You Won't Believe These Top-Rated Restaurants Are Serving On Christmas – Don't Miss Out!

You Won't Believe These Top-Rated Restaurants Are Serving On Christmas – Don't Miss Out!

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the annual dilemma: spend hours slaving over a hot stove or enjoy a stress-free Christmas dinner at a top-rated restaurant? If you're nodding along, you're not alone! This year, skip the cooking and discover an array of fantastic dining options that will make your Christmas truly special. From festive feasts to cozy takeout, there's something for everyone.

Christmas dinner is often the centerpiece of holiday celebrations, but let's face it – preparing a full spread can be overwhelming. Between shopping for ingredients, prepping dishes, and cleaning up afterward, it's no wonder some people opt out of cooking on Christmas in favor of something that might make their lives a little easier. Whether you're seeking a basic takeout option or a cozy spot for dining in with a group, restaurants across the country are stepping up to make your holiday bright.

Chain Restaurants Serving Special Holiday Dinners

These 11 chain restaurants are open and serving special holiday dinners on Christmas Eve or Day, ensuring you can enjoy a festive meal without lifting a finger. From classic turkey dinners to prime rib and ham, these establishments have you covered. Here's a list of restaurants you can visit:

  • Applebee's: Known for their casual dining experience, Applebee's offers a holiday menu featuring roasted turkey, glazed ham, and all the fixings.
  • Red Lobster: Seafood lovers can indulge in their famous shrimp scampi or lobster tail, paired with seasonal sides.
  • Outback Steakhouse: Enjoy a hearty prime rib dinner or their signature Bloomin' Onion as part of their Christmas specials.
  • Olive Garden: Italian classics like lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo are on the menu, along with festive desserts.
  • Texas Roadhouse: Sink your teeth into their hand-cut steaks or fall-off-the-bone ribs, served with holiday-themed sides.

Our roundup of restaurants open on Christmas will do you right, whether you're seeking basic takeout or a cozy spot for dining in with a group – provided you call your local chain to confirm before hanging up your apron, that is. Many chains adjust their hours or menus for the holiday, so it's always a good idea to double-check.

Festive Dining Experiences Across America

These are the most festive restaurants in America, where twinkling lights, towering wreaths, and themed menus turn a meal into a celebration. From coast to coast, these establishments go all out to create a magical atmosphere. From turkey to ham to prime rib and more, these 25+ restaurants will be open and ready to serve up Christmas food on Christmas Day to make your holiday bright.

In New York City, iconic spots like The Plaza Hotel's Palm Court and Gramercy Tavern offer lavish holiday menus that are sure to impress. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, top restaurants like Spago and Nobu Malibu are serving festive dinners that blend gourmet cuisine with holiday cheer. If you're in Chicago, Alinea and The Purple Pig are among the city's best options for a memorable Christmas meal.

For those who prefer a more casual vibe, many fast-food chains and local diners are also open on Christmas. Here are all the restaurants open on the big day if cooking just isn't in your plans. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a full feast, there's no shortage of options.

Tips for Securing a Last-Minute Spot

If you're not into cooking this year, check out one of these restaurants open on Christmas Day. It'll save you time (and plenty of dirty dishes!). But what if you're making plans at the last minute? You can also call a local restaurant directly to try and secure a last-minute spot. Many establishments keep a few tables open for walk-ins or last-minute reservations, so it never hurts to ask.

Additionally, consider exploring other popular cuisines and restaurants near you from over 7 million businesses with over 142 million reviews and opinions from Yelpers. This can help you discover hidden gems or highly-rated spots that you might not have considered.

Fine Dining and Michelin-Guide Honorees

Many of our acclaimed restaurants, resort eateries, and Michelin Guide honorees will offer special holiday menus, so leave the cooking to Santa's elves and enjoy the greatest gift of all – time spent together. These establishments often go above and beyond to create unforgettable dining experiences, complete with wine pairings, live music, and festive decor.

In cities like San Francisco, The French Laundry and Benu are offering exquisite holiday menus that showcase their culinary prowess. In Miami, Joe's Stone Crab and Nobu Miami are serving up seafood feasts that are perfect for a warm-weather Christmas celebration.

Thanksgiving and Christmas: A Comparison

Just when you've gotten over the residual stress from cooking at Thanksgiving, here comes Christmas dinner. Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 28, but the good news is that many restaurants in LA are open on December 24 and 25 and will do it all for you. This means you can enjoy two stress-free holidays in a row, without the hassle of meal prep or cleanup.

For those who want to extend the festive dining experience, Trending 34 restaurants open on Thanksgiving if you don't feel like cooking make this year's holiday the least stressful in memory by dining out at one of these restaurants open on Thanksgiving. Many of these spots also offer special menus for Christmas, so you can plan ahead for both holidays.

Los Angeles and New York City: Holiday Dining Hotspots

Skip the cooking this Christmas with top LA restaurants serving festive dinners. From Spago to Nobu Malibu, LA's dining scene is buzzing with holiday cheer. These restaurants offer everything from traditional Christmas fare to innovative takes on holiday classics, ensuring there's something for every palate.

Meanwhile, the best restaurants open on Christmas Eve and Day in NYC make plans for dinner on December 24 and December 25, 2023. NYC's best restaurants include casual spots, fine dining destinations, and all the best places in town to eat and drink. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy Italian trattoria or a high-end steakhouse, NYC has you covered.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive guide on what restaurants are open on Christmas Day in 2023 will help you have a delightful holiday dining experience. From chain restaurants to fine dining establishments, there's no shortage of options for those looking to skip the cooking and enjoy a stress-free Christmas. So, gather your loved ones, make your reservations, and get ready to savor a festive meal that's sure to make your holiday bright.

11 Chain Restaurants Serving Christmas Dinner This Year
10 San Antonio restaurants serving Christmas Day
10 San Antonio restaurants serving Christmas Day