There’s nothing quite like New York during the holidays; snowy walks in Central Park, ice skating at Rockefeller, and Christmas markets galore. The city’s décor is in a league of its own, and these nine restaurants are the perfect places to get festive and celebrate Christmas in New York City.

 

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Originally built in 1870 as a house for sheep, Tavern on the Green was transformed into the iconic restaurant it is today in 1934. Nestled inside Central Park, it only makes sense that the menu features the freshest locally sourced seasonal ingredients around. Visit towards the end of the year for an extra special treat, as the Tavern hosts an annual tree lighting ceremony for its 20-foot tree, decked out with over 2,000 ornaments and 10,000 lights. The décor simply emanates holiday cheer, as you look upon the winter wonderland that is Central Park in December.

Rolf’s is a German restaurant very well-known for its over the top Christmas display, meticulously designed by 5 dedicated artists. There are over 200,000 lights and countless vintage ornaments creating a very cozy atmosphere you won’t want to leave. Order a glass of spiced eggnog and marvel at holiday décor like you’ve never seen.

La Grande Boucherie is a French-inspired brasserie with Belle Epoque architecture and an incredible 40-foot glass ceiling. During the holidays, there’s a special Christmas menu serving French bistro classics, and a huge, beautifully decorated tree in the entryway for all to enjoy.

Papillon Bistro & Bar serves French cuisine and handcrafted cocktails from its bar and terrace on the first floor, with fine dining options on the second floor of the building. During the holidays, it’s a certified Christmas destination to behold. Garland and baubles hang from the ceiling, and there isn’t an inch of space that the soft glow of tree lights can’t reach. The overall effect is a magical one you won’t want to miss.

Housed inside the former Bureau of Prohibition, the Oscar Wilde restaurant is an homage to the life of its namesake. The interior is full of fascinating antiques collected from all around the world, as well as the longest bar in all of NYC. While the space has cool décor all year round, Christmas time is when it really shines. Wreaths, reindeer, and bows galore make Oscar Wilde absolutely burst with holiday cheer.

Translating to “greenhouse” in Italian, SERRA brings the Italian countryside right to New York with authentic family-style dishes in a beautiful terrace restaurant. Come December, the place turns into a wonderful winter wonderland with snow-dusted trees and twinkling lights out of a Christmas fairytale.

Opened in 1864, Pete’s Tavern is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in New York City – it was even a speakeasy during prohibition. The historic institution has been carefully preserved to look exactly as it always has, impressively featuring the original tiled floor. When the holidays roll around, the restaurant gets decked out in red twinkly lights and festive garland for a warm Christmas-y vibe you’re sure to love.

White Horse Tavern opened in 1880 and thus holds the title of second oldest bar in NYC. This comes with quite an interesting past, as it was famously beloved by many artists throughout the years, like James Baldwin, Bob Dylan, and Dylan Thomas (who is said to have had his very last drink here). Upscale pub food is served at the bar top sporting original wood – immaculately preserved, of course. In the winter months, White Horse Tavern gets all lit up for the holidays with colorful ornaments hanging from the ceiling and a distinct Christmas cheer in the air.

Traditional Parisian brasserie Balthazar has been an undeniably iconic New York institution since 1997. Red leather booths, high ceilings, and mirrors galore make up this casual bistro serving up French classics. The food is delectable (steak frites is a must-order) but you come to Balthazar to be at Balthazar. During the holiday season, the restaurant goes all out on classic decorations complete with a big, brightly lit tree to get you in the Christmas spirit as you dine.