Looking for a festive place for a family meal to bring in the Holiday season? New York City has plenty of options! From a restaurant that feels as if you are literally sitting inside a Christmas tree to restaurants that have a direct view of an ice skating rink, the choices are endless for festive holiday meal madness. Read on for a curated list of our favorite restaurants that are great for families.
Papillon Bistro and Bar
Oh, what a sight! This popular French brasserie is located a short walk from the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree, and a perfect stop during the holiday season. The restaurant is covered from floor to ceiling in one of the top decorations, including GIGANTIC animatronic teddy bears, garlands, larger-than-life ornaments, and more. The menu is large and varied and should suit all family appetites.
Papillon Bistro and Bar. 22 E 54th Street. No Kids Menu. More information and reservations HERE
Frosty’s Christmas Bar
Frosty’s Christmas Bar is back for the 2024 Holiday season with seasonal cocktails, wonderfully interactive Holiday photo experiences, lights & music. Important to know: Frosty’s New York has three floors and two separate businesses. Frosty’s is the bar area and strictly 21+. Bacall’s, the dining portion of the experience, allows all ages. At time of writing the opening date has not been announced yet – we will update here once this is known.
Frosty’s Christmas Bar. 220 West 44th Street. No Kids Menu. More information and reservations HERE
The Biggest Present in the City – Smith & Wollensky
Is there anything more festive than eating inside a present? As part of its annual tradition, famed steakhouse Smith & Wollensky celebrates the holidays by transforming itself into the city’s largest Christmas gift! Already festive with its green and white exterior, Smith and Wollensky’s gets wrapped in a massive red bow from Thanksgiving through the beginning of the New Year. The restaurant is a New York City institution and the adornment has become one of our favorite holiday attractions.
Smith & Wollensky. 797 3rd Avenue at 49th Street. No Kids Menu (but portions are big – you can share). More information and reservations HERE
Floor to Ceiling Decor – Oscar Wilde
New York City’s longest bar is also one of the most festive. The Victorian-themed restaurant and bar is inspired by the Irish playwright and pays homage to his story. The showcases antique treasures, including pieces from Hope Castle, stained glass from Milan, and Victorian chairs from Mexico. During the holidays the restaurant is covered from head to toe in holiday decor. Extravagance is always in season – you’ll find Oscar Wilde themed for all seasons, including a spooky take on Halloween. More to see – Lilie’s Victorian, Oscar Wilde’s sister restaurant, follows the same theme (and holiday decor).
Oscar Wilde. 45 W 27th Street. No Kids Menu. Brunch menu offers a nice variety. Most tables are high tops. More information and reservations HERE.
Dinner in an Igloo – 230 Fifth
Perched high upon the 230 Fifth Rooftop in NYC, these amazing igloos are a winter lovers’ dream. Located on the largest rooftop in all of the city, there are over a half dozen igloos. Each is made of plastic and PVC pipe and decked out with fun colorful party lights. Each igloo is outfitted with tables and chairs and can sit up to 11 people. Note that igloos can not be reserved, and are first come first served. Food is available (think burgers and sandwiches) however it is important to note that it could be cold – the igloos only have small space heaters and do not retain heat. Igloo reservations can be made 2 weeks in advance for parties of 6 or more. Walk-ins are welcome. Guests under 21 can visit with their parents anytime except Friday and Saturday after 7pm.
230 Fifth. Located at 230 Fifth Avenue at 27th Street. No Kids Menu. More information HERE
A Blanket of Lights – Pete’s Tavern
Pete’s Tavern, one of the oldest bars in NYC, is renowned for its festive Christmas decorations. The windows in front of the restaurant feature a Christmas village, and the bar entrance area is completely (and beautifully) COVERED in red Christmas lights over the entire ceiling. Grab a seat in the back of the restaurant, and enjoy amazing pub fare such as burgers and sandwiches in a remarkably friendly and cozy atmosphere. One of the holiday favorites that we frequent year after year.
Pete’s Tavern. 129 E 18th St. Kids Menu Available with usual kiddie favorites. More information HERE.
Like Eating inside a Christmas Tree – Rolf’s
You won’t be able to stop looking up at this famous German restaurant! From gorgeous glass ornaments to angels in porcelain, faux snow, and seemingly miles of fancy tree garland – there is no way you won’t be in the Holiday spirit after your visit to one of the best Holiday restaurants in New York City. Rolf’s is an NYC Holiday institution. It is as much a Christmas spectacular as the Rockettes in Rockefeller Center. As such – the Restaurant is SLAMMED through the month of December, often with hours-long waits to gaze at the festive decor. The best bet for families- make a lunch or dinner reservation for the restaurant, and enjoy space at a (tightly packed) table instead of trying to cram the fam into the standing-room-only bar area. Important to note: there is no children’s menu and the food is a bit pricey (and let’s just say they are not known for their food) be sure to check the menu.
Rolf’s. 281 Third Avenue at 22nd Street. Reservations are ESSENTIAL and can only be made in person (They take the phone off the hook during the holidays. Seriously.). No Kids Menu. Website and More Information HERE.
