The holidays in New York City can mean a lot of things: crowds, shopping, tourists, crowds, hell, etc.
But for bars and restaurants it means going all-out with festive garlands, lights, and ornaments to encourage these festive crowds to eat and drink and their establishments.
This city is packed with restaurants demonstrating their holiday festivity through decorations and killer food.
Nothing says holiday cheer like the decorated streets, restaurants, and bars of NYC.
Whether you're looking for the spot with the most lights, or the best place to take a date for a festively romantic meal, we've got the list for you.
Here are the 7 best restaurants and bars that give off that holiday feelin' this season.
1. Rolf's German Restaurant (281 3rd Avenue)
For our choice of the most festive restaurant in NYC, the answer was easily Rolf's. As soon as you step through the door at Rolf's you'll feel like Santa Claus himself packed each crevice with holiday cheer.
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We don't think we've ever seen a space with so many lights, ornaments, and garland in one space. Just be sure to go before 9:00 p.m., because Rolf's takes on a bit more of a frat party feel after the dinner rush.
2. Club A Steakhouse (240 East 58th Street)
For our choice for the best holiday date night restaurant, Club A is the perfect choice. This swanky, delicious steakhouse is the perfect spot for your holiday meal.
No, they don't go all out with gaudy lights and decorations, but their luxurious furniture and red walls are the perfect setting for your holiday meal.
(Side note, their enormous sidewalk tree decked out in holiday lights from top to bottom does an incredible job of setting the mood for what's sure to be a special evening.)
Not to mention that it's a family establishment serving up some of the best steaks in NYC, so you're sure to leave with festive cheer.
3. Molly's (287 3rd Avenue)
nycrestaurant Our new client Molly's Shebeen is all ready for the holidays! Get into the spirit of the season with a visit this weekend. #holidays #bar #nyc #decorate #manhattan #christmas #festive
Want a cozy, festive bar? Our choice is Molly's. Unlike Rolf's, Molly's skips the ornaments and garland and sticks with strand after strand of Christmas lights. These colorful slights are hanging from the walls, ceilings, and wrapped around large wreaths.
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If you still can't get into the holiday spirit after enjoying a meal or drink at Molly's, you're probably related to the Grinch.
4. Lincoln Square Steak (208 West 70th Street)
If you're looking for a group holiday meal, you need to check out Lincoln Square Steak.
Nothing puts us in the holiday mood like live music and overindulgence. You'll get both from Lincoln Square Steak-- plus an incredible view of their impressive meat locker, right from the sidewalk.
The 60s themed decor and romantic live music from their baby grand piano is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
You have to try the "Sizzling Canadian Bacon" as an appetizer, before digging in to some excellent steak or seafood. Seriously, just trust us on that one.
,5. Pete's Tavern (129 East 18th Street)
Are you looking to drink at a bar with the most lights? You'll want to hit Pete's. This spot is well known for decorating at Christmas (and at Christmas only). They cover the ceiling with festive holiday lights with a red hue and decorate the bar with garland, lights, and ornaments.
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It's impossible to sip on a delicious cocktail or beer under the festive decorations and not feel full of holiday cheer.
6. Colicchio and Sons (85 10th Avenue)
colicchio_sons Pastry chef @stephencollucci & pastry sous @adeintheshade went all out on our #bluechristmas inspired gingerbread house // All of our decorations are up and we've started taking reservations for #ChristmasEve To view our menu & make a reservation, click on the link in our profile #Colicchioandsons #candsdoesitbest #craftedhospitality #holidays #holidayseason #itsbeginningtolookalotlikechristmas #nyc #nyceats #nycevents #christmaseve #christmasevedinner
Best family decoration tradition has to go to Tom Colicchio with his Colicchio and Sons. What says Christmas spirit like Elvis? According to owner and celebrity chef, Tom Colicchio, nothing.
He decorates Colicchio and Sons with a plethora of neon Christmas ornaments and trees due to his father's tradition of playing Elvis' Christmas album. While there, order the "Poached Lobster with Saffron," served with black trumpet mushrooms and brussels sprouts.
7. Miracle on 9th Street (649 East 9th Street)
If you're looking for our absolute favorite holiday bar, well, that would be Miracle on 9th Street. This pop-up bar is a must for anyone who loves the holiday season, but especially for people who aren't.
Nobody likes a Scrooge (McDuck or otherwise), and this bar will certainly warm their hearts... or at least, it'll make them drunk on drinks like "Jingle Balls Nog," or "Fa La La," and nobody can resist that cheer.
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Its bedecked with kitschy holiday decorations, both Christmas and Hanukkah. They also serve their drinks in festive mugs. But act quickly! This bar will disappear faster than a snowman in the summertime... or if one appeared today in 60 degree weather.
It will close its doors right after the holiday season ends.
Check out 7 Most Underrated Bars in Brooklyn.
[Feature Image Courtesy Instagram]