The best of what’s open on Christmas Day in NYC

Chinatown is all aglow on Christmas Day. See the beautiful lanterns overhead as you make your way to some of the best Chinese food in the city. Definitely book your reservation beforehand, because this is a favorite Christmas Day tradition!

Restaurants Open On Christmas Day

When it comes to the holidays, there is nothing better than going out to eat with family and friends. However, finding restaurants open on Christmas Day can be quite challenging.

We have made it easier for you with this article and have compiled a list of as many restaurants open on Christmas Day in Orange County that we were able to find to make your life a little easier this holiday season.

Christmas Day will be celebrated next on Monday, December 25, 2023.

Note: Reservations are recommended, availability and price may vary.

Nova Kitchen and Bar

12361 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92840
714-696-0888

Nova Kitchen and Bar has quickly become one of the most celebrated restaurants in Garden Grove, and one visit there is all you need to know why. Their wide selection of sushi along with other gourmet options like wagyu filet, cajun ribeye and Korean short ribs make this a Christmas meal to remember.

Buca Di Beppo

1609 E Imperial Hwy., Brea, CA 92821
11757 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92840
7979 Center Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Additional Locations Nationwide

Buca Di Beppo’s family style dining makes it perfect for a Christmas meal with family. Whether you go with the ever popular stuffed pasta, or more traditional options like lasagna or baked ziti, everyone is sure to find something they love.

Agora Churrascaria

1830 Main Street, Irvine, CA 92614
949-222-9910

Agora Churrascaria in Irvine is one of the best Brazilian Steakhouses in Orange County, and the perfect place for a Christmas dinner. With tableside service of 14 different delicious cuts of meat, you won’t leave until you’re as stuffed as you are after the best home-cooked meals.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

13652 Jamboree Rd., Irvine, CA 92602
714-508-7990
Additional Locations Nationwide

While they may be most famous for their pasta, Romano’s Macaroni Grill has a host of other options for you to choose from as well. From steak and potatoes to Shrimp Portofino, their land and sea menu covers a wide array of entrees for the whole family to choose from.

Dave and Buster’s

661 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618
20 City Blvd. West, Orange, CA 92868
Additional Locations Nationwide

If you want to have some fun along with your dinner, Dave and Buster’s is the perfect place to go. From classic pub food like burgers and fish and chips to fire-grilled Atlantic salmon or New York Strip steak, you have plenty to choose from to eat and to play.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

321 W Katella Ave., Suite 101, Anaheim, CA 92802
714-635-4867
Additional Locations Nationwide

A restaurant famous for their shrimp and memorabilia from Forrest Gump, Bubba Gump’s is the perfect place if you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere for your dinner. With a menu spanning from seafood to burgers and pizza, there’s something for everyone here.

Orange Hill Restaurant

6410 East Chapman Ave., Orange, CA 92869
714-997-2910

This brunch buffet at Orange Hill offers a variety of delicious items for brunch, as well as a beautiful view of Southern California. The menu offers many options such as filet and eggs or lobster benedict which are hard to resist.

Nobu

3450 Via Oporto Suite 101, Newport Beach, CA 92663
949-429-4440
Additional Locations Nationwide

In case you are looking for a sophisticated dinner this Christmas, then Nobu will not disappoint. With locations all across the world, Nobu is one of the foremost names in the world of Japanese cuisine and high-end sushi restaurants. With dishes like squid ‘pasta’ with a light garlic sauce or black cod butter lettuce cups, you’ll feel absolutely spoiled.

Tangerine Room

1030 W Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802
657-279-9786

With a lavish Christmas buffet on offer this year at Tangerine Room, there is plenty of food to indulge in, including a delicious carving station and a seafood display that will be sure to please anyone’s palate this Christmas. In addition to the delicious meal, you’ll also be treated to live entertainment throughout the evening.

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse

Multiple locations in Orange County plus additional locations nationwide

With several locations across Orange County, BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse is great if you’re looking for a good Christmas meal close by. With their wide variety of handcrafted drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic) and a huge menu stretching from soups and salads to steaks and tacos, everyone is sure to find something to love.

The Capital Grille

3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714-432-1140
Additional Locations Nationwide

If you’re looking for a familiar but high-quality upscale Christmas dinner, The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa is the perfect place for you. From appetizers like prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella and tuna tartare to entrees such as lamb rib chops and filet mignon, The Capital Grille is perfect for your upscale holiday fare.

Catal Restaurant

1580 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802
714-774-4442

Located at Downtown Disney in the Disneyland Resort, Catal Restaurant is known for the delicious Mediterranean cuisine. While they are open on Christmas, their breakfast with Santa the day before cannot be missed out on for both parents and kids alike.

El Torito

Multiple locations in Orange County plus additional locations nationwide

For a less traditional Christmas meal, check out one of the many El Torito locations across Orange County. Their menu filled with Mexican cuisine like fajitas and enchiladas makes for a delicious meal any time of the year.

Pelican Grill

22800 S Pelican Hill Rd., Newport Coast, CA 92657
844-443-0022

Located at the Resort at Pelican Hill, the Pelican Grill is a local favorite that would make for a delicious Christmas dinner. Whether you’re looking for unique salads made from local ingredients or freshly grilled fish or steaks, the meal is sure to be one to remember.

Fogo de Chão

623 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618
949-398-1500
Additional locations nationwide

Eating too much is a must at any Christmas dinner, and there’s no better place for that than Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse. Order their Churrasco Experience to have continuous service of their signature cuts of fire-roasted meats and side dishes so you can eat until you’re full – and then more!

Tanner’s at Pasea Hotel and Resort

21080 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714-698-6130

Tanner’s at Pasea Hotel and Resort is perfect if you’re searching for a Christmas dinner with great food and great views. Here you can enjoy a floor-to-ceiling ocean view while feasting on everything from filet mignon to charred octopus.

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood

321 W Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802
714-535-9000
Additional Locations Nationwide

For a great seafood Christmas dinner, head to McCormick and Schmick’s Grille. They have a menu filled with several varieties of oysters, both raw and grilled fish, and steaks all conveniently located near Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center.

View at Vea Newport Beach

900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-640-4000

View at Vea Newport Beach is perfect for a California Christmas dinner. Featuring a number of dishes of California cuisine from Dungeness crab salad to Pan Roasted Halibut, View will be sure to satisfy anyone celebrating this special day.

Tocca Ferro Italian Chophouse

1775 S Clementine St., Anaheim, CA 92802
714-294-7800

Tocca Ferro’s ‘The Flavors of Joy Christmas Dinner’ is an experience that can’t be missed. Their three course meal offers the choice between a decadent ricotta gnocchi soup and roasted acorn squash salad to start, and the choice between sole that melts in your mouth and a grilled NY striploin for the main course!

Benihana

Multiple locations in Orange County plus additional locations nationwide

If you’re looking for a meal with a show included, Benihana is a great place to visit on Christmas. With a large selection of sushi along with seafood and steaks seared before your eyes, it will make a meal to remember.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

2041 South Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802 | 714-750-5466
2961 Michelson Drive, Irvine, CA 92612 | 949-252-8848
Additional Locations Nationwide

If you’re looking to treat your family to a nice meal for Christmas, stop by Ruth’s Chris Steak House. With their premium selection of steak cuts and signature side dishes, Ruth’s makes for an excellent Christmas present for the meat lover in your life.

The Cheesecake Factory

Multiple locations in Orange County plus additional locations nationwide

If your family has diverse tastes, The Cheesecake Factory is a great place to visit for your Christmas dinner. With their legendary 21-page menu, your whole family can order whatever they want, ranging from pizzas and burgers to chicken and steak.

Black Angus Steakhouse

Multiple locations in Orange County plus additional locations nationwide

If you’re looking for a special winter-themed Christmas dinner, Black Angus Steakhouse has the perfect meal for you. With a seasonal menu featuring a steak, snow crab, and grilled shrimp special, you’re sure to get into the winter spirit here.

More Local Restaurants Open On Christmas Day

• A + O Restaurant and Bar – Newport Beach
• Balboa Bay Resort – Newport Beach
• Bruno’s Italian Kitchen – Brea
• Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill – Huntington Beach, Newport Beach
• Habana – Costa Mesa, Irvine
• Hacienda On The Lake – Rancho Santa Margarita
• Hanagi – Anaheim
• Henry’s Coastal Cuisine – Huntington Beach
• Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen – Fullerton
• Kobe Japanese Steakhouse – Seal Beach
• Las Brisas – Laguna
• Mastro’s – Newport Beach, Irvine
• Malarkey’s – Newport Beach
• Montage – Laguna Beach
• Orange Hill – Orange
• Pelican Hill Resort – Newport Beach
• RA Sushi Bar – Tustin
• Ritz Carlton – Laguna Niguel
• RTE 22 Restaurant and Bar – Anaheim
• Roy’s – Anaheim
• Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar – Costa Mesa
• Solita Tacos and Margaritas – Huntington Beach
• Tanner’s at Pasea – Huntington Beach
• Top Of The V – Anaheim
• Wind and Sea Restaurant – Dana Point

Fast Food Restaurants Open on Christmas

Select locations may not be open, confirm before heading out.

More National Restaurants Open Christmas Day

Select locations may not be open, confirm before heading out.

• Acapulco
• Applebee’s
• Boston Market
• Chart House
• Del Frisco’s Grille
• Denny’s
• Gyu-Kaku
• IHOP
• Kona Grill
• Morton’s The Steakhouse
• Shoney’s
• SOL Mexican Cocina
• Texas de Brazil
• Waffle House

Morgan Mulac is a freelance writer who has spent years on the road as a nomad and now has settled back in California with her family. Some of her favorite spots to travel to in California are in Orange County and the many beaches along the coast. She’s an avid writer about her journeys and enjoys sharing the beauty California has to offer.

The best of what’s open on Christmas Day in NYC

Don’t stay in on December 25—New York City has plenty going on this Christmas Day, from dinners to theater.

Need plans for Christmas Day? Whether you are staying in the city, determined to get out of the house or don’t celebrate the holiday, there’s much to take advantage of the city on December 25. Perhaps the quietest and least crowded day of the year in the city that never takes a break, pop into a late-night club, an ice-skating rink or get high up at one of the city’s observation decks for some perspective.

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What’s open on Christmas Day

See the city from Summit One Vanderbilt

• Attractions
• Sightseeing
• Midtown East

See the city sparkle from Summit One Vanderbilt. After a trip through a mirrored hallway with its own immersive elements, visitors take an elevator up to the 91st floor, where they’re 1,000 feet over the streets and sidewalks of NYC. Kenzo Digital has created a totally mirrored infinity room called “Air” that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you’re walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Looking above you and below you in this two-story space, you see your reflection repeating forever.

Go ice skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center

There’s nothing quite as magical as ice skating in Rockefeller Center. Take Christmas Day to take the ice. It’s likely there will be less people in line and you’ll get more room to look up and enjoy the views as you glide on by the Prometheus.

Take in a night of jazz at Blue Note

Jazz up your holiday by catching a performance at the lively Greenwich Village musical hotspot. There will be toe-tapping, head-bopping tunes from the Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Chris Botti, who has recorded and performed with the likes of Sting, Yo-Yo Ma, Frank Sinatra, Joni Mitchell and Michael Buble. Night owls can go to get lost in the soulful saxophone sounds from Peter Valera and The Jump Blues Band during a midnight show, too.

See your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds New York

• Attractions
• Sightseeing
• Midtown West

A favorite among tourists and young, culture-obsessed visitors, this famous wax museum is open on Christmas Day. Without the obscene crowds of tourists, see the 200-plus wax figures, which include various movie stars, singers, athletes and politicians. Each model is painstakingly made by teams of artists through the use of precise measurements, photographs, casts and oil paints and costs a staggering $300,000 to create.

Get a frozen dessert at Serendipity 3

• Restaurants
• American
• Lenox Hill

Why not celebrate the holiday or make your weekend sweet at this cheery, kitschy East Side family spot, where sandwiches, salads and burgers merely set you up for the main course: dessert. The trademarked Frrrozen Hot Chocolate—a brain-freezing chocolate slushie—deserves its reputation; the massive beast should be shared. Given the size of the Coward’s Portion of the Outrageous Banana Split, we’re guessing the full-size version comes in a trough.

See a Broadway show

Yes, some Broadway performances are happening on Christmas Day! Here are our theater critics’ top choices among the shows that are currently playing on the Great White Way.

Visit Chinatown

Chinatown is all aglow on Christmas Day. See the beautiful lanterns overhead as you make your way to some of the best Chinese food in the city. Definitely book your reservation beforehand, because this is a favorite Christmas Day tradition!

Get up high at Edge Observation Deck

Get the highest view of NYC from the tallest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere at Hudson Yards. T he bird’s-eye attraction dubbed Edge is well worth a visit—that is, if you’re not afraid of heights. The building’s outdoor terrace takes you 65-feet into the sky making it the highest public balcony in NYC. The deck not only features panoramic views of our city’s skyline, but a killer vantage point below. Brave souls can stand on a large, see-through glass floor and wave to passerby 1,100 feet beneath. Much like the Top of the Rock concept at Rockefeller Center, there’s a 10,000-square-foot bar, restaurant called Peak and event space on the 101th floor.