Shop and Dine in New York City for the Holidays 

New York City is now decorated in the season’s best style with the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, Macy’s Store Windows, the classic Christmas tree at Metropolitan Museum, and so much more.  Whether you’re topping off your gift list or just planning a day of browsing around the city and enjoying the festive season, we have restaurants that can be enjoyed in many neighborhoods of the Manhattan.  

The Met and Met Breuer on the Upper East Side – The museum shops always have unique gifts for people of all ages. And while you enjoy the Met’s charming shops and fascinating exhibits, dine at their restaurants and cafes.  There are many excellent choices right on premises.  Visit: The Metropolitan Museum.  

Union Square – The outdoor market at Union Square is in full swing with gifts that are sure to please everyone on your list.  Just around the corner on East 13^th Street is Taboonette, a casual eatery that specializes in delicious “Middleteranean” cuisine. Visit: Taboonette.  

Herald Square – The Macy’s windows are gorgeous this year and there are plenty of opportunities to shop in the area.  Monarch Rooftop bar, conveniently located on West 35^th Street is enclosed for the season and features a fantastic view of the Empire State Building.  Stop by for drinks and a nice variety of food. You may be interested in their annual Gingerbread Decorating Contest of New Year’s Eve bash. Visit: Monarch. (Photo at top.)

Times Square – Whether you are visiting the theatre, taking in the lights of Times Square, or shopping, there are many restaurants that make your outing a pleasure.  For those that like Cuban cuisine, you’ll enjoy a meal at Victor’s Café on West 52^nd Street.  This family restaurant has been pleasing their guests for over 50 years. Visit: Victor’s Cafe.  And Junior’s Restaurant with two locations in the heart of Times Square offers meals for all tastes and styles along with their luscious cheesecake.  Visit: Junior’s. P.S. Kitchen on West 48th Street is a very special vegan restaurant that serves delicious food for lunch, brunch, dinner, and dessert.  Their mission is to create jobs for marginalized New Yorkers and donate 100% of their profits to sustainable charities. Visit: P.S. Kitchen

Rockefeller Center – Just steps from the grand Christmas tree is one of our favorite French bistros that has been in the neighborhood for 40 years.  Check out La Bonne Soupe on 55^th between 5^th and 6^th. Visit: La Bonne Soupe. For a classic, satisfying meal experience, dine at a neighborhood favorite, Mastro’s Steakhouse. Visit: Mastro’s Restaurant. 

Grand Central Station – Stop by for the shops or to enjoy this iconic and historic transportation hub. The lower concourse features many grab and go eateries.  We like to stop off for a while to relax over drinks and Italian food at Prova Pizzabar by Chef Donatella Arpaia. Visit: Prova Pizzabar.  Just a few blocks away on East 44^th Street is Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse, a quintessential New York meal experience.  Visit: Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse. 

Midtown East – The holiday season isn’t complete without a trip to Bloomingdales.  Just across the street from the department store is a lovely Greek restaurant, Anassa Taverna. It is ideal for cocktails, small plates or a full, dinner.  Visit: Anassa Taverna. 

Chelsea and the Meatpacking District – Browse the galleries and take a walk along the High Line.  Be sure to make a trip to Chelsea Market with a top selection of food and foodie gifts.  Visit: Chelsea Market.  We also love Roth Bar by Great Performances at Hauser & Worth on West 22^nd Street for delightful farm to table fare.  Stop by for coffee, lunch or an early dinner. Visit: Roth Bar by Great Performances at Hauser & Worth.