas Cocktails
- Location: Usually at Boilermaker (13 1st Ave), but check their website for the 2025 location.
- Contact: http://sippinsantapopup.com | info@miraclepopup.com
- Pro Tip: It’s a super fun and unique alternative to the traditional Christmas theme. Perfect for when you’re tired of the cold and just want to pretend you’re in Hawaii.
The Cozy & Classic Pubs
These spots feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
Pete’s Tavern
Opened in 1864, Pete’s Tavern is one of NYC’s oldest continuously operating bars and a strong contender for “What is the most iconic bar in New York?“. During the holidays, they string up a beautiful, classic display of lights over the bar, making the historic space feel extra cozy and festive.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Location: 129 East 18th Street at the corner of Irving Place
- Contact: http://petestavern.com | 212-473-7676 | manager@petestavern.com
- Pro Tip: The writer O. Henry supposedly wrote “The Gift of the Magi” in one of the front booths. It doesn’t get much more Christmassy than that.
McSorley’s Old Ale House
Another historic gem, McSorley’s, has been around since 1854. While their decorations are more subtle—just some simple garlands and lights—the feeling of being in a place with so much history, combined with a warm ale, is pure old-school holiday comfort.
- Price: $
- Cuisine: Ale & Simple Snacks
- Location: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
- Contact: https://mcsorleysoldalehouse.nyc | +1 212-473-9148 |info@mcsorleysoldalehouse.com
- Pro Tip: It’s cash only, and they only serve two kinds of beer: light or dark. You have to order them two at a time. It’s an experience!
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
A gorgeous Victorian-themed pub that feels like it was made for Christmas. Their ornate, antique-filled space gets a full holiday treatment, making it one of the most beautiful and festive bars in the city.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Pub Fare & Cocktails
- Location: 249 W 49th St (Times Square) & 13 E 17th St (Union Square)
- Contact: http://lilliesnyc.com |212-957-4530 | 212-337-1970 | info.timessquare@lilliesnyc.com
- Pro Tip: The Union Square location is perfect for a post-shopping drink after visiting the famous Union Square Holiday Market.
More Festive Favorites Across the City
SERRA by Birreria at Eataly Flatiron
Every season, the rooftop at Eataly transforms, and winter is the most magical. It becomes a cozy, rustic Italian alpine “greenhouse” with stunning decorations and a seasonal menu. It’s one of the best Christmas restaurants NYC has for a unique theme.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 200 5th Ave, New York (at Eataly Flatiron)
- Contact: http://eataly.com (212) 229-2560
- Pro Tip: The retractable roof means you can enjoy the rooftop vibe even when it’s cold. Reservations are a must.
The Dead Rabbit
This world-famous Irish pub goes all out for the holidays. They have multiple floors, each with its own cozy and festive decor, and they roll out a special menu of delicious holiday-themed cocktails.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Irish-American & Craft Cocktails
- Location: 30 Water St, New York
- Contact: http://thedeadrabbit.com | hello.nyc@thedeadrabbit.com
- Pro Tip: Their holiday pop-up, “The Irish Exit,” on the third floor is often less crowded than the main bar and just as festive.
Sunday in Brooklyn
Looking for Christmas-themed restaurants in Brooklyn? This is a top pick. This popular Williamsburg brunch spot gets a full festive makeover and offers special holiday-themed drinks and dishes. It’s cozy, cool, and delicious.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: American
- Location: 348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
- Contact: http://sundayinbrooklyn.com | (347) 222-6722
- Pro Tip: Their holiday cocktails are always super creative and tasty. It’s a great spot for a festive brunch with friends.
Rosemary’s
This charming West Village Italian spot feels like a warm country kitchen year-round, but it’s especially magical during the holidays. With its rustic decor and beautiful greenery, the simple addition of twinkling lights makes it feel incredibly festive.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 18 Greenwich Ave, New York (and other locations)
- Contact: http://rosemarysnyc.com
- Pro Tip: The rooftop garden is where they grow many of their own herbs. It’s a lovely, cozy spot that’s great for a date night.
Papillon Bistro & Bar
A beautiful, bi-level French bistro in Midtown that gets a stunning holiday transformation. They are known for their elegant decorations that create a sophisticated and festive dining atmosphere.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: French
- Location: 22 E 54th St, New York
- Contact: http://papillonbistro.com | (212) 754-9006 | info@papillonbistro.com
- Pro Tip: It’s a great choice for a holiday lunch after shopping on Fifth Avenue. A bit of an unsung hero compared to the more famous spots.
The Churchill Tavern
This cozy, British-style pub is a tribute to Winston Churchill and feels incredibly warm and inviting. During Christmas, they deck the halls with classic decorations, making it a perfect spot to grab a pint and a plate of fish and chips.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: British Pub Fare
- Location: 45 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016
- Contact: https://thechurchillnyc.com | (646) 476-8419
- Pro Tip: It’s a great, slightly more low-key option than some of the mega-decorated spots. It feels authentically festive.
The Plaza Hotel (Palm Court)
For a truly elegant and classic New York experience, afternoon tea at The Plaza’s Palm Court is unbeatable. The entire hotel is breathtakingly beautiful during the holidays, and the festive tea service is a splurge-worthy tradition.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Afternoon Tea / American
- Location: 768 5th Ave, New York
- Contact: http://theplazany.com | (212) 759-3000
- Pro Tip: This is one of the most Christmas restaurants NYC kid friendly options in a fancy setting. Their Eloise-themed tea is a dream for little ones.
Valerie
A stunning cocktail bar with a beautiful Art Deco design. During the holidays, they add gorgeous, festive decorations that enhance the already glamorous space. Their cocktails are creative and delicious.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Cocktails & Contemporary American
- Location: 45 W 45th St, New York
- Contact: https://www.valerienewyorkcity.com | (212) 302-3029 | contact@valerienewyorkcity.com
- Pro Tip: They have a gin-focused menu with dozens of options. It’s a great spot for gin lovers to try something new in a festive setting.
When people ask “What part of New York is the best for Christmas?” the honest answer is everywhere! But starting with one of these festive spots is a guaranteed way to get into the holiday spirit.
Keep the Winter Wonderland Tour Going!
After you’ve had your festive cocktail, why not explore more of what the city has to offer during its most magical season? Check out our guide to Things To Do In New York City During The Winter.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, details such as operating hours, prices, and reservation policies are subject to change. Please verify all information with the official venues or organizers before making any plans.
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