There’s nothing better than enjoying a winter’s day checking out holiday lights and window displays, especially if the route includes the famous Rockefeller Center tree. A long day of exploration will make anyone hungry, but don’t let being hangry spoil the outing. We’ve rounded up a list of restaurants near the tree of trees to take the guesswork out of planning. Read on to pick the best stop to fuel up for a day of festivity.
Hatsuhana | 17 E 48th Street
(Photo credit: Hatsuhana)
Hatsuhana is a casual sushi restaurant that offers high-quality sushi and Japanese food. It opened its doors back in 1976 and has remained a local favorite since then. With fresh ingredients and amazing attention to detail, it’s no wonder why Hatsuhana would be a great, refreshing choice to visit after visiting Rockefeller.
Marseille | 630 Ninth Avenue
(Photo credit: @marseillenyc)
Marseille is the French brasserie of Broadway and Hell’s Kitchen. It offers heated outdoor dining in addition to its main indoor space. Diners like Marseille for its traditional brasserie-style menu with choices like French onion soup, bouillabaisse, and mussels. Patrons who time it right will also get to enjoy the oyster happy hour, which happens daily from 3:30PM – 5:30PM.
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Nizza | 630 Ninth Avenue
(Photo credit: @nizzanyc)
This Italian spot is a local favorite. Patrons can catch some dinner before or after seeing the tree or ice-skating since it is so close to Rockefeller Center. The menu at Nizza is full of Italian classics like pizzas and pasta but updated with many gluten-free choices. Every Thursday is lasagna day, and the lasagna here is made with a chef’s blend of freshly ground meats and house-made pasta. This is definitely the spot to warm up from the inside out.
Oceana | 120 W 49th Street
(Photo credit: @oceananyc)
This American seafood restaurant’s proximity to the Rockefeller Center is an ideal choice for having a meal before seeing the tree. Oceana is well known for its hospitality, award-winning wine list, and world-class cuisine from its executive chefs. While the fresh seafood may be the headline-grabber, the rest of the menu is worth attention too. The pastas are made in-house and much of the meat is locally sourced. Heads up – this spot is closed on Sundays.
See More: Miracle on Mercer: The Holiday Pop-Up in Jersey City That Locals Are Loving
Osteria La Baia | 129 West 52 Street
(Photo credit: @labaianyc)
Osteria La Baia is one of the city’s newest additions. The menu is Italian cuisine inspired by Italy’s seaside towns, and the fresh, laid-back vibes are evident in the menu and the dining room. There are seafood choices galore, but also meats, pastas, and creative vegetarian dishes. We like the classics-with-a-twist cocktail menu that makes use of fresh juices, spices, and even fruits and vegetables to make a memorable pour.
Toloache | 251 W 50th Street
(Photo credit: @toloachenyc)
For more south of the border cuisine, Toloache offers modern Mexican dishes with a side of traditional atmosphere. The tacos are a must-try: pair with a refreshing cocktail for the ultimate experience. The bright interior will revive a weary explorer and there is heated outdoor seating as well.
