Unforgettable Holiday Dining
Experiences in New Jersey
Best New Jersey Restaurants for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Winter Holiday Family Celebrations
Unforgettable Holiday Dining Experiences in New Jersey await those craving festive flavors, cozy ambiance, and seasonal magic. Whether you're planning a festive NJ Thanksgiving or Christmas family dinner, or a cheerful Hoilday brunch with family, New Jersey's vibrant culinary scene offers something for every palate and occasion.
From charming small-town eateries decked in holiday décor to upscale restaurants serving gourmet holiday menus, this guide will help you discover the most memorable places to dine this season. Explore the best spots for unforgettable holiday dining experiences in New Jersey—and make this year's celebrations truly special.
Key takeaways
- Book early for new jersey winter holiday dining, especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Many spots offer special menus on Thanksgiving and Christmas with turkey and seasonal sides.
- Waterfront and historic venues fill up fast, so reserve as soon as dates open.
- Many NJ restaurants serving a Christmas menu are not open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Check their website to confirm the since schedules and menus can change.
Northern New Jersey Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday Dining Favorites
1776 by David Burke
Morristown, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at 1776 by David Burke, NJ, where Thanksgiving and Christmas dining transforms into a festive family experience. Savor chef-curated seasonal menus featuring elevated American classics, holiday-inspired cocktails, and whimsical desserts in a warm, artfully decorated setting. Perfect for family gatherings, this award-winning restaurant blends culinary innovation with cozy elegance—making it a top choice for NJ Christmas dinner and Thanksgiving brunch
Adega Grill
Newark, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with warmth and flavor at Adega Grill, your go-to destination for festive family dining. From Thanksgiving feasts featuring slow-roasted turkey and seasonal sides to Christmas dinners adorned with Portuguese classics and holiday cocktails, Adega offers a cozy, upscale atmosphere perfect for gathering with loved ones. With elegant décor, kid-friendly options, and group reservations available, it’s the ideal spot for holiday dining in New Jersey.
Anthony David’s
Hoboken, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable family dining at Anthony David’s where Thanksgiving comes alive with seasonal charm and gourmet flair. From cozy candlelit tables to festive prix fixe menus featuring roasted turkey, prime rib, and decadent desserts, this neighborhood gem offers a warm, upscale setting perfect for holiday gatherings. With planning a Thanksgiving dinner, Anthony David’s blends classic comfort with culinary sophistication, making it one of the top NJ holiday restaurants for families seeking memorable moments and mouthwatering meals.
Blue Morel
Morristown, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Blue Morel Restaurant & Wine Bar in Morristown, NJ, where Thanksgiving dining becomes a festive family affair. Nestled in the heart of North Jersey, Blue Morel offers a refined farm-to-table experience with seasonal menus crafted by award-winning chefs. Families can enjoy Thanksgiving prix fixe dinners featuring traditional favorites with a modern twist, surrounded by elegant décor and warm hospitality. Perfect for holiday dining in NJ, Blue Morel blends gourmet cuisine with cozy ambiance—ideal for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Chart House
Weehawken, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable waterfront views and festive family dining at Chart House. This holiday, indulge in Thanksgiving and Christmas specials featuring chef-crafted menus, seasonal cocktails, and panoramic sights of the New York City skyline. Whether you're gathering for a cozy holiday brunch or a dazzling Christmas dinner, Chart House offers a warm, elegant setting perfect for families seeking memorable holiday dining in New Jersey.
Chez Catherine
Westfield, NJ
Celebrate the Thanksgiving in elegant French style at Chez Catherine, where Thanksgiving dining becomes a cherished family tradition. This intimate, award-winning restaurant offers seasonal prix fixe menus featuring classic French dishes with festive flair—think roasted turkey with Provençal herbs and decadent bûche de Noël. Families can enjoy warm hospitality, and a refined yet cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
Crystal Springs Resort
Vernon, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable family dining at Crystal Springs Resort where Thanksgiving and Christmas come alive with festive flair. Indulge in lavish buffets featuring holiday classics, carving stations, and decadent desserts, all set in a cozy mountain retreat. With live entertainment, seasonal décor, and even surprise visits from Santa, the resort's Thanksgiving and Christmas dining experiences offer warmth, joy, and gourmet delights for all ages. Perfect for families seeking holiday dining in New Jersey, Crystal Springs blends culinary excellence with magical moments
Felina Steak at Hudson House
Jersey City, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at Felina Steak at Hudson House, NJ. This waterfront gem offers festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve menus featuring premium steaks, seasonal sides, and decadent desserts—all served in a warm, elegantly decorated setting. Whether you're gathering for a holiday brunch or a cozy dinner, Felina Steak delivers a refined yet family-friendly experience perfect for creating cherished memories. .
Fresco Da Franco
Montclair, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable family dining at Fresco Da Franco. This restaurant gem offers a festive Italian twist on Thanksgiving and Christmas with seasonal à la carte menus and traditional favorites like tacchino porcini (porcini turkey breast), pumpkin ravioli, and the iconic Feast of the Seven Fishes. With its warm ambiance, kid-friendly options, and elegant décor, Fresco Da Franco is the perfect destination for family holiday dinners in Montclair.
Grain House Restaurant at the Olde Mill Inn
Basking Ridge, NJ
Celebrate Thanksgiving with heartwarming family dining at the Grain House Restaurant, nestled within the historic Olde Mill Inn. For Thanksgiving enjoy a chef-crafted four-course plated dinner featuring herb-basted turkey, seasonal sides, and decadent desserts in a cozy, colonial setting. The Grain House transforms into a festive retreat with traditional American fare, glowing fireplaces, and rustic charm—perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Hunan Taste – Denville & Montclair, NJ
Since 1986, Hunan Taste has treated Morris County to refined Chinese cooking and standout presentation. The Hsiung family built a loyal fan base by focusing on technique and consistency. Inside, carved wood, Chinese art, and large aquariums set an elegant tone for Child friendly, Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.
The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and Tavern
Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in timeless style at The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern, a historic gem offering festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining perfect for families. Enjoy chef-crafted seasonal menus featuring classics like roasted turkey with traditional sides on Thanksgiving, and elegant Christmas Eve specials such as crab-stuffed mushrooms and pan-seared halibut, With cozy indoor fireplaces and a charming ambiance, this beloved Bergen County destination blends warmth, tradition, and culinary excellence for unforgettable holiday gatherings.blends warmth, tradition, and culinary excellence for unforgettable holiday gatherings.
Ninety Acres
Peapack, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at Ninety Acres where Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve menus showcase farm-to-table elegance in a cozy, rustic setting. Nestled within the Natirar estate, this culinary gem offers chef-crafted holiday feasts featuring locally sourced ingredients, festive décor, and warm hospitality. Families can enjoy seasonal favorites—from heritage turkey and winter vegetables to decadent desserts—while relaxing in a charming countryside atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
Rails Steakhouse
Towaco, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Rails Steakhouse where families can enjoy festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining in a warm, rustic-chic setting. Known for its slow-roasted turkey feasts with all the traditional sides—including butternut squash soup, maple-glazed sweet potatoes, and homemade pies—Rails offers both dine-in and takeout options perfect for stress-free gatherings. During Christmas, guests can expect seasonal specialties, cozy fireplaces, and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for memorable family meals.
Restaurant Serenade
Chatham, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at
Restaurant Serenade where Chef James Laird crafts holiday magic with refined, locally inspired cuisine. For Thanksgiving, enjoy a gourmet feast featuring slow-roasted turkey, traditional sides, and house-made pies—perfect for stress-free gatherings at home. During Christmas Eve, families can indulge in elegant prix fixe menus or host intimate celebrations in Serenade’s cozy private dining spaces. With warm hospitality and festive flavors, Restaurant Serenade transforms holiday meals into cherished memories.
Sofia
Englewood, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Sofia, where families can enjoy festive Thanksgiving and Christmas dining in a warm, elegant setting. Known for its upscale Italian cuisine and cozy ambiance, Sofia offers seasonal menus featuring traditional favorites like roasted turkey, prime rib, and decadent desserts. Whether you're gathering for a Thanksgiving feast or a Christmas Eve & Day dinner, Sofia provides a memorable experience with attentive service, family-friendly options, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations in Bergen County.
Ventanas
Fort Lee, NJ
Christmas dining transforms into a festive family affair. With a vibrant blend of Modern-American, Asian, and Latin fusion cuisine, families can indulge in seasonal specials, elegant dأcor, and warm hospitality for a Thanksgiving festive dinner. Ventanas offers upscale ambiance, kid-friendly options, and curated menus perfect for creating lasting memories.
Waterside Restaurant
North Bergen, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Waterside Restaurant where Thanksgiving and Christmas dining becomes a festive family affair. Nestled along the Hudson River with panoramic NYC views, Waterside offers seasonal menus featuring slow-roasted turkey, gourmet sides, and decadent desserts for Thanksgiving, plus elegant Christmas Eve and Day specials crafted by culinary institute-trained chefs. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating, semi-private dining options, and a warm, upscale ambiance, itقs the perfect waterfront destination for unforgettable holiday gatherings.
Central New Jersey Holiday Dining Favorites
Avenue
Long Branch, NJ
Celebrate Thanksgiving in style at Avenue where families can enjoy oceanfront dining with festive flair. For Thanksgiving, Avenue offers a specially curated three-course menu featuring seasonal favorites and classic holiday dishes, perfect for a cozy family gathering. Guests are treated to elegant French-inspired cuisine in a warm, coastal setting, ideal for both intimate dinners and joyful celebrations. With panoramic views of the Atlantic and a reputation for upscale hospitality, Avenue is a top choice for holiday dining in Monmouth County.
Drifthouse by David Burke
Sea Bright, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with coastal flair at Drifthouse by David Burke where Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining becomes a festive family tradition. Enjoy panoramic ocean views and a chef-curated menu featuring elevated seasonal classics, including slow-roasted turkey, savory sides, and decadent desserts. With spacious seating, kid-friendly options, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Drifthouse offers the perfect setting for memorable holiday gatherings.
Frog and The Peach
New Brunswick, NJ
Celebrate Thankgiving and Christmas Eve with an unforgettable family dining experience at The Frog and The Peach. This award-winning farm-to-table restaurant offers a festive Thanksgiving prix fixe menu featuring roasted free-range turkey with black truffle stuffing, seasonal sides, and decadent desserts. Families can expect warm hospitality, elegant dأecor, and Chef Bruce Lefebvreقs creative American cuisine crafted with local ingredients. With limited seating and kid-friendly options, its the perfect spot for memorable holiday gatherings in Central Jersey.
Judy’s – Asbury Park, NJ
Judy's pairs Jewish and Italian-American comfort food with a polished touch. Chef David Viana, a three-time James Beard Award nominee, teams with Neilly Robinson on a menu that feels playful and familiar at once. Judy’s sits at the back for a more personal experience, while Harry’s next door offers a bar and lounge. Judy's offers a festive Thanksging and Chrismas dinner prepared with inventive takes on classics, Italian flavors, and seasonal local ingredients.
Lambertville Station
Lambertville, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable family dining where cozy riverside charm meets festive flavor. At Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn, families can enjoy lavish Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day dining with a special holiday menu for guests. Whether you're gathering for turkey or toasting with holiday cheer, Lambertville Station historic and welcoming ambiance make it a top destination for Thanksgiving and Christmas dining in New Jersey.
Laurea
Princeton, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Laurea where family-friendly dining meets festive Italian flair. This season, Laurea invites guests to savor Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve with thoughtfully curated menus featuring seasonal favorites, warm hospitality, and a cozy ambiance perfect for gatherings. From slow-roasted turkey and classic sides to elegant Christmas Eve specials, Laurea blends tradition with modern comfortقmaking it a top choice for holiday dining in Princeton.
Metuchen Inn
Metuchen, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with timeless elegance at Metuchen Inn where Thanksgiving and Christmas dining becomes a cherished family tradition. Nestled in a historic setting, the Inn offers festive prix fixe menus featuring seasonal favorites like roasted turkey, prime rib, and decadent desserts. Families can enjoy warm hospitality, beautifully decorated dining rooms, and a cozy ambiance perfect for holiday gatherings. Whether you're planning for a Thanksgiving feast, a Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day dinner, Metuchen Inn delivers a memorable culinary experience for all ages.
Molly Pitcher Inn
Red Bank, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at the Molly Pitcher Inn where families can enjoy elegant Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Brunch dining with panoramic views of the Navesink River. Known for its seasonal brunches and festive menus, the Inn offers a warm, upscale atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings. From slow-roasted turkey and classic sides to gourmet desserts and live piano music, each experience blends tradition with luxury.
Orchard Park by David Burke
East Brunswick, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Orchard Park by David Burke where families can indulge in festive dining experiences that blend culinary artistry with seasonal charm. On Thanksgiving, enjoy a decadent three-course prix fixe menu featuring land and sea favorites, perfect for multigenerational gatherings. For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the restaurant transforms into a winter wonderland, offering innovative holiday menus in the elegant Chateau Grande Hotel setting. With kid-friendly options, whimsical desserts, and Chef Burkeقs signature flair, Orchard Park is a top destination for unforgettable family holiday dining in New Jersey.
Rats
Hamilton Township, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in storybook style at Ratقs Restaurant, where Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining becomes a magical family affair. Nestled within the Grounds for Sculpture, Ratقs offers seasonal menus featuring French-inspired fare, rustic fireplaces, and enchanting views that evoke a European village. Families can savor holiday classics with a gourmet twist, enjoy festive cocktails, and relax in an atmosphere designed for memorable gatherings. Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy Christmas Eve dinner, Ratقs delivers warmth, elegance, and culinary excellence perfect for all ages.
Red Horse by David Burke
Rumson, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Red Horse by David Burke where families are treated to an unforgettable dining experience. This award-winning steakhouse offers a festive Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menu featuring Chef Burke's signature salt-aged steaks, holiday turkey, and seasonal sides crafted with flair. With kid-friendly pricing and elegant ambiance, Red Horse is the perfect destination for family gatherings, holiday dinners, and special celebrations along the Jersey Shore.
Salt Creek Grille
Rumson, NJ
Celebrate the holiday season with unforgettable family dining at Salt Creek Grille where panoramic views of the Navesink River meet warm, wood-fired flavors. During Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, families can enjoy traditional holiday menus featuring hand-carved turkey, festive sides, and decadent dessertsقall served in a cozy, upscale setting. With spacious private dining options and a welcoming atmosphere, Salt Creek Grille is the perfect destination for holiday gatherings, seasonal celebrations, and waterfront memories.
Scarborough Fair
Sea Girt, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Scarborough Fair, where Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining becomes a cherished family tradition. Nestled in a romantic, historic farmhouse, this beloved Jersey Shore restaurant dazzles with seasonal dأcor and a warm, intimate ambiance perfect for festive gatherings. Families can savor locally sourced, organic dishesقfrom slow-roasted turkey and herb stuffing to wild-caught seafood and decadent holiday desserts. With cozy alcove seating and a menu crafted for all ages, Scarborough Fair offers an unforgettable holiday experience that blends gourmet dining with heartfelt celebration.
Sirena Ristorante
Long Branch, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Sirena Ristorante. This season, families can indulge in Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dining experiences featuring chef-curated holiday menus, cozy fireplace seating, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Located in Pier Village, Sirena blends festive ambiance with elevated Italian cuisineقperfect for creating unforgettable family memories. Whether you're savoring slow-roasted turkey or seasonal seafood specials, Sirena offers a warm, elegant setting for your holiday gathering..
The Perch at The Peacock Inn
Princeton, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at The Perch at The Peacock Inn. This charming boutique restaurant offers festive Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and refined American cuisine. Families can enjoy a cozy, elegant atmosphere with three-course holiday meals, and attentive service that makes every gathering feel special. Whether you're savoring slow-roasted turkey or indulging in seasonal desserts, The Perch delivers a warm, memorable experience perfect for holiday celebrations in the heart of Princeton.
Southern New Jersey Holiday Dining Favorites
Amici
Cherry Hill, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at Amiciقs where holiday warmth meets authentic Italian flavor. Their Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day menus feature festive prix fixe and a la carte options, including house-made pastas, hand-cut steaks, and signature seafood dishesقall served in cozy, private dining rooms perfect for gatherings of up to 100 guests. Whether you're planning a holiday party or a relaxed family meal, Amicis offers BYOB service, catering, and gift certificates to make your celebrations seamless and special.
Blue Pig Tavern
Cape May, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with heartwarming family dining at the Blue Pig Tavern where Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals blend historic charm with farm-fresh flavor. Nestled inside Congress Hall, this beloved restaurant offers cozy fireplace seating and festive decor, perfect for seasonal gatherings. Enjoy traditional holiday favorites crafted with ingredients from nearby Beach Plum Farm, including roasted turkey, savory stuffing, and decadent pies. Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving feast or a Christmas dinner, the Blue Pig Tavern delivers a memorable, family-friendly experience in the heart of Cape May.
Carmine’s Restaurant
The Quarter at the Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable family-style dining at Carmine's Restaurant. Known for its generous Southern Italian classics, Carmine's offers festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve menus perfect for sharing with loved ones. Families can indulge in heaping platters of roasted meats, seasonal sides, and decadent dessertsقall served in a warm, celebratory atmosphere just steps from the Boardwalk. Whether you're gathering for a holiday feast or planning a cozy winter outing, Carmine's delivers a joyful dining experience that captures the spirit of the season.
Deauville Inn
Strathmere, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable waterfront dining at the Deauville Inn where families can enjoy festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve meals in a cozy, historic setting. Featuring chef-crafted seasonal menus, including traditional turkey feasts and gourmet holiday specials, the Deauville Inn blends old-world charm with modern culinary flair. With scenic views of Corsonقs Inlet and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, itقs the perfect destination for holiday gatherings, making every bite part of your coastal holiday tradition
Ebbitt Room
Cape May, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at The Ebbitt Room, Cape Mayقs premier farm-to-table restaurant nestled in the historic Virginia Hotel. During Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day families can savor elegant prix fixe menus featuring locally sourced ingredients from Beach Plum Farm, including holiday classics with a refined twist. With its cozy ambiance, exceptional service, and festive flair, The Ebbitt Room offers a warm, coastal escape for holiday gatherings.
McCormick and Schmick’s
Atlantic City, NJ
Celebrate the holidays with a festive family feast at McCormick & Schmicks Seafood & Steaks. This waterfront favorite offers a warm, upscale setting for Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve & Christmas Day dining, featuring traditional turkey dinners with all the classic fixingsقlike cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie alongside their signature seafood and steak selections. Whether you're gathering for a holiday meal or picking up a to-go feast, McCormick & Schmicks blends seasonal flavors with culinary excellence, making it a top choice for family-friendly holiday dining in Atlantic City.
Old Homestead
Atlantic City, NJ
Celebrate the holidays in style at Old Homestead Steak House where Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining becomes a luxurious family affair. Nestled inside the Borgata, this iconic restaurant offers prix-fixe holiday menus featuring classics like farm-raised roasted turkey, sweet mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, alongside signature steakhouse favorites like prime filet mignon. With elegant private dining rooms and warm, attentive service, Old Homestead creates a festive atmosphere perfect for family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and seasonal indulgence.
Peter Shields Inn
Cape May, NJ
Peter Shields Inn offers ann elegant, chef-curated holiday dining experiences for Thanksgiving and Christmas, featuring multi-course prix fixe menus with seasonal gourmet selections. One of Cape May’s most acclaimed fine dining destinations. For Thanksgiving, Executive Chef Keith Mitchell presents a luxurious three-course prix fixe menu complemented by festive sides such as candied sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce. With its oceanfront setting, candlelit ambiance, and impeccable service, Peter Shields Inn offers a memorable holiday dining experience perfect for couples, families, and festive gatherings.
River Winds
West Deptford, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable waterfront dining at The Riverwinds Restaurant, perfect for family gatherings on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Enjoy chef-crafted holiday menus featuring traditional favorites like roasted turkey, seasonal sides, and decadent desserts, all served in a warm, festive atmosphere with panoramic views of the Delaware River.
Verona Ristorante
Haddonfield, NJ
Celebrate the season with unforgettable family dining at Verona Ristorante where Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals blend warmth, tradition, and Southern Italian flair. This cozy BYOB spot offers festive prix fixe menus featuring holiday classics with a Sicilian twistقthink herb-roasted meats, seasonal pastas, and decadent desserts. With elegant indoor seating and a welcoming atmosphere, Verona is the perfect destination for family gatherings, holiday dinners, and special celebrations.
FAQs
Q: When should I book for Thanksgiving or Christmas in 2025?
A: Reserve 3 to 6 weeks in advance. High-demand venues may open books even earlier.
Q: Do these restaurants offer kids’ menus on holidays?
A: Many do, but it depends on the special menu. Ask about child pricing when you book.
Q: Are vegetarian or gluten-free options available?
A: Most kitchens can accommodate common dietary needs. Mention your request when reserving.
Q: What is the dress code for holiday dining?
A: Smart casual is common. Some upscale spots lean business casual or cocktail attire on New Year’s Eve.
Q: Are takeout or family-style packages offered for the holidays?
A: Several restaurants prepare holiday takeout or prix fixe boxes. Check the website or call ahead.
Q: Do these places require a deposit for holiday reservations?
A: Some do, especially for large parties or New Year’s Eve. Ask about cancellation policies.
Q: Which restaurants have the best views for a festive dinner?
A: Check out Chart House, Waterside, Felina Steak at Hudson House, Salt Creek Grille, River Winds, and Blue Pig Tavern for scenic settings.
Q: What if there is severe weather?
A: Policies vary. Most will update guests by phone or email. Keep your contact details current on the reservation.
