’Tis the season in NYC to bundle up in your coziest sweater, sip on some Hot Toddies, and soak in the holiday cheer. Whether you’re seeing a show, exploring the various holiday markets, or skating across the rink at Bryant Park, there’s always a festive activity to be had. With all of that excitement, you’ll be sure to work up an appetite, which is where our trusted guidance comes in handy. Keep reading for some of our favorite eateries and bars that are perfect for a Christmas feast and pre- or post-meal toast.

L’EXPRESS:

L’Express is a 24-hour French bistro with an unmatched charm near the tree in Gramercy Park. It offers guests a little bit of everything, with a selection of booths, tables, and a bar depending on your mood. Their classic French fare never disappoints, which can be found on their Christmas menu for a prix-fixe of $49. Indulge in some escargot and steak frites before heading to Irving Place to admire all the townhouses decorated with Christmas lights. The historic Pete’s Tavern is also right around the corner.

marea:

If you just took your parents to a show in Lincoln Center, walk on over to the upscale Central Park South establishment known as Marea for dinner. This white-tablecloth Italian restaurant is serving a $175-per-person Christmas Eve dinner from 5pm to 10:45pm, featuring an elaborate four-course menu. Come on Christmas Day and enjoy a sommelier-selected Wine Pairing for $115 per person.

scarpetta:

The handmade pastas at Scarpetta are to die for, as is pretty much everything on the menu. Dine outside in holiday chalets designed especially for the winter chill, or enjoy your meal indoors in simple yet elegant surrounds. Continue the night with a chocolate martini in the lit up garden at Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar.

hAVEN ROOFTOP:

This midtown rooftop bar and restaurant is known for its winter wonderland holiday decor, and luckily, they’re open for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. They’re offering a prix-fixe Christmas Eve dinner menu for $79+, from 5pm to 9:30pm. Some menu highlights: roasted butternut squash; lamb chops served in a red wine reduction sauce; and creme brûlée. Enjoy the view from above The Sanctuary Hotel while reclining in one of Haven’s cushy cabanas.

claudette:

Claudette is a Christmas Eve staple, serving up French Moroccan delights. It’s a cozy neighborhood spot that teeters somewhere between casual and formal, run by the same team behind Rosemary’s — another favorite of ours. Choose an appetizer, entree, and dessert from their $75 prix-fixe menu, which includes a pan roasted halibut served in bouillabaisse sauce with lobster ravioli and tarragon grilled crostini.

tavern on the green:

If you’re visiting NYC or have family coming in for Christmas, you simply can’t miss Tavern On The Green during the month of December. Celebrating Christmas at this Central Park mainstay begins with the annual Christmas tree lighting, complete with caroling and festive refreshments. Sit in the courtyard or the decked out halls of the indoor dining room to sip on some eggnog and cinnamon cider, or hot chocolate for the kids. They’re also serving a special holiday brunch that includes pancakes and frittata for $80 per person, between 9am to 4pm.

CITY WINERY POP-UP:

Head to the City Winery Pop-Up at Rockefeller Center for some mulled wine and spiked cider in their signature heated Winter Domes. Located in the bustling Rockefeller Plaza, this pop-up couldn’t get more spirited if it tried — just be sure to make a reservation (for up to eight guests) since there are only four domes on-site. The minimum food and beverage spend is $150 + tax between 1pm and 3:45pm and $250 + tax from 4pm onward.

lafayette grand cafe:

This buzzy French brasserie in NoHo is a must for Christmas Day brunch. On a regular day, Lafayette is packed with chatty New Yorkers waiting on their Croque Madames, so you can expect that same energy but tenfold on a holiday. Similar to Balthazar, which is fully booked for Christmas this season, Lafayette delivers that uniquely New York experience you feel in your veins. Order the lemon pancakes topped with berries or the brisket burger dijonnaise, and top it off with some celebratory champagne.

Check out our holiday spots highlight on Instagram for more ideas.

Christmas in NYC 2021: Eat + Drink Guide