Struggling to put together a spread for your holiday gatherings? We’ve got you covered.
Pennsylvania is a state of grand fortune, with scores of local farms and farmers markets from which to source all of our necessary produce. We also have ample bake shops for pies and cookies, and, for those who aren’t up for hosting, plenty of great restaurants open on Christmas day!
The Best Holiday Bakeries in Pennsylvania
While it is convenient to buy from Costco or Whole Foods, ordering pies and pastries from one of these Pennsylvania businesses means supporting your local economy while ensuring higher-quality food.
The Farm Bakery & Events
Where: 2475 W Zion Hill Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951
What to order: Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Yelp review: “I cannot say enough good things about the Farm Bakery! Guests could not stop telling us how delicious the desserts were.” –Emily M.
Stock’s Bakery
Where: 2614 E Lehigh Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
What to order: Pound Cake
Yelp review: “Stock’s Bakery is a family tradition, a legendary Port Richmond neighborhood bakery that has earned a place in pound cake history. Founded in 1924 by Josef Stock, the bakery spans 5 generations of family, quite an achievement. They began selling pound cake around 1945, a dessert traditionally made at home. I’m so glad they did!” –Gina Marie S.
Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery
Where: 213 North Ave, Millvale, PA 15209
What to order: Macarons
Yelp review: “This is no doubt my favorite bakery in Pittsburgh, period. We only had the opportunity to try it recently and I’ve been kicking myself for not going sooner.” –Phil H.
Vegan Treats
Where: 1444 Linden St, Bethlehem, PA 18018
What to order: Carrot Cake
Yelp review: “I can confidently say that Vegan Treats has some of the best pastries and treats in the area.” –Daniel S.
Oakmont Bakery
Where: 1 Sweet St, Oakmont, PA 15139
What to order: Oakmonter Dolce
Yelp review: “Oakmont Bakery is the holy grail of bakeries.” –Lori J.
READ MORE: The 13 best bakeries in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Restaurants Open on Christmas
Not everyone is putting together an elaborate spread for Christmas. Some folks just want to go out for a quick bite. That’s why we asked Stacy Rounds to compile a list of well-reviewed restaurants you can visit on Christmas Day.
Philadelphia Restaurants Open on Christmas
Aqimero
In years past, the Chrirstmas day buffet at Aqimero inside the Ritz Carlton in Downtown Philadelphia was known for being an accommodating “last resort” for holiday dining. But surrounded by towering columns, marble, and elegant lighting, Aqimero is the perfect setting for family holiday photos or a romantic escape from the holiday bustle.
This year, Aqimero is offering a special holiday brunch on Dec. 25 from noon to 5 p.m. Offerings include selections from their raw bar, speciality toasts, salad, holiday ham, halibut, lamb, Mexican French toast, dessert, and a complimentary cocktail. For under $100 per person, this buffet seems like a good deal for travelers and locals alike. Reservations are highly recommended.
La Fontana Della Citta
For those looking for a family sit down dinner with loads of Italian comfort food, La Fontana Della Citta is one of the best destinations for Christmas Day dining. Since 1998, Albanian-born restaurateur, Bujar Daku has been delighting diners with Italian fare, styled up with local, seasonal ingredients.
With large, family-style tables and a delightful range of meals — from boujee branzino to simple fettucini alfredo — there’s sure to be something for everyone in your family to enjoy. And with wines to complement every dish, you can get into the holiday “spirit” in style.
Fuji Mountain Japanese Restaurant
It was a tradition through my teenage years to grab a bite of Asian cuisine on Christmas Day, and I’m sure it’s the same for many families around the US. But Fuji Mountain takes “Asian food on Christmas” to an all new level with its mountainous selection of a la carte sushi and sashimi, specialty rolls, noodles, tempura, and bento boxes.
This hot spot for sushi in Philadephia’s Rittenhouse Square will be open this Christmas Day. Hours may vary from their usual Wednesday hours, so check online before heading in. Takeout will also be available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for those who want to stay home in their Christmas pajamas.
Jean-George’s at the Four Seasons
Known as the gold standard for holiday dining, Jean George’s offers a festive dinnertime tasting menu with unforgettable dishes in a beautiful space with stunning views of the city. But you may want to hurry if you want to secure a reservation. As of presstime, Jean George’s was almost full on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day this year.
This ultra-luxury dining experience is not for the faint of wallet. However, the $245 holiday menu includes a five-course meat-lovers delight using local, seasonal ingredients, truffles, and a spot of champagne. If you’re planning a holiday engagement this year, you may want to consider Jean George’s…and good luck!
Urban Farmer
Urban Farmer, located inside the Logan Hotel in Logan Square, is hosting a special three-course dinner for your family’s festive celebration this Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you’re looking for a modern steakhouse meal with chef-inspired sides and fixins, this may be the right spot for your holiday celebration, whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or that special someone.
Priced separately for adults and children, this feast includes Maine lobster pasta, carrot and pumpkin soup, chilled shrimp, salad, roasted duck, and prime rib, plus sides and desserts for the family to share. Reservations are requested to book your holiday dinner at everyone’s favorite steak place this season. Dinner will be served between 4-9 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Square 1682
Known for its upbeat ambiance and approachable modern American cuisine, Square 1682 has become a beloved Center City staple. And with its carefully curated wine menu, wide beer selection, and delicious cocktails and mocktails, it’s a great place to celebrate the holiday spirit. If you’re in the mood for a fuss-free holiday meal, Square 1682’s annual Christmas Dinner may be just what you’re looking for.
For Christmas Day theatergoers, Square 1682 is offering a pre-fixe meal for only $55. The pre-fixe menu currently includes shrimp cocktail, a drunken bleu salad, steak frites, buttered tofu, and other carefully crafted selections. Reservations are available from 4-9 p.m.
Pittsburgh Restaurants Open on Christmas
Grand Concourse
One of the best traditions in Pittsburgh is enjoying the all-day Christmas buffet at the historic Grand Concourse in Station Square. Reservations are highly recommended, and the buffet is open from noon until 7 p.m. on the 25th. This award-winning, forty-year-old seafood restaurant is situated inside the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station, with arched ceilings, shining marble columns, linen napkins, and vintage light features.
Diners can enjoy upscale offerings from salmon rockefeller to carved prime rib to freshly shucked oysters. But there’s plenty for the kids to enjoy, too, including the donut machine, ice cream station, and a slew of freshly made Christmas cookies.
Taj Mahal – McKnight
Taj Mahal on McKnight Rd. in Ross Township has one of the best lunch buffets in town and boasts some of the best authentic Indian food in Western PA. The buffet boasts familiar Indian favorites such as tandoori chicken and samosas, but you may also find seasonal offerings and chef’s specials, so there’s always something new to try. North Hills residents won’t have to drive far to get a great holiday meal at a low price.
With many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Taj Mahal is a great choice for a family gathering that will work for folks with dietary restrictions. You can dine in or order takeout on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Spirits & Tales at the Oaklander
Located on the tenth floor of the Oaklander Hotel, hotel guests and food-loving locals can enjoy a French-inspired, high-end meal at Spirits & Tales on Christmas Day. Spirits & Tales currently has open reservations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the 25th.
Breakfast selections range from simple, filling oatmeal to chef-inspired smothered toasts. If you’re in the mood for oysters, baked brie, Wagyu beef, or delectable frites, this may be a great spot to celebrate with friends and family or enjoy a romantic meal for two on Christmas.
North Shore Tavern
Steak on a stone is the cornerstone of North Shore Tavern. This meat-lovers paradise is still taking reservations on Christmas Day for lunch. North Shore Tavern is a Pittsburgh gameday staple before Pirates and Steelers games so fans can fill up before cheering on the Black and Gold.
North Shore Tavern’s approachable menu offers local favorites like baked pretzels, pizza, and wings, blended with creative chef-inspired dishes and high-quality stone-grilled steaks and seafood. It’s a go-to destination for guys’ nights out or a memorable family dinner.
fl.2 at the Fairmont Hotel
You can still reserve a table for Christmas day to enjoy a modern American meal in a beautiful atmosphere at fl. 2 at the Fairmont Hotel Downtown on Market Street for breakfast and lunch, with limited reservations available for dinner. Big perk: valet parking is available, so you won’t have to worry about parking and walking in the cold.
With a blended menu that’s appropriate for all ages, you can find fancier fare and a curated kids’ menu all in one place. And with cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, and great coffee — not to mention beautifully detailed decor perfect for family photos — this is a wonderful place to gather the extended family for an unforgettable holiday meal.
Bethlehem Restaurants Open on Christmas
Mis Raices Restaurant and Bakery
Whether you’re passing through Bethlehem on Christmas Day or if you’re looking for a place to nosh near Allentown, this unassuming yet awesome Columbian restaurant and bakery puts out an unforgettable spread each year on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
With plenty of vegan and gluten-free selections, Mis Raices Restaurant and Bakery has become a local favorite. Their holiday menu includes pork shoulder, stuffed chicken, cilantro rice, tropical salad, and tons of selections from their in-house bakery.
Erie Restaurants Open on Christmas
Golden Wok
Once upon a time, in my late teens and early twenties, it was a family tradition to dine out at a Chinese restaurant with my mom and brother (and sometimes my aunt and uncle) on Christmas Day. Golden Wok became our go-to when it opened back in 2000, and it has since become a local favorite.
In recent years, Golden Wok has added Japanese fare to its daily buffet: fresh-made sushi, udon noodles, sashimi, tataki, and more. And their standard Americanized Chinese cuisine has only gotten better over the years. On Christmas Day, you can hit up Golden Wok for dine-in or takeout.
Lancaster Restaurants Open on Christmas
Plough
Located within the Lancaster Marriott, Plough has historically offered a delectable farm-to-table spread of glazed ham, prime rib, and vegetables from Lancaster’s bountiful local farms. While the restaurant is currently accepting Christmas Day reservations through OpenTable, it is unclear if they are carrying on their “Christmas Day at Plough” festival this year.
Reading Restaurants Open on Christmas
Cheers Bistro at the DoubleTree
For families looking for a no-frills casual dinner out with big portions and flavorful options, you may consider ringing in the holiday at Cheers Bistro at the DoubleTree this Christmas. With its warm fireplace, comfortable seating, and modern decor, this is a great spot for families to kick back, enjoy a good burger, and even snap some memorable photos.
Cheers Bistro has historically offered special holiday buffets for under $50 per adult, with young kids dining for free.
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Restaurants Open on Christmas
Cafe Toscana
Scranton and Wilkes-Barre folks, if you want to get out for Christmas dinner this year, Cafe Toscana offers approachable Northern Italian dishes in a beautifully linen-lined yet comfortable space — and they’re still taking reservations for Christmas Day. This Tuscan-inspired bistro has a beautifully curated wine list to complement any meal, whether you’re into sharing an abundance of small bites or feasting on tender veal, pasta, risotto, fish, steak, or seafood. While the holiday menu will be created specifically for the holiday, you can bet on some light Tuscan fare to tantalize your palate.
Located at 1 Public Square, this space can accommodate intimate tables for two or large parties for big family gatherings. Keep an eye out for their holiday hours by following the link above.
