What’s Open on Christmas Day & Christmas Eve in New Orleans
Where to Eat, Sip & Celebrate Through the Holidays Like a Local
The Holiday Magic of New Orleans
From candlelit carols to champagne brunches, New Orleans makes the holidays feel timeless. If you’re planning your trip and wondering what’s open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve in New Orleans, the city’s dining rooms, hotel bars, and riverfront streets still hum with life.
NOI Tip: Book Reveillon dinners early — many are available only through Christmas Eve and fill up weeks in advance.
Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Breakfast & Brunch
Oceana Grill – French Quarter favorite serving hearty breakfasts and holiday mimosas from early morning to late night.
Commons Club at Virgin Hotels New Orleans – Stylish, modern brunch spot offering a special Christmas Day brunch with elevated dishes and festive cocktails.
Café du Monde – Open 365 days a year — yes, even Christmas! Perfect for beignets and café au lait.
Copper Vine – Known for upscale comfort food and an extensive wine list, open Christmas Day with a modified menu.
Athenian Bar & Grill – Mediterranean-style breakfast and lunch options available on Dec 25.
Lunch & Dinner
Tujague’s – Historic Creole dining room serving a special Christmas menu in true New Orleans style.
King Brasserie & Bar – Inside Kimpton Fontainebleau; modern brasserie offering a festive tasting menu.
The Grill Room at Windsor Court – Elegant fine-dining experience with live jazz and river views.
Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard – Holiday menu and romantic courtyard setting; listed as open on Dec 25.
The Italian Barrel – Five-course Christmas Day menu in the Marigny with Tuscan flair.
Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails – Seasonal prix-fixe menu through Dec 31 (including Christmas Day).
NOI Tip: Even if a restaurant was open last year, hours can shift — always confirm before booking.
Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve
Classic Reveillon Dinners
Commander’s Palace – Garden District fine-dining institution serving a multi-course Reveillon dinner with jazz.
Arnaud’s – French Quarter landmark offering elegant Creole Reveillon menus since 1918.
Antoine’s – Timeless holiday atmosphere and a multi-course seasonal menu perfect for Christmas Eve.
Broussard’s – Classic French-Creole Reveillon menu served in its courtyard setting.
Cozy & Romantic Spots
Café Amelie – Dine beneath string lights in the courtyard for a romantic Eve dinner.
GW Fins – Seafood-driven menu open on Christmas Eve night.
Boulevard American Bistro – Family-friendly option with holiday menu; also open Christmas Day.
Oceana Grill – Serves through Christmas Eve and Day for visitors who want flexibility.
Insider Note: Most Reveillon menus run through Dec 24 only — book early for these special one-night experiences.
Festive Hotels, Lounges & Bars
The Roosevelt New Orleans – The “Waldorf Wonderland” lobby and Sazerac Bar open both Dec 24 & 25.
Hotel Monteleone – Carousel Bar spins all season with jazz and holiday cocktails.
The Ritz-Carlton – Elegant holiday tea service on Christmas Eve afternoon.
The Royal Sonesta – Christmas night jazz and festive ambiance in the Quarter.
Photo Op: These lobbies are Instagram gold — add them to your walking route for holiday snapshots.
Christmas Display at The Ritz-Carlton
Photo Credit: Kathryn White Chillcut
Things To Do on Christmas Day & Eve
Strolls & Sights
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral – Caroling on Christmas Eve; artists and musicians on Christmas Day.
St. Charles Streetcar – Runs on a holiday schedule both days — ride past grand homes wrapped in garland.
Woldenberg Park & Riverfront – Quiet strolls with city views and family photo spots.
City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks – Light displays open through Christmas Eve night (closed Dec 25).
NOI Tip: Dine on Christmas Eve, brunch and wander on Christmas Day — it’s the local rhythm.
Local Joys & Peaceful Moments
Start your morning with PJ’s Coffee and a praline latte stroll along Royal Street.
Stop by hotel lobbies with live jazz between Reveillon dinners and nightcaps.
Grab late-night beignets at Café du Monde on Christmas night.
Watch the Mississippi River reflections from the Moonwalk.
NOI Insider Tips
✨ Reserve both days early: The 24th fills first; the 25th books fast too.
✨ Confirm transportation: Streetcars run limited schedules.
✨ Dress festive: Locals love metallics and velvet for holiday photos.
✨ Stay central: French Quarter and Garden District are walkable on both days.
✨ Plan a two-day itinerary: Eve for fine dining, Day for relaxed exploring.
Plan Your Holiday with NOI
From Reveillon dinners to beignet mornings, New Orleans Itineraries (NOI) curates unforgettable Christmas experiences — with reservations, routes, and local details handled for you.
