Taking the family out to eat in Manhattan during the holiday season should be a fun-filled experience. From the tree lighting in Rockefeller Center, ice skating at Bryant Park to visiting Santa at Macy’s, it really is a magical place for children (and adults) of all ages.
Exploring the restaurant scene should be just as enjoyable – and MiniMunchers is here to help you navigate the many restaurants of NYC to find the ones that are BEST for your holiday plans.
Here are five places that we have enjoyed as a family, and hope you will be able to fit into your holiday plans.
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1. Landmarc (www.landmarc-restaurant.com) – After checking out the outdoor holiday shops at Columbus Circle, head inside the Time Warner Center to Landmarc! Landmarc has one of the most extensive children’s menus that I have ever seen and really knows what kids want – from standards like macaroni and cheese and chicken fingers with fries to green eggs and ham, PB and Nutella or a petit filet mignon. Of course the views of Central Park could almost trump any meal you get. BONUS, if your kids/your tip %u263A are really good – your server might bring cotton candy to the table for dessert! After you eat, kids will be amazed by the free music and light show in the atrium of the Time Warner Center.
2. Rolf’s (www.rolfsnyc.com) – Ok they do NOT have a children’s menu, so I really have no business recommending Rolf’s but any NYer has to admit that a trip to Rolf’s is a MUST over the holidays. You have NEVER seen so many decorations in your life – your kids will go crazy (no sugar needed!) This Gramercy restaurant is small – so leave the strollers at home, and since many people make Rolf’s an annual visit, it can get crowded so do try to go at off times. They have highchairs and kids will enjoy the sides more then anything (potato pancakes, French fries, spatzle) but of course there is Bratwurst, Knockwurst and Weisswurst for more advernturous eaters. But do NOT expect your kids to be catered to – this is a real tavern type of atmosphere so kids are welcome if not welcomed.
3. Russian Tea Room (www.RussianTeaRoomNYC.com) One of the LAST remaining iconic restaurants in Manhattan, the Russian Tea Room is a treat for children and adults! Just step into this jewel-box restaurant, and your tot will know it is a special day! Conveniently located on the same block as Carnegie Hall, it is a great place to come after a concert or a carriage ride in Central Park. The children’s tea is $25 a child (under 12) and the multiple courses will be sure to please any budding foodie.
4. Macy’s Cellar Bar & Grill (www.patinagroup.com) – A hidden find in Macy’s, this bar & grill has a great children’s menu and the location CANNOT be beat when taking your minis to see Santa. I would recommend reservations, just in case the word gets out that this underground spot is great for kids (highchairs, big bathroom, etc.)
5. Moomah – (www.Moomah.com)– Moomah is a great spot to bring your tot in TriBeCa. Not only is the extensive menu local, seasonal AND organic (with dairy-free and gluten-free choices) but kids are encouraged to play while they eat with incredibly beautiful and engrossing holiday art projects! After making gifts for grandma and grandpa, if you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, children can explore and use their imaginations in the back room or “funky forest”
To check out these restaurants children’s menus and to see reviews on these and many more NYC kid-friendly spots, check out www.MiniMunchers.com. Happy Munching and Happy Holidays!
