As the holiday season paints the streets of New York in cheerful hues, the quintessential Christmas dinner presents an opportunity to savor both culinary delights and festive camaraderie. Each neighborhood in this immense city offers a unique dining experience, melding diverse cultures with seasonal tradition. Here are ten compelling options for a memorable Christmas dinner, alongside their addresses, contact details, and websites.
1. Keens Steakhouse
72 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 947-3636
Website: www.keenssteakhouse.com
Almost a century and a half old, Keens Steakhouse stands as a titan of New York’s culinary landscape. This establishment exudes old-world charm, perfectly suited for a holiday dinner steeped in nostalgia. The smell of dry-aged beef mingles with the ambiance of historic wood paneling, creating an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of classic holiday gatherings. Special holiday menus elevate traditional fare, featuring cuts that practically melt in your mouth.
2. The River Café
1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (718) 522-5200
Website: www.rivercafe.com
Nestled on the banks of the East River, The River Café prides itself on its breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. This gastronomic jewel transforms Christmas dinner into a visual feast. The menu is an extravagant celebration of local ingredients, each dish reflecting both Italian sophistication and the creativity of renowned chefs. The experience is buoyed by live jazz, which wafts through the air like an enchanting spell, making every moment memorable.
3. Balthazar
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 965-1414
Website: www.balthazarny.com
Balthazar offers a French brasserie experience right in the heart of SoHo, making it a bewitching locale for Christmas dinner. With its bustling atmosphere and ornately decorated interior, it feels like stepping into a Parisian winter wonderland. On Christmas, the menu showcases seasonal French delicacies, paired with exquisite wines that transport diners to alternate realms of flavor. An evening at Balthazar echoes with laughter and clinking glasses, making it perfect for families and friends alike.
4. Scarpetta
355 W 14th St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: (212) 691-0555
Website: www.scarpettarestaurants.com
In the vibrant Meatpacking District, Scarpetta delivers an irresistible blend of cozy warmth and refined elegance. The ambiance wraps around guests like a cashmere shawl. Christmas dinner here offers an extraordinary twist on Italian cuisine, with dishes that are hearty yet delicate. Every bite of their famed spaghetti with tomato & basil is a manifestation of culinary artistry, making it a must-visit for those who seek to indulge in flavors that sing in harmony.
5. The Modern
9 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 333-1220
Website: www.themodernnyc.com
The Modern, positioned within the Museum of Modern Art, epitomizes the fusion of art and cuisine. Christmas dinners here transform into a multisensory experience, where the culinary masterpieces mirror the visual grandeur of the artworks around. Guests can revel in a contemporary American menu that radiates creativity. The sleek, sophisticated atmosphere is complemented by a stunning view of the sculpture garden, turning every dinner into an occasion of indulgent reverie.
6. La Grenouille
3 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 752-1495
Website: www.lagrenouille.com
La Grenouille embodies the spirit of French dining, making it a remarkable venue for an enchanting Christmas dinner. With its flower-filled dining room, adorned in festive décor, guests feel as if they have stepped into a timeless holiday painting. The menu features classically prepared French delicacies, making every bite a testament to culinary tradition and passion. This is a setting where romance and fine dining waltz gracefully hand in hand, creating an unparalleled experience.
7. The Smith
1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Phone: (212) 420-9800
Website: www.thesmithrestaurant.com
The Smith is a modern American brasserie that brings energy and vibrancy to the Upper West Side. The atmosphere is both trendy and convivial, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather over a hearty Christmas meal. The menu is a celebration of classic American comfort food with a twist, offering dishes that nurture the soul. It’s a place where festive cheer mingles seamlessly with delicious food, ensuring a Christmas celebration filled with joy.
8. STK Steakhouse
26 Little W 12th St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: (212) 995-3790
Website: www.stksteakhouse.com
In the heart of the Meatpacking District, STK Steakhouse presents a modern and stylish take on the traditional steakhouse. It’s like a lively holiday party, where the ambiance is as vibrant as the culinary offerings. For Christmas, STK curates a menu that showcases premium steaks and innovative sides, all served in an upbeat environment complemented by chic décor and pulsating beats. This is a holiday dinner that invigorates both the palate and spirit.
9. Eleven Madison Park
11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
Phone: (212) 889-0905
Website: www.elevenmadisonpark.com
Regarded among the pinnacle of dining experiences globally, Eleven Madison Park offers a Christmas dinner that transcends mere sustenance. Every dish is an orchestral arrangement of flavor, meticulously crafted to delight the senses. Guests are enveloped in an ambiance of elegance and sophistication as they partake in an inventive tasting menu. It’s a dinner that captivates the spirit of the holidays, embodying the essence of celebration in every bite.
10. City Island Lobster House
404 City Island Ave, Bronx, NY 10464
Phone: (718) 885-9885
Website: www.cityislandlobsterhouse.com
For those craving a coastal escape amidst the urban landscape, City Island Lobster House offers a nautical-themed Christmas dinner like no other. The restaurant provides an irresistible selection of fresh seafood in a casual, laid-back setting. Overlooking the water, it invites patrons to enjoy their holiday feast with the gentle sounds of the waves. It’s a refreshing twist for families who want to embrace the festive spirit while enjoying a taste of the ocean.
As you plan your Christmas dinner in New York, each of these restaurants offers a spectrum of experiences, flavors, and atmospheres. From classic steakhouses to creative culinary delights, the city beckons with festive dining that delights every palate. Choose your preferred spot, gather around the table with your loved ones, and embark on a gastronomic journey that resonates with the joyous spirit of the season.
