17 Magical Christmas Restaurants in NYC That Feel Like Winter Wonderlands

NYC’s Christmas restaurants turn regular dining into an unforgettable holiday experience. Getting a table at these festive spots feels like hitting the jackpot – especially at Rolf’s German Restaurant. This iconic holiday staple is maybe the most famous Christmas spot in the city. During Christmas, the lines wrap around the block, and you need to book weeks or even months ahead.

The city showcases some truly spectacular Christmas-decorated restaurants. Papillon Bistro & Bar dazzles visitors with its striking holiday decorations. You’ll find it just steps away from the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Oscar Wilde stands out with New York City’s longest bar, and Frosty’s brings back its adults-only Christmas bar experience every holiday season. Pete’s Tavern, a historic Gramercy establishment that’s served guests for over a century, decks itself out in full Christmas splendor.

Want to find the best places to eat, drink, and celebrate this holiday season? This piece highlights 17 festive restaurants that combine amazing food with magical Christmas atmosphere. You’ll discover everything from cozy neighborhood spots to spectacular winter wonderlands – perfect for your holiday celebrations.

Rolf’s decor and ambiance

Walking into Rolf’s during the holidays feels like stepping into a Christmas fairytale. Thousands of ornaments, twinkling lights, and vintage decorations hide the ceiling just inches above your head. Victorian-style dolls, antique baubles, and glittering icicles create an impressive holiday canopy throughout the space.

The restaurant keeps its decorations up from late September through May, making it a Christmas destination year-round. The magic peaks in December as the decorations blend with the city’s natural holiday spirit.

Rolf’s stands out from other Christmas-themed NYC restaurants because of its incredible ornament density. They don’t just hang a few garlands – they create a magical holiday forest. Every inch gets attention, from German figurines to Victorian Christmas cards nestled between evergreen branches.

The lighting sets the perfect mood. Soft, golden bulbs cast a warm glow everywhere, creating perfect spots for holiday photos that’ll light up your Instagram. The bar area glows extra warm, making your wait for a table much cozier.

Rolf’s food and drinks

The food matches the impressive decor with authentic German cuisine. The menu features hearty classics like schnitzel, sauerbraten, and various wursts. You’ll get generous portions that hit the spot after a long day of holiday shopping.

Customers love the potato pancakes with applesauce and the jagerschnitzel topped with mushroom sauce. The experience gets better with German beers or seasonal cocktails.

Holiday season brings special winter warmers including:

• Hot mulled wine (Glühwein)
• Spiced eggnog with optional spirits
• Winter-themed cocktails like the Krampus Punch
• German holiday beers

The bartenders pour generous drinks that go great with the rich food and festive atmosphere. A drink at the bar gives you a taste of the magic, even without a dinner reservation.

Rolf’s pricing and reservations

Here’s the catch – getting into this Christmas wonderland takes work. They take reservations by phone only, and December tables need booking months ahead. Many regulars book next year’s holiday table right after finishing their meal.

The bar works on first-come, first-served basis. Peak season waits can stretch past two hours. Your best shot at a shorter wait is arriving right at opening (4 pm weekdays, 1 pm weekends).

Prices match the unique experience – entrees run $28-38, with some specialty items costing more. Cocktails cost $15-18, a bit above typical NYC prices but fair given the magical setting.

December brings a $50 per-person minimum at dinner – something to know before you visit. Most people think the splurge makes sense given the photos and memories you’ll take home from this unique spot.

The crowds and wait times might seem daunting, but most visitors say it’s worth it. The mix of traditional German food and impressive Christmas decor creates something you won’t find anywhere else in the city. Unlike temporary holiday pop-ups, Rolf’s has managed to keep its Christmas traditions alive for decades, creating a genuine rather than commercial feel.

Lillie’s decor and ambiance

Authentic Victorian-era artifacts set Lillie’s apart from other NYC Christmas restaurants. The restaurant houses genuine antiques from a Belfast mansion and England’s Great Exhibition of the 1800s. This collection goes beyond holiday decorations – it’s museum quality with a festive touch.

Christmas season turns Lillie’s into a magical Victorian holiday paradise. Garlands adorn the mahogany bar while tiny lights make the stained glass windows glow. The 19th-century woodwork creates a cozy backdrop that enhances seasonal decorations.

Historical accuracy makes Lillie’s truly special. Crystal chandeliers cast soft light on red velvet seats. Century-old portraits and mirrors line the walls, silent witnesses to countless celebrations. You might even spot staff in period-inspired clothes, which adds to the charm.

The Times Square spot gives you a peaceful break from holiday crowds. The Union Square location feels more intimate and has its own collection of Victorian treasures.

Lillie’s food and drinks

British pub influences mix with American comfort food on Lillie’s menu. Holiday season brings special festive dishes alongside regular items:

• Traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings
• Beef Wellington with seasonal vegetables
• Holiday spice-infused cocktails and mulled wine

The bar serves craft beers and creative cocktails. Holiday drinks feature cinnamon-spiced hot toddies and cranberry champagne cocktails. They also make their own hot chocolate topped with candy canes.

The kitchen does pub classics right. Their fish and chips come with an extra-crispy beer batter. The shepherd’s pie has lamb so tender it falls apart. The sticky toffee pudding ends your holiday meal perfectly.

Sunday brunch draws crowds with classic eggs Benedict and creative new dishes. Food arrives on vintage-style plates that match the Victorian setting.

Lillie’s pricing and reservations

Lillie’s prices beat many other NYC Christmas restaurants. Main dishes cost $18-29, appetizers run $10-16. Cocktails average $14-16, and beer starts at $8.

You can book both locations through their website or major booking platforms. Holiday season fills up fast, so book 2-3 weeks ahead. The Times Square spot books up quicker because it’s near theaters and holiday spots.

Bar areas welcome walk-ins. Your best chance at getting a spot without booking is right when they open. Tuesday and Wednesday nights usually have more space than weekends.

Holiday packages sometimes include set menus and guaranteed seating. Groups celebrating at peak times find these packages worth the money.

Both spots stay open Monday through Friday 11am to 2am, and weekends 10am to 2am. These hours work great for after-theater meals or late-night holiday gatherings.

Lillie’s stands out with its real Victorian atmosphere, good food, and fair prices. It gives you a different but equally festive option compared to other Christmas spots in the city.

Papillon decor and ambiance

The bistro’s jaw-dropping transformation begins mid-November. Guests walk into an intricately decorated staircase covered in jolly Christmas ornaments. Giant floating teddy bears fill the two-story venue. Hundreds of string lights, fake snow, and nutcrackers create a festive mood throughout the space.

Creative and colorful decorations greet you at every turn as you explore deeper inside. Warm lighting sets the perfect backdrop that makes this place a favorite spot for Instagram-worthy Christmas pictures.

The space inside feels surprisingly large despite its modest entrance. Seating options include a lively bar section, upstairs dining room, and a sidewalk café for warmer days. Papillon’s “old world” decor maintains its vintage charm year-round. Christmas season amplifies this classic setting into pure holiday magic.

The place buzzes with energy, especially during peak holiday times. Photo-seeking guests create a lively atmosphere that captures New York’s festive spirit perfectly.

Papillon food and drinks

The impressive decor pairs with a delicious mix of traditional holiday favorites and creative seasonal dishes. Their bistro classics menu features these standout options:

• PAPILLON BURGER – Bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles & mayo on brioche
• PAN-SEARED SALMON – Served with saffron risotto, zucchini & beurre blanc
• NY STRIP STEAK – 12 oz strip with French fries, house butter & peppercorn sauce
• RIGATONI ALLA VODKA – Tomato cream sauce, shrimp, basil & parmesan

Regular guests rave about the tuna tartare, steak, and grilled branzino. The mocktails get equally positive reviews. Dessert lovers can choose from New York cheesecake, chocolate cake, and apple crumb cake.

The holiday season brings a special menu that adds festive touches to regular offerings. The bar mixes craft cocktails and runs happy hour Monday through Friday from 3-5 PM and all day Saturday.

Papillon pricing and reservations

The bistro welcomes guests seven days a week:

• Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Dinner: 3:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Bar: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM

Holiday visitors should note that Papillon does not accept reservations from mid-November through December due to overwhelming crowds. The restaurant only takes walk-ins during this time. This policy is different from their normal operations when you can book through their website or phone.

Main dishes range from moderate to upscale prices, with items like the NY Strip Steak at premium rates. Some bills might include an automatic 20% gratuity.

Weekday lunch or early weekday dinner offers the best experience with smaller crowds. Weekend evenings and peak holiday times draw the most visitors looking for perfect Christmas photos.

Guests on the “My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour” can enjoy special holiday menu discounts at Papillon. Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

Papillon’s mix of stunning decorations, delicious food, and central location makes it one of NYC’s most magical Christmas restaurants. This place creates unforgettable holiday memories.

Oscar Wilde decor and ambiance

Oscar Wilde’s Christmas makeover is simply breathtaking. The space comes alive with holiday spirit – twinkling lights, giant ornaments, and impressive garlands cover almost everything. The rich Victorian interior becomes a visual feast during the holiday season.

The restaurant proudly displays genuine Victorian pieces like a Gothic lamp and Hope Castle paneling throughout the year. Visitors can’t help but notice the 26 antique clocks scattered around, each stopped at 1:50 – marking Oscar Wilde’s time of death. These historical touches create a perfect backdrop that enhances the Christmas magic.

The restaurant stands out from other festive venues because of its abundant holiday decorations. One guest put it perfectly: “The whole place was covered head-to-toe in holiday decor and honestly felt like stepping into a Christmas movie”. Another visitor said it had “the most Christmassy atmosphere I’ve ever stepped into”.

This cozy Victorian bistro draws both photographers and holiday enthusiasts. People call it one of NYC’s best spots to take holiday photos, complete with teddy bears hanging from above and festive bunnies decorating the walls.

Oscar Wilde food and drinks

The restaurant pairs its amazing atmosphere with a delightful mix of English and American dishes. The menu balances comfort food with upscale options.

Popular dishes include:

• Wagyu beef sliders ($23) – juicy and flavorful
• Truffle arancini ($19) – rich with authentic truffle flavor
• Shepherd’s pie ($29) – a comforting classic
• Grilled NY strip ($42) – consistently well-prepared

Vegetarians love the buffalo cauliflower, which guests describe as “the best I’ve ever had”. The truffle gnocchi gets frequent mentions in reviews as “rich, silky, and dreamy”.

Holiday visitors can enjoy special festive cocktails. Their Grinch-inspired drink combines vodka, vanilla liqueur, pandan, and fresh lime. The Constance ($18) and The Carnation ($19) are other guest favorites.

Dessert lovers will enjoy the tiramisu and chocolate mousse cake (both $15). Weekend visitors can experience afternoon tea service in the Temptation Room on Saturdays and Sundays.

Oscar Wilde pricing and reservations

The restaurant welcomes guests seven days a week:

• Monday-Wednesday: 1PM-1AM
• Thursday-Friday: 1PM-2AM
• Saturday: 11AM-2AM
• Sunday: 11AM-1AM

Different menus are available throughout the day:

• Afternoon lunch: Monday-Friday 1PM-4PM
• Dinner: Daily 4PM-11PM
• Brunch: Saturday-Sunday 11AM-3PM
• Late night: Thursday-Saturday 11PM-1AM

You’ll need reservations during the Christmas season. While you can book tables through their website, the bar remains first-come, first-served. Christmas bookings fill up fast – spots often disappear as soon as they’re released 30 days ahead.

Main dishes cost between $19-42, with shepherd’s pie at $29 and NY strip steak at $42. Cocktail prices range from $18-19, typical for upscale Manhattan spots.

Holiday crowds pack the restaurant. Early planning makes a big difference. Bar spots are easier to get if you arrive right when they open.

Oscar Wilde delivers an unforgettable Christmas experience. Great food, festive drinks, and stunning decorations transport you to a Victorian holiday celebration in modern Manhattan.

Frosty’s decor and ambiance

Stepping into Frosty’s is like walking onto a Christmas movie set designed by someone who had too much spiked eggnog – that’s what makes it special. Tinsel, candy canes, and kitschy holiday decorations cover almost every inch of the walls. You’ll spot oversized ornaments hanging from the ceiling and inflatable holiday characters tucked into corners.

Frosty’s stands out from other Christmas restaurants in NYC because it goes all out with its decorations. The place doesn’t try to be elegant. Instead, it packs in festive fun everywhere you look. Some areas show vintage Christmas movies on the walls while the music switches between classic carols and modern holiday hits.

The space glows with thousands of red and green string lights that create a warm, festive atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of spots perfect for photos, with giant presents and sleighs. Sometimes, actors dressed as Santa and other holiday characters mingle with guests.

The bar adds something new each year. They had “naughty” and “nice” sections with matching decorations last year. The place stays buzzing with energy, and holiday karaoke nights really get the crowd going.

Frosty’s food and drinks

Drinks take center stage at this pop-up bar. The cocktails come in fun holiday containers that match the wild decorations:

• Christmapolitan – Vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce
• Snowball Old Fashioned – Butterscotch rye, spiced brown sugar, wormwood bitters
• Bad Santa – Hot chocolate with cinnamon whiskey, served in Santa mugs
• Jingle Balls Nog – Their boozy take on traditional eggnog

The food menu keeps things simple but pairs well with the drinks. You’ll find fancy bar snacks with holiday twists – pretzel bites dusted with candy cane, cranberry-bacon sliders, and spiced holiday popcorn mixes.

Most people come here for the drinks and vibe rather than the food. The small bites are good enough to keep you going while you enjoy your cocktails. Sweet lovers can try the boozy candy cane brownie bites and gingerbread-inspired treats.

Frosty’s pricing and reservations

This popular NYC spot works on a first-come, first-served basis. You might have to wait in line, especially during December weekends. The bar opens from late November through early January.

Hours of operation: Monday-Thursday: 4pm-12am Friday: 4pm-2am Saturday: 12pm-2am Sunday: 12pm-10pm

Cocktail prices match what you’d expect for NYC specialty drinks, running $14-18 each. They offer a “Nice List” happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4-6pm with select cocktails at $10.

Groups of 8 or more can get package deals that include reserved space and drink tickets. These start at $75 per person and need booking at least two weeks ahead on their website.

Here’s a tip – the bar gets packed as Christmas gets closer. Your best bet to avoid long waits is to show up right when they open. Frosty’s delivers exactly what it promises: a grown-up version of childhood Christmas excitement with plenty of holiday spirit in your glass.

Loreley decor and ambiance

The beer garden becomes a heated winter wonderland that engages both locals and visitors from mid-November through early January. Loreley brings a more relaxed approach to holiday celebrations, unlike other Christmas restaurants NYC with their elaborate Victorian themes.

A heated outdoor patio adorned with twinkling Christmas lights welcomes guests in the back. The indoor space glows with festive holiday décor. Snow globe displays, gingerbread houses, reindeer, a life-sized Santa Claus, and Christmas trees fill the room. The ceiling sparkles with thousands of ornaments, garlands, bows, crystal icicles, and snowflakes.

Owner Doug Jacobson started a mission to recreate Christmas magic for adults. “The holiday season is supposed to be such a magical time for children,” Jacobson explains. “I feel like, as adults, we kind of forget about it… We want to enjoy it ourselves, too”.

The casual atmosphere draws people seeking festive cheer without the formality of other Christmas themed restaurants NYC. Heat lamps keep guests comfortable outdoors even during cold weather. Restaurant manager Kaliope Kavalos notes, “We have people sitting outside when it’s 20 degrees”.

Loreley food and drinks

The seasonal holiday beverage selection includes:

• Bourbon Hot Chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows
• Spiked Egg Nog with rum, whipped cream, and caramel
• Famous Mulled Wine (Glühwein), a German Christmas market staple
• Peppermint Nitro Martini with candy cane garnish
• Hot Toddies and Winter Sangria

Non-alcoholic options shine too. The hot chocolate and eggnog receive stellar reviews. One guest remarked, “I haven’t found a better spot in New York City”.

German-inspired beer garden classics dominate the food menu. Popular dishes include giant pretzels with warm beer cheese dip, grilled sausage platters, schnitzel, and cheese spaetzle. The freshly baked cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing are a brunch favorite, made from scratch and worth the wait.

Loreley pricing and reservations

Daily operating hours vary:

• Weekdays (Monday-Thursday): 5pm until late
• Weekends (Friday-Sunday): 12pm until late
• Brunch served Saturday & Sunday: 12pm-4pm

Loreley welcomes guests on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day from noon till 11 p.m. Special events include “Ugly Sweater Parties” during the first three Wednesdays in December and a New Year’s Eve masquerade party.

Guests can make reservations through the website, though walk-ins are welcome. Brunch reservations come at no cost but are recommended, especially for groups of six or more. The heated outdoor space, known as “the biggest outdoor beer garden in the city”, offers ample seating but fills up during peak holiday times.

Loreley maintains a FREE Admission, NO Cover policy throughout their winter wonderland season. This makes it an affordable choice among the city’s festive Christmas restaurants.

Ophelia decor and ambiance

The space was designed to look like a jewelry box that lights up the sky, and December makes it even more magical. Crystal garlands and sparkling snowflakes dangle from the 17-foot ceiling, creating a winter wonderland. The 360° greenhouse terrace shows off unobstructed views of midtown Manhattan and the East River.

White sheepskin throws drape over velvet furniture, and golden candelabras add warmth to tables and walls. The lounge’s blue colors create a perfect canvas for holiday decorations. You’ll find all the festive charm here without any tacky decorations.

Guests often say it feels like stepping into a beautiful snow globe above NYC’s skyline. Couples and date night seekers love its quiet, intimate atmosphere away from Midtown’s busy streets.

Ophelia food and drinks

Chef Antelmo Ambrosio’s menu raises dining standards by using ingredients from local and international artisans. The small plates menu features these standouts:

• Duck confit spring rolls
• Brie brûlée
• Crispy pommes & caviar bites
• Wagyu beef tartare

Mixologist Amir Babayoff creates signature drinks like the Polaris Express with Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva rum, cinnamon, homemade horchata, and vanilla. The X Factor is another guest favorite that blends Glenmorangie single malt, sherry, carrot eau de vie, and spiced pear liqueur.

Ophelia pricing and reservations

The bar welcomes guests seven days a week:

• Monday-Wednesday: 5pm-11pm
• Thursday-Saturday: 5pm-2am
• Sunday: 5pm-11pm

Happy hour runs weekdays from 5-7pm with $13 classic cocktails, $10 prosecco, $10 wine, $7 beer, and $13 bites. You should book ahead for holiday visits since space fills up quickly.

The venue’s rich history includes regular visits from Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, and Frank Zappa. Condé Nast Traveler named it among “The 10 Best Rooftop Bars in the U.S.”. Its spot near Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building makes holiday sightseeing convenient.

Comparison Table

Restaurant Name	Location/Setting	Notable Decor Features	Signature Holiday Offerings	Price Range	Reservation Policy	Operating Hours
Rolf’s German Restaurant	East Side (22nd St & 3rd Ave)	Thousands of ornaments, vintage decorations, Victorian dolls	Glühwein, spiced eggnog, Krampus Punch	Entrees $28-38, Cocktails $15-18	Reservations by phone required several months ahead	4pm weekdays, 1pm weekends
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment	Times Square & Union Square	Victorian antiques, crystal chandeliers, garlands	Traditional turkey dinner, mulled wine, holiday cocktails	Mains $18-29, Cocktails $14-16	Book online 2-3 weeks ahead	Mon-Fri 11am-2am, Weekends 10am-2am
Papillon Bistro & Bar	Midtown Manhattan	Giant teddy bears, string lights, fake snow, nutcrackers	Seasonal holiday menu items	Moderate to upscale pricing	No holiday season reservations	11:30am-10:30pm daily
Oscar Wilde	Flatiron District	NYC’s longest bar (118.5 ft), Victorian decor, 26 antique clocks	Grinch-themed cocktails, festive signature drinks	Mains $19-42, Cocktails $18-19	Book online 30 days ahead	Mon-Wed 1pm-1am, Thu-Fri 1pm-2am
Frosty’s Christmas Pop-Up Bar	Manhattan locations	Tinsel, candy canes, inflatable characters, photo setups	Christmapolitan, Snowball Old Fashioned, Bad Santa	Cocktails $14-18	Walk-ins welcome	Mon-Thu 4pm-12am, Fri 4pm-2am
Loreley Beer Garden	Lower East Side	Heated outdoor patio, snow globes, life-sized Santa	Mulled wine, bourbon hot chocolate, spiked eggnog	Not mentioned	Online booking available	Weekdays 5pm-late, Weekends 12pm-late
Ophelia Rooftop Bar	26th floor, Beekman Tower	Crystal garlands, snowflakes, 360° views	Polaris Express cocktail, X Factor cocktail	Happy hour cocktails $13	Reservations highly recommended	Mon-Wed & Sun 5pm-11pm, Thu-Sat 5pm-2am

Key Takeaways

Make visiting NYC’s most magical Christmas restaurants even more enchanting by booking a charter bus for your group. Instead of juggling subway transfers in the cold, flagging down cabs, or searching for parking near busy holiday hotspots, everyone can ride together and arrive relaxed. A charter bus in New York City gives you a warm, cozy space to chat, take photos, and store coats and gifts between stops, while a professional driver navigates the city’s traffic. It’s a convenient, comfortable, and festive way to experience all the winter wonderland–style restaurants without worrying about how you’ll get there.

NYC’s Christmas restaurants offer magical holiday dining experiences that transform ordinary meals into unforgettable winter wonderlands, each with unique themes and atmospheres.

• Book early or prepare to wait – Popular spots like Rolf’s require reservations months ahead, while others like Papillon operate walk-in only during holidays • Expect premium pricing for the experience – Holiday dining ranges from $18-42 for mains, with specialty cocktails averaging $14-19 across venues • Each restaurant offers distinct holiday themes – From Rolf’s over-the-top German Christmas to Oscar Wilde’s Victorian elegance and Frosty’s playful pop-up vibes • Strategic timing beats the crowds – Arrive at opening, visit weekdays, or book early dinner slots to avoid peak holiday rush times • Photo opportunities abound everywhere – These Instagram-worthy venues feature elaborate decorations, from floating teddy bears to crystal snowflakes and vintage ornaments

Whether seeking intimate rooftop views at Ophelia or the legendary spectacle of Rolf’s ornament-covered ceiling, NYC’s Christmas restaurants deliver both exceptional ambiance and quality dining that justify the splurge for creating lasting holiday memories.

FAQs