Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in December
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in December
1. Bryant Park Winter Village
A sparkling open-air market wrapped around Bryant Park’s rink, where kiosks dish out comfort classics—truffle fries, raclette, bao, hand pies, and steaming mugs of cider—perfect for braving the crisp December air.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a one-stop taste of NYC’s winter treats, with dozens of small vendors slinging seasonal bites alongside giftable artisanal foods.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons or evenings in early December for shorter lines; post-Christmas weekdays stay lively but less packed.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring cashless payment and share plates to sample more stalls; circle the rink’s perimeter to find smaller kiosks with hidden gems.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the festive atmosphere and variety, calling it a cozy, crowd-pleasing way to eat around NYC in December.
2. Grand Central Holiday Fair
Inside Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall, this elegant holiday market pairs crafts and gifts with a curated selection of gourmet purveyors—ideal for edible souvenirs and quick bites between Midtown sights.
✓ Why Go:
It’s indoors (warm!), beautifully decorated, and central to iconic landmarks, making it an easy, weatherproof food stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-mornings on weekdays; avoid rush hour when commuters flood the terminal.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up small-batch chocolates or spiced nuts here, then hop to the Dining Concourse for classic NYC staples.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the convenience and ambiance, noting it feels quintessentially New York during the holidays.
3. Chelsea Market
A sprawling indoor food hall in the Meatpacking District where you can graze from lobster rolls and tacos to artisanal donuts—plus shelves of gourmet gifts for your holiday list.
✓ Why Go:
It’s warm, walkable, and endlessly snackable, with something for every palate under one roof.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays or early evenings after 6 pm; weekends get shoulder-to-shoulder in December.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start with a small bite at several counters instead of a full meal to sample more; detour to the High Line for a brisk photo op afterward.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Food lovers rave about the diversity and quality, calling it a must for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.
4. Eataly Flatiron
This sprawling Italian marketplace goes full-on festive with panettone towers, truffle specials, hot chocolate, and cozy pastas—plus espresso to power your holiday shopping.
✓ Why Go:
December brings limited-edition Italian sweets and hearty, cold-weather dishes that feel straight out of a winter trattoria.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late evenings; early December offers the best selection of giftable imports.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the bakery first for seasonal panettone flavors before they sell out; ask staff for pairing ideas with dessert wines.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests applaud the festive energy and authentic flavors, calling it a delicious Italian escape from the chill.
5. Rolf’s German Restaurant
A beloved Gramercy spot famed for its over-the-top Christmas decorations and hearty German comfort food—think schnitzel, sausages, and warming stews.
✓ Why Go:
The dazzling decor plus stick-to-your-ribs plates make it a uniquely New York December tradition.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late lunch on weekdays; evenings in December require patience or a reservation.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order sharables and a seasonal drink, then snap photos after your meal when the dining room briefly thins.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe it as festive and fun—worth the wait for the holiday spectacle and winter fare.
6. Dominique Ansel Bakery
SoHo’s pastry temple rolls out whimsical seasonal creations—think holiday cruffins, bûche de Noël, and rich hot chocolate—alongside its cult classics.
✓ Why Go:
December menus spotlight imaginative, limited-run desserts perfect for celebrating (or gifting) sweet tooths.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Right at opening to avoid sellouts; weekday mornings are best.
✓ Insider Tip:
If a special pastry is sold out, ask about later tray times; grab a hot chocolate to enjoy while you wait.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans love the creativity and balance of flavors, calling it destination-worthy pastry art.
7. 2nd Ave Deli
A storied kosher-style deli where crisp-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside latkes take center stage in December, alongside soul-warming matzo ball soup and pastrami.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a delicious way to honor Hanukkah traditions while experiencing New York’s deli heritage.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early lunch or late afternoon; dinner lines build quickly during holiday weeks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for applesauce and sour cream on the side for perfect latke dipping; split a sandwich to save room for rugelach.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the classic flavors and generous portions, calling it a winter comfort-food essential.
8. Arthur Avenue Retail Market
In Bronx Little Italy, this old-school indoor market brims with fresh mozzarella, cured meats, torrone, and festive breads—your panettone paradise.
✓ Why Go:
December brings peak Italian holiday baking and convivial neighborhood vibes away from Midtown crowds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings for full vendor energy; arrive early for the best bakery selection.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up fresh pasta and a panettone, then grab an espresso and people-watch at a counter seat.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers call it authentic and welcoming, a flavorful detour that feels like a local secret.
9. Jacques Torres Chocolate DUMBO
Home of NYC’s famed thick hot chocolate—spiced or classic—plus truffles and seasonal confections to warm you after waterfront photos.
✓ Why Go:
Few things beat decadent hot chocolate on a chilly December stroll through DUMBO’s cobblestones and skyline views.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon on weekdays; evenings are cozy but busier.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the Wicked Hot Chocolate for a gentle kick; pair with a cookie for dunking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors swoon over the velvety texture and balanced sweetness, calling it a winter must-sip.
10. The Palm Court at The Plaza
The Plaza’s storied Palm Court serves an elegant holiday afternoon tea with seasonal pastries, finger sandwiches, and sparkling ambiance steps from Fifth Avenue lights.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quintessential New York winter indulgence—festive, refined, and perfectly positioned for Midtown holiday sightseeing.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Book midweek seatings to avoid peak crowds; early December slots are the most flexible.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve well ahead and request a table beneath the stained-glass dome for the full effect.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests describe it as magical and timeless, praising the service, presentation, and holiday vibe.
