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Best Restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree: 2023 Guide

The Restaurants Near the Rockefeller Center and its Christmas Tree often make the list of the most famous places to eat in Manhattan, NYC, in 2023. Indeed, in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree represents one of the most fascinating symbols of the 2023 Christmas in New York. It’s no surprise that the Rockefeller Center Restaurants are some of the city’s top places to eat in New York City. Moreover, with the arrival of the 2023 Holiday Season, the highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the sparkling Saks Light Show on the 5th Avenue, the area surrounding the Rockefeller Ice Skating Rink offer a range of culinary options promising to make your visit even more unforgettable.

These food spots, among the Best Restaurants Near the Rockefeller Center, provide a truly unique culinary experience! In fact, they are ideal for warming up before or after admiring the towering lit tree! Get ready to discover the Restaurants Near the Rockefeller Center in our NYC Blog!

Child in winter clothes on dad's shoulder pointing at Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and its lights in New York before heading for dinner in one of the best restaurants in the Rockefeller Center Area

Among top restaurants are Carmine’s in Times Square, Joe’s Home of Soup Dumplings, the irresistible Neapolitan pizza from Don Antonio, the unique atmosphere of Ellen Stardust, Bubba Gump in Times Square, La Grande Boucherie, the authentic Brazilian churrasco from Fogo de Chao, the unmissable American steakhouse, Gallaghers, and lastly, Papillon Bistro & Bar. Let’s explore the 2023 best restaurants in the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree area together.

Carmine's Italian Restaurant, a beloved spot near the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and one of the best restaurants in NYC

Carmine’s is one of the best italian restaurant near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Located just a 10-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, Carmine’s Italian Restaurant is a Times Square classic and one of the best italian restaurants near Rockefeller Center in 2023. This restaurant in Midtown Manhattan is famous for its generous portions and authentic Italian cuisine. We really believe this Italian Restaurant it’s an ideal place to refuel after the 2023 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. At Carmine’s, don’t miss the carbonara spaghetti or the homemade meatballs from the menu, both dishes loved by locals and tourists alike.

Location: 200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

Delicious Chinese cuisine at Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings, one of the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center

Joe’s Home of Soup Dumplings: A Chinese Experience Near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Joe’s Home of Soup Dumplings, just a 15-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, is a hidden gem among the skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan and one of the best Chinese restaurants near Rockefeller Center. Famous for its soup dumplings, it offers an authentic Chinese culinary experience in the heart of New York. After a day of shopping on 5th Avenue during the 2023 Holiday Season in NYC or a visit to the Rockefeller Center, warming up at this restaurant with a basket of steaming soup dumplings is an experience worth trying.

Location: 7 E 48th St, New York, NY 10017, United States

Artisanal Neapolitan pizza served at Don Antonio in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Times Square

Don Antonio: Neapolitan Pizza in the Heart of Midtown Manhattan

Known for the best Neapolitan pizza in Midtown Manhattan, Don Antonio is less than a 15-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. This Italian restaurant offers one of the best 2023 Neapolitan pizza near the Rockefeller Center in Manhattan. At Don Antonio you will find a true Italian culinary experience, with a selection of handmade pizzas. In their Times Square Restaurant, Don Antonio cooks all his pizzas in a wood-fired oven directly from Italy. The “Montanara” pizza is a must, as is the Neapolitan fritto, for an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience in Midtown Manhattan.

Location: 309 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019

Unique Broadway-style dining experience at Ellen Stardust near Rockefeller Center

Dinner and Show: A New York Christmas at Ellen Stardust

Located less than 10 minutes from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, Ellen Stardust is more than just a restaurant: it’s an experience. As you enjoy your meal during the 2023 Holiday Season in NYC, the waitstaff, all aspiring Broadway performers, will perform musical numbers between orders. The restaurant’s menu offers a wide choice of American dishes, from pancakes to sandwiches. Hence, this fancy diner in Manhattan is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a quick lunch before visiting Rockefeller Center. Ellen Stardust is one of the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center: if you visit it you will understand why.

Location: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019

Seafood delights at Bubba Gump, Times Square, a top choice among best restaurants near Rockefeller Center

A Forrest Gump Christmas: Dinner at Bubba Gump Near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Bubba Gump is a very famous restaurant in Times Square, just 10 minutes from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. This touristy restaurant offers a wide selection of seafood dishes in an environment that celebrates the film “Forrest Gump”. 2023 specialties include fried shrimp and pork ribs, ideal for a relaxing dinner after a day spent exploring Midtown Manhattan. Bubba Gump, though very touristy, is one of the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center.

Location: 1501 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

Elegant French dining atmosphere at La Grande Boucherie near Rockefeller Center

La Grande Boucherie: A French Touch to New York Christmas

La Grande Boucherie, just a 5-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, is an elegant French restaurant offering a refined culinary experience. Its menu includes classic dishes like foie gras, coq au vin, and tarte tatin. La Grande Boucherie is an ideal place for an elegant dinner during the Christmas holidays in New York. If you’re looking for a great French place to eat in 2023 in Midtown Manhattan, La Grande Boucherie is the right restaurant for you.

Location: 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Fogo de Chao offers authentic Brazilian Churrasco, ranking among the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center

Fogo de Chao: A Tasty Trip to Brazil in one of the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Fogo de Chao is a stone’s throw from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and offers a true Brazilian churrasco experience. This restaurant serves a selection of premium grilled meats, as well as traditional Brazilian sides, perfect for an energizing dinner after a day spent visiting 5th Avenue and Rockefeller Center. It is certainly one of the best Brazilian restaurants in 2023 near Rockefeller Center.

Location: 40 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Classic New York steakhouse vibe at Gallaghers, located in Midtown Manhattan: one of the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Gallaghers Steakhouse: End the Evening in New York Style After Visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Among the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree you’ll find Gallaghers Steakhouse, a New York institution. This restaurant in Midtown Manhattan is famous for its grilled steaks and its sophisticated atmosphere. As a result, Gallaghers is the perfect restaurant for a celebratory dinner after the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and among the best Steakhouse near Rockefeller Center. Finally, check out their Lunch Special: it’s really worth it! Among the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christams Tree, Gallaghers Steakhouse is definitely in the top 10 in 2023!

Location: 228 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019

Charming interior decorated for Christmas at Papillon Bistro and Bar, a standout among best restaurants near Rockefeller Center

Twinkle Under the Christmas Lights at Papillon Bistro & Bar

Thanks to its Christmas decorations, Papillon Bistro & Bar is a restaurant that offers a truly magical atmosphere. In fact, its ornaments perfectly match the spirit of Christmas in New York. This restaurant is just a 5-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and is ideal for a pre or post-tree visit cocktail. Don’t forget to read my 2023 Guide entirely dedicated to this restaurant to discover its specialties. In conclusion, are you looking for a Christmas Restaurant near the Rockefeller Tree? Then the best choice is definitely Papillon Bistro & Bar.

Location: 22 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022

Authentic Italian elegance on display at Fresco by Scotto, located near the Rockefeller Center area, one of the best restaurants near the Christmas Tree

Tasty Italian Dishes at Fresco by Scotto, Near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Just a 5-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, Fresco by Scotto is a hidden gem in Midtown Manhattan. This is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, with a menu that changes seasonally to include the freshest products available. Don’t miss their famous sausage and broccoli rabe pizza: it’s delicious! Also, their homemade pasta dishes are simply mouthwatering. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner after the 2023 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Fresco by Scotto is a restaurant that offers an unforgettable culinary experience.

Location: 34 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022

View from L'Avenue at Saks, showcasing the brilliantly lit Rockefeller Christmas Tree amidst the New York City skyline. Seen through the restaurant's window, diners enjoy their meal in the cozy, Parisian-style interior.

L’Avenue at Saks: Parisian Dining Experience with a clean view of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

With its Parisian atmosphere and magnificent view of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, L’Avenue at Saks is an absolute must-visit for the 2023 Holiday Season in NYC. You will find L’Avenue at Saks on the 8th and 9th floors of the iconic Saks Fifth Avenue. This chic restaurant brings a slice of Paris to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. With a menu crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, L’Avenue at Saks is one of the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree! In fact, this French Restaurant serves an impressive array of French dishes such as the exquisite foie gras terrine and the renowned duck à l’orange.

After a day spent admiring the stunning holiday lights on the 5th Avenue in Manhattan, L’Avenue offers the perfect place to relax and indulge. During the 2023 Holiday Season, enjoy a warm pot of mussels marinières while overlooking the twinkling lights of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree from the restaurant’s enchanting winter terrace. The enchanting atmosphere, coupled with its first-rate service, is simply unique! In fact, it makes L’Avenue one of the top dining destinations in NYC. We suggest you not miss their signature desserts! For example, the Paris-Brest perfectly ends any meal at L’Avenue at Saks.

Also, this is the perfect place for an upscale dining experience. In fact, it effortlessly combines the magic of the holiday season in New York with the elegance of Paris. If you are seeking an unforgettable dining experience with an unbeatable view of the 2023 Rockefeller Christmas Tree, L’Avenue at Saks is undoubtedly the place to go. Add it to the list of the 2023 Best Restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree: we are sure you will love it!

Location: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

Close-up view of a slice of Junior's famous New York style cheesecake, showcasing its creamy texture and golden crust, served on a white plate.

Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery: the best Cheesecake Restaurants near Rockefeller Center

Are you looking for a food adventure in NYC? Are you seeking a slice of New York’s iconic cheesecake? Then, Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery tops the list of Restaurants near Rockefeller Center. This Cheesecake Restaurant has two locations within a short walking distance from the Christmas Tree. The first one is on Broadway, next to the Christmas Store open all year long. The other nestled between 7th and 8th Avenue on 45th Street, right next to the Lion King Theater. Junior’s Cheesecake Restaurant offers convenience and decadent cuisine in the heart of Manhattan.

If you are lookign for Cheesecake Restaurants near the Rockefeller Center, Junior’s is the right place to eat for you!

In fact, the flagship location at 1515 Broadway is just a 15-minute walk from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. It is a culinary landmark in the city, loved both by tourists and Newyorkers. This iconic restaurant and bakery was established in 1950. Right now, it is renowned for its mouthwatering cheesecakes, making it a must-visit during the 2023 Holiday Season in NYC.

But don’t stop at just one location. Junior’s second outpost, situated just steps away from the Red Stairs in Times Square, is also an essential destination. This spot brings the same fantastic menu closer to the heart of the city’s entertainment hub. This Cheesecake Restaurant is just a 10-minute stroll from the Rockefeller Center. As such, it’s a perfect stop for a pre-theatre dinner or a late-night cheesecake craving.

Both locations serve a wide range of classic American dishes. At Junior’s you will find juicy burgers or succulent grilled chicken, along with their standout New York style cheesecake. Smooth, creamy, and irresistibly delicious, it’s no wonder why Junior’s is renowned as one of the best Rockefeller Center Restaurants. Are you seeking a twist to satisfy your palate? Then discover an array of specialty cheesecakes like the strawberry cheesecake and the indulgent chocolate swirl cheesecake.

Junior’s Cheesecake Restaurant is more than just a restaurant; it’s a part of New York City’s culinary history. Each location offers a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of the Big Apple. Whether you’re craving a satisfying meal or the best cheesecake in town, you’ll find it at Junior’s, one of the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center.

Locations:
1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2023 is a must-see Holiday Season Event in New York City and a key landmark for the best restaurants in Manhattan

Conclusion: the best restaurants near the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

In conclusion, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is more than just a symbol of the holiday season in New York. In fact, it is also an invitation to explore the vibrant culinary scene surrounding it. From authentic Italian to a taste of Brazil, from a classic American steakhouse experience to a French touch, these restaurants are sure to make your visit to the Christmas Tree even more memorable. The magic of the holiday season in New York truly comes alive when combined with these gastronomic delights. So, as you plan your visit to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in 2023, remember to make your experience more delicious by exploring these fantastic dining options. Enjoy the sparkle of the Christmas lights, the joy of the holiday season, and most importantly, the taste of New York!