Dining out on Christmas Day might seem like a modern trend, but it dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when they became an unexpected haven for holiday dining in the United States. Since Christmas wasn’t celebrated in traditional Chinese culture, these establishments remained open while most others closed for the holiday.
For Jewish Americans, who also didn’t celebrate Christmas in a conventional sense, these restaurants offered a welcoming space to enjoy a festive meal. The pairing was practical but also cultural. Chinese cuisine’s lack of dairy made it easier for those adhering to Jewish dietary laws to dine out, even if the restaurants weren’t strictly kosher. Over time, this cross-cultural tradition evolved into a beloved holiday ritual, with Chinese food becoming an iconic part of the Christmas experience for many.
So why Chinese restaurants? The answer lies in a combination of timing and tradition. For Chinese immigrants in the United States, Christmas Day was simply another workday. Keeping restaurants open allowed them to cater to others who needed a place to gather. The inclusive atmosphere of Chinese restaurants, paired with their consistent availability, turned them into a go-to option for holiday dining. Even today, the tradition endures.
For those who don’t observe Christmas or simply want a relaxed, no-fuss holiday meal, Chinese restaurants remain a cornerstone of Christmas Day dining.
The rise of Christmas day dining
By the mid-20th century, the tradition of dining out on Christmas began to grow beyond Chinese restaurants. As cities expanded and families became more dispersed, restaurants of all kinds started opening their doors on December 25. Hotel dining rooms, diners, and even upscale establishments began catering to travelers, solo diners, and families looking to avoid the stress of preparing a holiday meal.
These restaurants often blended holiday classics like turkey and ham dinners with their regular menus, offering diners both comfort and flexibility. For many, dining out wasn’t just about convenience — it was a way to celebrate in a relaxed, festive environment.
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Modern-day Christmas dining
Fast forward to today, and the dining landscape on Christmas Day is more vibrant than ever. While Chinese restaurants continue to be a popular choice, the options have expanded to include everything from trendy bistros with seasonal tasting menus to casual diners serving up pancakes and coffee. Some restaurants even offer themed buffets or takeout packages, ensuring there’s something for every taste and budget.
For many, dining out has become an intentional way to celebrate the holiday. It allows families to focus on quality time together without the pressure of cooking, cleaning or coordinating elaborate meals. In a time when traditions are evolving, the restaurant industry has embraced the opportunity to play a central role in creating memorable holiday experiences.
New Traditions, Familiar Connections
Dining out on Christmas isn’t just about the food — it’s about connection and community. Whether it’s a quiet table or a bustling family feast, restaurants offer a unique space for people to gather, share stories, and celebrate the season. For solo diners, it’s a chance to find camaraderie in a welcoming environment. For families, it’s a way to create new traditions that reflect the busy, diverse world we live in today.
From the timeless comfort of Chinese takeout to the elegance of a fine dining holiday menu, Christmas Day dining has become a reflection of the many ways people choose to celebrate. It’s a tradition steeped in history, rooted in practicality, and embraced as a meaningful way to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.
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Evergreen Restaurant (Chinese) – full menu
208 W Liberty St (open 11:30 am-10:00 pm), 2771 Plymouth Rd (open 11:00 am-9:30 pm) -
Gandy Dancer (seafood) – three-course holiday prix fixe menu starting at $59/person
401 Depot St (open 12-8pm)
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Godaiko (Japenese) – full menu
3105 Oak Valley Dr (open 11:30 am-8pm)
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JJ Crab House (Hibachi & seafood) – full menu
2871 Carpenter Rd (open 11am-9:30 pm) -
King Shing (Chinese) – full menu
2865 Carpenter Rd (open 11am-10pm)
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Lucky Kitchen (Chinese) – full menu
1753 Plymouth Rd (open 11am-10pm) -
Palm Palace (Mediterranean) – full menu
2370 Carpenter Rd (open 12-8pm)
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Panda House (Chinese) – full menu minus lunch specials
229 N Maple Rd (open 10:30am-9:30pm) -
Texas de Brazil (Brazilian steakhouse) – full menu.
Briarwood Mall, 760 Briarwood Cr (open 11am-9pm) -
TK Wu (Chinese) – full menu
510 E. Liberty St (check open hours) -
Yee Siang Dumplings (Chinese) – full menu
4837 Washtenaw Ave (open 11am-9:30pm)
