Looking for a festive way to warm up with some cocktails and friends this holiday season? Our list of holiday-themed bars are sure to put lift your spirits and put a little rosy glow to your cheeks. Celebrate with a trip to all of our seasonal drinking favorites around town this winter-- they won't last forever.
If you’re looking for a festive dining experience in NYC, look no further. Papillon Bistro is one of my favorite restaurants to visit during the holidays because they go all out for the season! This year-round French bistro features two stories of magical Christmas décor and serves up holiday magic with every bite.
281 Third Ave | Gramercy
PHOTO: ROLF'S INSTAGRAM
This cozy, old-world German bar and restaurant is famous for it’s impressive seasonal display. It’s rumored that Rolf’s is decked out in thousands of dollars worth of holiday decor and twinkling lights, and the results are simply gorgeous. Complete your NYC holiday bucket list in Midtown at Rolf’s, but be prepared to wait until winter freezes over if you don’t make a reservation. This place is popular for a reason.
649 East 9th St | East Village
PHOTO: Mircale on Ninth StreeT InsTAGRAM
Miracle on Ninth Street has become a yearly tradition in the East Village. Their highlight is the inventive holiday drinks. Whether you’re on the naughty or nice list, pop in and treat yourself to some Jingle Ball Egg Nog (cognac, amontillado sherry, peanut butter, almond milk, pandan nougat syrup, egg, nutmeg), or the delicious Bad Santa (mulled red wine, port, orange liqueur, golden raisins).
221 Smith St | Carroll Gardens
PHOTO: SLEYENDA
For the month of December, one of Brooklyn's most eclectic cocktail bars, Leyenda, transforms into Sleyenda. World-class mixologists serve patrons some of the best Mexican Spiked Hot Chocolate in the city. Sip some seasonal concoctions out of all types of holiday-inspired glassware this season while you can before it resumes back to its normal (but just as great) menu.
129 East 18th St | Gramercy Park
PHOTO: PETE'S TAVERN INSTAGRAM
Although Pete's Tavern is great year-round, it’s the perfect spot to cozy up with a drink when the holidays come around. Every year, they go all out with festive holiday decorations to set the perfect winter vibe.
1150 Broadway | Flatiron
230 Fifth is a must-visit spot for both tourists and locals. While it tends to get busy during the winter months, don’t let that stop you from enjoying one of the city’s coolest heated rooftops. When the chill sets in, 230 Fifth transforms with Instagram-worthy igloo tents that are sure to wow your family and friends during the holidays.
7 Rivington St | LES
PHOTO: LORELEY BEER GARDEN
Loreley's popular Holiday Winter Wonderland Popup is back through 1/5, featuring over-the-top décor with light-up reindeer, snowmen, and a sleigh, plus festive drinks like Boozy Bourbon Hot Chocolate and Spiked Eggnog served in ornament glasses. Reserve your spot now on RESY, cozy up in the heated outdoor garden, and indulge in hearty favorites like Sausage Party platters and Giant Pretzels!
266 W 47th St | Theater District
PHOTO: THE MEAN FIDDLER
The Mean Fiddler, on the regular, is a go-to Irish pub in Times Square, known for bottomless brunch and happy hour. For the holiday season, it transforms into one of the most iconic holiday bars in the Big Apple. This year, they're offering bottomless brunch or dinner for just $30! Why visit? Their festive drinks include the Let It Snow Coconut Marg, Jack Frost Piña Colada, and Grinch Melon Marg!
220 W 44th St | Times Square
PHOTO: Frosty's Christmas Bar
Full of festive photo ops, holiday drinks, music, and more, Frosty's Christmas Bar is the talk of Times Square! With a 3-floor activation packed with holiday magic, it’s almost impossible to put into words—you have to see it to believe it! Four bars, a restaurant, and even Santa—what more could we ask for this season?
231 Hudson St | SoHo
PHOTO: Nicholas Lee Ruiz
Foxtail, a super sly speakeasy in Arlo SoHo, is celebrating the season with a cozy yet festive Holiday Hideaway! Explore their winter wonderland and escape the cold with warm seasonal cocktails like Spiked Mexican Hot Cocoa or a Yuletide Toddy, plus creative holiday concoctions like the Christmas Fruitcake or Tree Topper.
Holiday shopping made easy...check out all of the amazing Holiday Markets and our Holiday Gift Guide to find that special gift for whoever is at the top of your list.
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