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Where to Eat in New York City during the Holidays

Getting hungry after some holiday shopping or maybe after ice skating in one of New York City’s many ice skating rinks? Here are our picks on where to eat in New York City during the holidays. Whether you are looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, there is something for everyone!

Rolf’s – 281 3rd Ave

We have to start this list with Rolf’s. Rolf’s is a German restaurant renowned for their elaborate Christmas decorations. If you haven’t been here during the holidays, it is truly a sight to behold. Try their schnitzel while you are there!

Jacques Torres Chocolate – 30 Rockefeller Plaza & Other Locations

A holiday tradition for us around this time is to get a cup of hot chocolate and a warm chocolate chip cookie from Jacques Torres Chocolate. It is a decadent treat that hits the spot and warms you up. Jacques Torres Chocolate has a location in Rockefeller Center so it is perfect after shopping in the area or skating in their rink.

Rock Center Cafe – Rockefeller Ctr

Also in the Rockefeller Center area is the Rock Center Cafe. It has unbeatable views of the world famous ice skating rink. There are American classics and comfort foods like burgers, boneless prime rib and roasted chicken on the menu.

The Lobster Place – 75 9th Ave

Around this time, we are also craving soup especially as it gets colder in New York City. Our favorite spot for soups is actually the The Lobster Place in Chelsea Market. We can’t recommend their clam chowder or lobster bisque enough! You also can’t go wrong with Ed’s Chowder House (44 W 63rd St).

Tavern on the Green – Central Park West & 67th St

Central Park is one of the most picturesque places in NYC and after spending a day in Central Park you can stop by the iconic Tavern on the Green for dinner. Dishes like diver scallops, lobster risotto and roast veal tenderloin have our mouths watering!

69 Bayard WK Restaurant – 69 Bayard St

If you are looking for a delicious dinner on Christmas day, there won’t be many restaurants open for business in New York City but some Chinese restaurants in Chinatown will be open. 69 Bayard WK Restaurant is one of our favorites in the neighborhood. You can fill up on yummy Chinese dishes like stir fried lobster with scallion and ginger, steamed fish and soft shell crabs. Best of all, it won’t break the bank!

Freeman’s – Freeman Alley

Finally if you are looking for a good hearty meal with friends and family, we recommend Freeman’s. It is a restaurant down a quiet alley in the Lower East Side. From their lamb shepherd’s pie to their seared filet mignon, the food here is outstanding. But Freeman’s can be very popular especially during the holidays so plan ahead.

Steamed Lobster from Chelsea Market

Also check out our blog post on fun things to do in NYC during the holidays.