Christmas Day in New York City is a magical experience, with the bright lights, festive atmosphere, and iconic landmarks taking on an extra special charm. However, with many restaurants and eateries closed for the holiday, finding a great place to eat on Christmas Day can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the options and find the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.
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New York City has plenty of restaurants that remain open on Christmas Day, offering a range of cuisines and dining experiences to suit every taste and budget. From traditional holiday fare to international flavors, and from casual diners to upscale eateries, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the best places to eat in New York on Christmas Day, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and bars that are open and ready to welcome you.
What to Expect
In this guide, you’ll find a curated selection of restaurants that are open on Christmas Day, along with their holiday hours, menu highlights, and reservation information. We’ll also provide insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your dining experience, from booking strategies to special deals and promotions. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, this guide is your ultimate resource for finding the perfect place to eat on Christmas Day in New York.
Where to Eat in New York on Christmas Day
New York City is a bustling metropolis that never sleeps, and that includes on Christmas Day. While many restaurants may be closed, there are still plenty of options for a delicious holiday meal. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to eat in New York on Christmas Day, from traditional holiday fare to international cuisine and everything in between.
Traditional Holiday Fare
If you’re looking for a classic Christmas meal, complete with turkey, mashed potatoes, and all the trimmings, these restaurants have got you covered:
- Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar: This upscale restaurant in Midtown offers a festive holiday menu featuring roasted turkey, prime rib, and all the fixings.
- The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court: Enjoy a luxurious Christmas Day brunch in the iconic Palm Court, complete with a holiday buffet and live music.
- The Russian Tea Room: This beloved institution in Midtown offers a special Christmas menu featuring traditional dishes like borscht, beef stroganoff, and blini.
International Cuisine
If you’re looking for something a little different from traditional holiday fare, these international restaurants are open on Christmas Day and offer a variety of cuisines: (See Also: Where To Eat In Las Vegas Airport)
- Katz’s Delicatessen: This classic Jewish deli on the Lower East Side is open 24/7, including Christmas Day, and serves up classic dishes like pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup.
- Jing Fong: For a taste of China on Christmas Day, head to Jing Fong in Chinatown, which offers a dim sum brunch and a la carte menu.
- Carmine’s: This family-style Italian restaurant has several locations throughout the city and offers a special Christmas menu featuring dishes like lasagna and chicken parmesan.
Breakfast and Brunch Options
If you’re looking for a holiday breakfast or brunch, these restaurants are open on Christmas Day and offer a variety of options:
- Sarabeth’s: This popular breakfast spot has several locations throughout the city and offers a special holiday menu featuring dishes like eggs benedict and pancakes.
- Russ & Daughters Cafe: This Jewish deli and appetizing shop on the Lower East Side offers a special Christmas brunch menu featuring dishes like bagels with lox and knishes.
- Balthazar: This SoHo institution offers a festive holiday brunch menu featuring dishes like eggs florentine and quiche lorraine.
Dinner Options
If you’re looking for a special holiday dinner, these restaurants are open on Christmas Day and offer a variety of options:
- Carbone: This retro Italian-American restaurant in Greenwich Village offers a special Christmas menu featuring dishes like veal parmesan and lobster fra diavolo.
- L’Artusi: This two-Michelin-starred Italian restaurant in Chelsea offers a special Christmas menu featuring dishes like pasta with truffles and roasted duck.
- The NoMad: This upscale restaurant in the Flatiron District offers a special Christmas menu featuring dishes like roasted turkey and beef Wellington.
Special Mentions
These restaurants may not be open for traditional Christmas meals, but they’re still worth considering for a holiday treat:
- Serendipity 3: This iconic dessert shop on the Upper East Side is open on Christmas Day and offers a variety of sweet treats, including their famous frozen hot chocolate.
- Ladurée: This French bakery has several locations throughout the city and offers a variety of holiday treats, including macarons and madeleines.
- Eileen’s Special Cheesecake: This beloved bakery in the Lower East Side offers a variety of holiday cheesecakes and other sweet treats.
Tips and Reservations
Before heading out to eat on Christmas Day, be sure to:
- Make a reservation: Many restaurants will be busy on Christmas Day, so be sure to book a table in advance to avoid waiting.
- Check hours: While many restaurants will be open on Christmas Day, hours may be limited or vary from their usual schedule.
- Plan ahead: Consider ordering takeout or delivery from your favorite restaurant if they’re not open for dine-in service.
Recap
In conclusion, there are plenty of options for dining out on Christmas Day in New York City. From traditional holiday fare to international cuisine and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to make a reservation, check hours, and plan ahead to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable holiday meal. (See Also: Where To Eat In Cary Nc)
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar | American | Midtown |
| The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court | American | Midtown |
| The Russian Tea Room | Russian | Midtown |
| Katz’s Delicatessen | Jewish Deli | Lower East Side |
| Jing Fong | Chinese | Chinatown |
| Carmine’s | Italian | Multiple Locations |
| Sarabeth’s | American | Multiple Locations |
| Russ & Daughters Cafe | Jewish Deli | Lower East Side |
| Balthazar | French | SoHo |
| Carbone | Italian-American | Greenwich Village |
| L’Artusi | Italian | Chelsea |
| The NoMad | American | Flatiron District |
| Serendipity 3 | Dessert | Upper East Side |
| Ladurée | Dessert | Multiple Locations |
| Eileen’s Special Cheesecake | Dessert | Lower East Side |
This table provides a summary of the restaurants mentioned in this article, including their cuisine, location, and a brief description.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in New York on Christmas Day
Are restaurants open on Christmas Day in New York City?
Yes, many restaurants in New York City are open on Christmas Day, although hours may be limited and some may have special holiday menus. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their hours and availability.
Do I need reservations for Christmas Day dining in New York City?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to make reservations well in advance for Christmas Day dining in New York City, especially for popular restaurants. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus and seatings, and reservations can fill up quickly.
What types of cuisine are available on Christmas Day in New York City?
New York City offers a diverse range of cuisines on Christmas Day, from traditional American and Italian to Chinese, Jewish deli, and more. You can find everything from festive holiday feasts to casual, laid-back meals. (See Also: Where To Eat In Sm City Iloilo)
Are there any budget-friendly options for Christmas Day dining in New York City?
Yes, there are many budget-friendly options for Christmas Day dining in New York City. Consider diners, cafes, or ethnic eateries, which often offer affordable and delicious meals. You can also look for special holiday deals or promotions at mid-range restaurants.
Can I get takeout or delivery on Christmas Day in New York City?
Yes, many restaurants in New York City offer takeout or delivery on Christmas Day, although options may be limited. You can check with your favorite restaurants or use food delivery apps like Grubhub, UberEats, or DoorDash to see what options are available.
