The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a visit to a Christmas-themed bar in the city that never sleeps? New York City is home to a plethora of bars that transform into winter wonderlands during the holiday season, complete with decorations, specialty cocktails, and even Santa's sleigh. Here are 7 Christmas-themed bars to visit in NYC that are sure to put you in the holiday mood.
1. Rolf's German Restaurant
Rolf's German Restaurant in Gramercy is a NYC institution when it comes to Christmas decorations. Every year, the bar is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with over-the-top decorations, including twinkling lights, garlands, and even a giant Christmas tree. The bar serves up classic German beers and cocktails, as well as a special holiday menu featuring dishes like schnitzel and sauerbraten.
Must-try drink: Glühwein, a traditional German mulled wine
2. 230 Fifth
230 Fifth is a rooftop bar in the Flatiron District that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. During the holiday season, the bar is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and a special holiday menu. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies while taking in the views of the city.
Must-try drink: Hot cocoa with a shot of peppermint schnapps
3. The NoMad
The NoMad is a swanky hotel bar in the Nomad neighborhood that's a must-visit during the holiday season. The bar is decorated with festive garlands and a giant Christmas tree, and serves up specialty cocktails like the "Sleigh Driver" and the "Snowflake." Visitors can also enjoy a special holiday menu featuring dishes like foie gras and roasted bone marrow.
Must-try drink: The "Sleigh Driver," made with bourbon, apple cider, and cinnamon
4. The Dead Rabbit
The Dead Rabbit is a award-winning cocktail bar in the Financial District that's a must-visit during the holiday season. The bar is decorated with festive decorations, including a giant Christmas tree and garlands, and serves up specialty cocktails like the "Winter Wonderland" and the "Snowball Fight." Visitors can also enjoy a special holiday menu featuring dishes like oysters and foie gras.
Must-try drink: The "Winter Wonderland," made with gin, cranberry juice, and lime
5. Sippin' Santa's Surf Shack
Sippin' Santa's Surf Shack is a pop-up bar in the East Village that's a fun and festive spot to grab a holiday cocktail. The bar is decorated with surfboards, tropical decorations, and even a giant Christmas tree, and serves up specialty cocktails like the "Sippin' Santa" and the "Mele Kalikimaka." Visitors can also enjoy a special holiday menu featuring dishes like fish tacos and burgers.
Must-try drink: The "Sippin' Santa," made with gin, cranberry juice, and lime
6. Miracle on 9th Street
Miracle on 9th Street is a pop-up bar in the East Village that's a fun and festive spot to grab a holiday cocktail. The bar is decorated with festive decorations, including a giant Christmas tree and garlands, and serves up specialty cocktails like the "Jingle Ball Nog" and the "Snowball Fight." Visitors can also enjoy a special holiday menu featuring dishes like burgers and mac and cheese.
Must-try drink: The "Jingle Ball Nog," made with bourbon, eggnog, and nutmeg
7. Rattle N Hum
Rattle N Hum is a craft beer bar in Midtown that's a great spot to grab a holiday beer. The bar is decorated with festive decorations, including a giant Christmas tree and garlands, and serves up a variety of holiday beers like the "Samuel Adams Winter Lager" and the "Southern Tier Old Man Winter Ale." Visitors can also enjoy a special holiday menu featuring dishes like burgers and pretzels.
Must-try drink: The "Samuel Adams Winter Lager," a festive holiday beer
Whether you're looking for a fun and festive spot to grab a holiday cocktail or a cozy spot to enjoy a holiday beer, these 7 Christmas-themed bars in NYC are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
Now, we'd love to hear from you! Which Christmas-themed bar in NYC is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
What is the most popular Christmas-themed bar in NYC?
+Rolf's German Restaurant is one of the most popular Christmas-themed bars in NYC, known for its over-the-top decorations and festive atmosphere.
What is the best time to visit a Christmas-themed bar in NYC?
+The best time to visit a Christmas-themed bar in NYC is during the week, as weekends can be very crowded. It's also a good idea to visit early in the season, before the bars get too busy.
Are Christmas-themed bars in NYC kid-friendly?
+Some Christmas-themed bars in NYC are kid-friendly, while others are not. It's best to check with the bar before visiting to see if they allow children.