Christmas Eve Dining in New York City: Festive Menus to Savor
The festive season is in full swing in New York City, with holiday markets buzzing, ice rinks glistening, and residents preparing for glorious feasts. For those looking to celebrate Christmas Eve with a distinguished dining experience, numerous NYC restaurants are unveiling special menus. Here’s a roundup of notable options to consider for December 24:
Union Square Cafe: A Traditional Christmas Feast
At the renowned Union Square Cafe, guests are invited to partake in the Third Annual Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes, priced at $195 per person ($55 for kids, $95 wine pairing). The four-course meal, inspired by Executive Chef Lena Ciardullo’s family traditions, features:
- Caviar Service with Tater Tots
- Antipasti in Abbondanza
- Seafood Pasta selections
- Choice between Beef Tenderloin or Swordfish Piccata
- Desserts: Orange Sorbetto and an Italian-inspired Cookie Tin
Complemented by a special Strega Nona Spritz cocktail, this feast is sure to delight any palate.
A Historic Dinner in the West Village
For a charming holiday atmosphere, visit a historic townhouse in the West Village offering a $165 prix-fixe dinner. Highlights include:
- Salad Lyonnaise with frisée, bacon lardon, poached egg, Mimolette cheese, and truffle dressing
- Steak Tartare with garlic aioli and brown butter emulsion
- Main Courses: Red Snapper with cabbage farce, the classic Beef Wellington
- Dessert: Buche De Noel served alongside eggnog ice cream
Michelin-Starred French Cuisine
This Christmas Eve, indulge in a lavish five-course tasting menu at a Michelin-starred French restaurant. Priced at $195 per guest, additional wine pairing options are available for $155. The menu features dishes such as:
- Cured Hiramasa with avocado mousse and royal kaluga caviar
- Celeriac Lasagna with black truffle
- Grilled Tilefish
- Venison Striploin with parsnip mousse
- Dessert: Nougat Parfait with caramelized pistachio
Luxurious Offerings in Williamsburg
In Williamsburg, a luxe French restaurant will present a traditional holiday menu along with festive specialties. Highlights include:
- Caviar Service featuring ossetra caviar
- King Crab Tortelloni
- Fromage Flamée to share with unique accompaniments
Greenpoint’s Japanese American Comfort
The acclaimed Lingo in Greenpoint will be open for Christmas Eve, showcasing its comforting classics, plus a seasonal special featuring:
- Wagyu beef katsu sando
- A Christmas dessert to commemorate the festivities
Grand Holiday Ambiance
Another elegant French venue will host diners with a special Christmas Eve menu, including:
- Soupe De Choux Fleur
- Roasted Halibut
The restaurant is distinguished by its stunning 26-foot Christmas tree adorned with about 1,000 ornaments and 15,000 string lights.
Sea Fire Grill: A Seafood Celebration
Midtown’s Sea Fire Grill will offer a twist on the traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes, featuring a three-course experience for $149 per person:
- Starters: Crudo assortment or Oysters with caviar
- Main Courses: Roasted Mediterranean Branzino, Roasted Nova Scotia Halibut, or Blackened Montauk Swordfish
- Desserts: Choices include Molten Chocolate Cake or Tiramisu
No matter where you choose to dine, New York City’s vibrant culinary scene promises an unforgettable Christmas Eve celebration.
