Best Christmas Bars In New York City

New York City is a magical place to spend the holiday season, with its iconic Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and cozy bars serving up festive cocktails. Whether you're a native New Yorker or just visiting for the holidays, there's no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by sipping on a cup of cheer at one of the city's best Christmas bars.

From classic taverns to trendy cocktail bars, NYC has a diverse range of holiday-themed watering holes to suit every taste and style. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of the best Christmas bars in New York City, featuring everything from nostalgic nods to traditional holiday drinks to modern twists on classic cocktails.

Classic Christmas Bars in NYC

If you're looking for a nostalgic holiday experience, head to one of these classic Christmas bars in NYC.

Rolf's German Restaurant

A New York City institution since 1950, Rolf's German Restaurant is a must-visit during the holiday season. This old-school tavern is decked out in over-the-top decorations, including a whopping 250,000 lights, 100,000 ornaments, and 500 wreaths. Their extensive beer list features a range of German brews, including festive seasonals like mulled wine and spiced ale.

McSorley's Old Ale House

McSorley's Old Ale House is another NYC classic that's a great place to get into the holiday spirit. Established in 1854, this historic bar is one of the oldest in the city and features a rustic, no-frills atmosphere that's perfect for sipping on a pint of their famous ale. During the holiday season, McSorley's decorates with traditional garlands and serves up warm, spiced drinks like mulled wine and cider.

The Dead Rabbit

The Dead Rabbit is a critically acclaimed cocktail bar that's a must-visit for any serious drinks enthusiast. During the holiday season, the bar transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and a special holiday menu featuring drinks like the "Sleigh Driver" and "Snowflake."

Trendy Christmas Bars in NYC

If you're looking for a more modern take on the traditional Christmas bar, check out one of these trendy spots.

230 Fifth

230 Fifth is a popular rooftop bar in the Flatiron District that's a great place to enjoy the holiday views. During the winter months, the bar transforms into a festive winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, holiday decorations, and a special menu featuring drinks like hot chocolate and spiced cider.

The NoMad

The NoMad is a stylish cocktail bar in the Nomad Hotel that's a great place to enjoy a holiday drink. The bar's elegant, upscale atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion, and their holiday menu features a range of creative cocktails like the "Saison Noël" and "Winter in the City."

Attaboy

Attaboy is a tiny, unmarked cocktail bar in the Lower East Side that's a favorite among locals. During the holiday season, the bar transforms into a cozy winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and a special menu featuring drinks like hot buttered rum and spiced cider.

Christmas Bars in NYC with Live Music

If you're looking for a holiday bar experience with live music, check out one of these spots.

The Ear Inn

The Ear Inn is a historic bar in the West Village that's been hosting live music performances for over 40 years. During the holiday season, the bar features a range of live music acts, including jazz, blues, and folk musicians. Their holiday menu features a range of festive drinks, including hot buttered rum and spiced cider.

The Django

The Django is a swanky cocktail bar in the Roxy Hotel that's a great place to enjoy live music during the holiday season. The bar features a range of live music acts, including jazz and blues musicians, and their holiday menu includes creative cocktails like the "Snowflake" and "Sleigh Driver."

The Top of the Strand

The Top of the Strand is a rooftop bar in the Strand Hotel that's a great place to enjoy live music during the holiday season. The bar features a range of live music acts, including jazz and rock musicians, and their holiday menu includes festive drinks like hot chocolate and spiced cider.

We hope this guide to the best Christmas bars in New York City has helped you find the perfect spot to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you're looking for a classic, nostalgic experience or a modern, trendy take on the traditional Christmas bar, there's something for everyone in this great city. So grab a cup of cheer and enjoy the holiday season in NYC!