This time of year, it gets dark early. The night often comes before any of us have had enough of the sun. That’s where lights come in—in particular, Christmas lights. They provide illumination during a season when the night can seem to last forever. When it comes to cozy restaurant environments that provide Christmas cheer—and, yes, a whole lot of lights—in New York, there isn’t much better than Rolf’s. The interior of this German spot provides a dazzling light show. It might just be the perfect Christmas restaurant in New York City. To learn more, keep reading below.

Though Rolf’s is open all year, it really comes alive around the Christmas season. In New York, it is a holiday institution. Reservations are extremely hard to come by, though, so it’s worth making one far, far in advance.
Steven Cohen/Google Reviews
Though Rolf’s opened in the late 1960s, it was in the early 1980s that it started working on the decor that now defines the venue and makes it one of the most legendary restaurants in the entire city.
Frank Couture/Google Reviews
The Rolf’s interior is full of technicolor lights, German antiques, and various sundry decorations. It’s a sight to behold. Visitors are truly taken to a magical realm beyond any everyday reality—a perfect way to spend the holidays.
Frank Couture/Google Reviews

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The Christmas decorations are designed by a team of five artists, with over 200,000 lights hung around the restaurant. Rolf’s says that their goal is to manifest a Victorian, turn-of-the-century kind of environment. We say that they accomplished that mission!
Mike Harris/Google Reviews
The German food is just as traditional and classic as the decor. To eat, there are seasonal roast suckling pig, sauerbraten, potato panes, and beautiful sausages. It’s a hearty meal that is perfect for the cold weather season.
Alissa Hodge/Google Reviews
Then there are the beers. Any fan of the German brewing tradition will be in heaven here. Visitors can also enjoy such cozy holiday cocktail classics as spiced egg-nog, mulled wine or hot apple cider.
Jason R/Google Reviews
Rolf’s is also a great place to visit off season, when it is a lot less busy. It’s a great place to get that Christmas card photo taken long before the season starts.
Felipe Galvan/Google Reviews

For a beautiful and tasty Christmas meal, check out Rolf’s. Have you been to this perfect Christmas restaurant in New York City? While in New York City, why not also check out one of the world’s largest department stores? And for those looking for a place to stay in the city, we recommend Hotel Edison Times Square.

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Rolf's, 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010, USA