Note from Antonina about 2024 Christmas Itineraries. Some of you have asked if I’ll be offering the custom 4-day itineraries that sold out last year. Sadly, I won’t have the time to make those this year (pregnancy, I tell you), so instead I’m offering the personalized 4 Day Itinerary I created for my own family and friends.
It’s hefty (30 pages to be exact) but it includes non-negotiable Christmas activities and a handful of iconic NYC landmarks you can’t afford to miss if you’re visiting NYC for four days (in addition to personalized restaurant recommendations).
It took me five years to perfect the guide but I think it will help you make the most use of your time in the city.
Due to limited time and energy (naps are a daily occurrence around here now!) I’m limiting the guide to 50 sales so that I can personally address snafus and answer questions. As of October 19, 2024 there are 18 guides remaining. You can find more information here.
Restaurants Open On Christmas Day in New York City
(Click Here for the Table of Contents)
Table of Contents. Where to Eat on Christmas Day in NYC
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Frosty’s
Website. Frosty’s
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 220 W 44th St, New York, NY
Frosty’s stands out as one of NYC’s most festive restaurants, featuring four bars across three floors. The decorations are unmatched, providing numerous photo opportunities. Admission is $20 per person, granting access to all floors. Additionally, Frosty’s is among the top restaurants open on Christmas Day in New York City.
Even better, though, Bacall’s (the host restaurant) is equally decked out and doesn’t require you to purchase a ticket. Admittedly, the food is a little bland, but the real reason to visit is for the decorations and drinks.
Bonus reading. Frosty’s makes an appearance on our list of best bars open on Christmas day in NYC!
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Website. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Neighborhood. Chinatown
Address.13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
As the oldest continuously running restaurant in Chinatown, visiting Nom Wah Tea Parlor for Christmas dinner has become a tradition for many New Yorkers. Specializing in Hong Kong-style dim sum, this the perfect spot for a fun holiday meal.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor is one of the most popular restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City but, unfortunately, doesn’t offer reservations for parties of less than 3. I suggest trying to gather a group of friends and booking online to avoid having to wait in line.
La Grande Boucherie
Website. La Grande Boucherie
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
La Grande Boucherie is a French restaurant that feels more like an elegant museum. The romantic interior could make anyone fall in love and make you feel like every day is a celebration when dining here. After you finish unwrapping gifts, treat your special someone to a nice steak dinner at one of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City.
4 Charles Prime Rib
Website. 4 Charles Prime Rib
Neighborhood. West Village
Address. 4 Charles St #3004, New York, NY 10014
4 Charles Prime Rib is a classy and intimate West Village steakhouse featuring crystal chandeliers, wood-lined walls, and leather seating. This the spot to bring. As one of the swankiest restaurants in New York City opens on Christmas day, reservations are going fast. I suggest booking ASAP to be assured you’ll have a seat at the table.
Tavern on the Green
One of two restaurants within the park, Tavern on the Green originally served as a sheep fold before being transformed into a restaurant in 1934. Despite its touristy reputation, the restaurant dishes out great food using local ingredients.
The stunning interior has come a long way from storing sheep. Tavern on the Green is particularly enchanting during the holidays when it gets decked out with legendary decor. Enjoying a meal here is a great addition for anyone looking for iconic things to do in New York City during Christmas.
Unpopular opinion. I’ll die on this hill. you haven’t really experienced NYC food culture until you’ve tried Frosty’s.
Local tip. Insider move. ask for the off-menu special.
The Blue Mezze Bar
Website. The Blue Mezze Bar
Neighborhood.Upper East Side
Address. 1480 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075
Mediterranean Christmas dinner in New York City? Where do I sign up? At The Blue Mezze Bar, that’s where. The restaurant is running an $89 per person prix fixe menu. You’ll be able to enjoy four courses of delicious Mediterranean cuisine at one of the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in New York City. Plus, the restaurant is perfectly cozy for a warm winter meal and offers a full bar for you and all your friends to enjoy.
The Pineapple Club
Website. The Pineapple Club
Neighborhood. East Village
Address. 509 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009
The Pineapple Club is a colorful and tropical-themed restaurant in the East Village and also one of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City. The Very Pineapple Christmas menu is available from December 20th to January 5th, meaning you can enjoy Christmas dinner in NYC for two weeks! Expect an eclectic cuisine with items like a seafood tower, oysters, and prime rib. And if you’re in an extra-celebratory mood, consider pre-ordering a bottle of champagne when you make your reservation.
Le Rivage
Website. Le Rivage
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address— 340 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Located in New York City’s historic Restaurant Row, Le Rivage has been a local favorite for nearly 40 years. The charming French eatery is also one of the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in New York City. The restaurant will be offering a four-course meal full of French classics and includes a glass of sparkling wine (for those of age, of course). If your reservation is in the evening, there will also be live music adding to the ambiance. Expect to pay $125 per person, and be sure to make your reservation in advance.
NYY Steak
Website. NYY Steak
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 159 W 48th St, New York, NY 10019
Few things say Christmas, like allowing yourself to indulge in a fancy meal, and I know the perfect place. NYY Steak is the New York Yankees Steakhouse and one of the best restaurants open on Christmas in New York City.
For starters, the joint feels elegant, and sitting in one of their comfy leather chairs will make you feel like you’re in the big leagues, too. Plus, for Christmas dinner, there will be a five-course tasting menu and live music. Expect to pay a pretty penny (173.86 per person after fees), but what are the holidays for if not an excuse to splurge a little?
The Sea Fire Grill
Website. The Sea Fire Grill
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 158 E 48th St, Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017
There are two options for Christmas dinner at The Sea Fire Grill. a prix fixe menu for $99 per person or an a la carte meal like a regular meal. Either option, though, will boast delicious seafood and an elegant place to enjoy it in.
One of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City, The Sea Fire Grill has a fireplace (talk about charming), and each prix fixe diner will get a cup of eggnog.
The Fulton
Website. The Fulton
Neighborhood. Financial District
Address. 89 South St, New York, NY 10038
If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City and a stunning view, you need a reservation at The Fulton. Located at the Seaport on Pier 17, you’ll enjoy dinner and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Each person can expect to pay $168 for a three-course meal. Since it’s located on the East River, it should come as no surprise that The Fulton has an emphasis on seafood. You can take a look at the menu here.
Sushi Yasaka
Website. Sushi Yasaka
Neighborhood. Upper West Side
Address. 251 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
Sushi Yasaka is my neighborhood sushi joint and, luckily, one of the restaurants open on Christmas in New York City. It’s a quiet, unassuming place that serves great food and is perfect for an easygoing Christmas dinner in NYC.
But just because it’s a local spot, don’t assume it’s not busy; it’s far from it. On a normal day, every table is filled, and I can only assume that’ll be the case on Christmas. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Marseille
Website. Marseille
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
The French sure know how to cook, which is why I can confidently say Marseille is one of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City. Even the interior of the restaurant is subtly decorated with poinsettias and garlands, adding a charming touch to the space. For only $80 per person, folks can enjoy a delicious three-course Christmas dinner in NYC. The same menu and deal can be had on Christmas Eve from 5-9 PM, as well as Christmas Day from 12-10 PM.
Blue Fin
Website. Blue Fin
Neighborhood. Midtown
Address. 1567 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
Who said restaurants open on Christmas in New York City have to serve traditional holiday food? Why not take a temporary reprieve from city life and head to the ocean? That’s where Blue Fin comes in, serving some of the most memorable seafood in the city with quality service to match.
Sushi, lobster, and oysters sure make for a unique Christmas dinner in NYC. Reservations are available through OpenTable but are going quickly, so be sure to book as soon as you can.
New York City Restaurants Open On Christmas Day (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in New York City.
- Frosty’s
- Blue Fin
- Nom Wah Tea Parlor
- Tavern on the Green
- La Grande Boucherie
- Serafina
- Sushi Yasaka
- Marseille
- The Blue Mezze Bar
- Pineapple Club NYC
- NYY Steak
- Sea Fire Grill
- Le Rivage
- 4 Charles Prime Rib
- Asset
- The Fulton
Map of the best Restaurants Open During Christmas in NYC
Helpful (Related) Links
Christmas in New York City. 20 MAGICAL Things to Do (And 5 to Avoid!)
Christmas Packing Tips. What to Wear in New York City in the Winter (+Packing List)
Where to Shop for Christmas— 10 Cheerful Christmas Markets in New York City (Worth the Visit!)
Christmas on a Budget. 20 Free Things to Do During Christmas in New York City
Where to Drink on Christmas— 10 Bars Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in New York City
The Best Christmas Trees in NYC. 15+ Captivating Christmas Trees in NYC and Where to Find Them
Where to Eat on Christmas. 20 Toothsome Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in New York City
Prettiest Window Displays. 10 Wonderful Window Displays in New York City (Local’s Guide)
Best Hot Cocoa. 20 Best Cups of Hot Chocolate in NYC (Local’s Guide)
The Best Decorations. New York Christmas Decorations. Where to Find Festive Decor in NYC
Best Things to Do in December. 17 Epic Things to Do in New York this December (Best Attractions!)
I hope this roundup of the best restaurants open on Christmas day in New York City was helpful.
Happy holidays, cheers!
While you’re here, you might enjoy my 17 Best New York City Cafes (Serving Great Coffee in NYC). one of my personal favorites to write.
I want to hear from you. What’s the most underrated food spot in NYC that you think more people need to know about?
Have you been here before?
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