Milwaukee Christmas Restaurant Guide 2025: Where to Dine on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Planning to skip the holiday cooking this year? You're in luck—dozens of Milwaukee-area restaurants will welcome you on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2025, from elegant hotel brunches to beloved neighborhood spots. Whether you're craving prime rib in a grand ballroom, interactive hibachi with the kids, or takeout Chinese (a time-honored tradition), this comprehensive guide covers every option across the greater Milwaukee area.

The biggest news: The Pfister Hotel's legendary Christmas brunch returns at $119 per adult in the Grand Ballroom, while family-friendly options like Potawatomi's Canal Street Café offer free dining for kids under 8. Book now—popular spots are already filling up.

Hotel restaurant festive experiences

Milwaukee's grande dame hotels transform into holiday wonderlands, offering the easiest path to a memorable Christmas meal without any cleanup.

The Pfister Hotel Christmas Celebration Brunch

This iconic Milwaukee tradition returns on Christmas Day from 9 AM to 2:30 PM in the Grand Ballroom. The lavish buffet features fresh seafood stations, Wisconsin artisan cheeses, carved meats, made-to-order omelets, and an indulgent dessert spread. Every adult receives a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary upon arrival.

Pricing: $119 per adult, $35 for children ages 3-10, free for children under 2 (plus tax and 24% service charge). Reservations require full prepayment by credit card, refundable with 72 hours' notice. Contact (414) 273-8222 or book through Tock at thepfisterhotel.com/holidays.

Mason Street Grill at The Pfister

Located inside The Pfister, this upscale American restaurant serves both Christmas Eve (4–9 PM) and Christmas Day (1–8 PM). Their holiday prix fixe menu runs $81 per person and includes your choice of salad or soup, prime rib with herb whipped potatoes and pancetta Brussels sprouts, plus dessert. The regular menu remains available alongside holiday offerings. Reserve at (414) 298-3131 or through OpenTable.

The Studio Kitchen at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

This artsy downtown spot opens 4–9 PM on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a $79 prix fixe menu featuring Midwestern-inspired holiday dishes including prime rib with savory bread pudding and double chocolate cake with raspberry sauce. The hotel also hosts "Brunch with Santa" events December 13-14 for families wanting to double down on holiday magic. Call (414) 270-4422 or book via OpenTable.

Tre Rivali at Kimpton Journeyman Hotel

The Third Ward's boutique hotel restaurant hosts a stunning Christmas Day brunch from 10 AM to 3 PM. The buffet includes an artisanal cheese and salumi board, build-your-own toast and waffle bars, chef-attended egg station, prime rib with horseradish cream, and Sicilian-style roasted pork shoulder. Desserts range from chocolate truffle torte to white chocolate-cranberry bread pudding. Pricing: $75 adults, $30 children under 12. Reserve at (414) 291-3971 or OpenTable.

Milwaukee ChopHouse at Hilton Milwaukee

Open Christmas Eve only from 5–10 PM, this classic steakhouse offers a three-course prix fixe at $72 per person: soup or salad, sliced tenderloin or rosemary garlic roasted chicken, and crème brûlée or chocolate cake. Call (414) 226-2467 for reservations.

North Shore families have excellent local options

Residents of Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Mequon, and Glendale don't need to travel far for quality holiday dining.

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn

This historic gem—operating since 1915—welcomes families with its cozy log cabin atmosphere and beloved German-American fare. Known for its famous German pancakes, wiener schnitzel, and fresh whitefish, Jack Pandl's has announced it will be open for the holidays with the message "Happy Holidays to all of our fans! Join us with family and friends!" Call (414) 964-3800 to confirm specific Christmas Eve and Christmas Day hours. Regular entrees run $15-35, and online ordering is available through Uber Eats for those preferring takeout.

Mallard's Family Restaurant at Bayshore (Glendale)

This Southern-inspired newcomer hosts a special Feast of Seven Fishes dinner on Christmas Eve from 4–8 PM. The four-course Italian-tradition menu runs $39.99 per person and includes lobster bisque with shrimp crostini, smoked salmon orzo salad with clam fritters, barramundi stuffed with whitefish and crab, and raspberry lemon bread pudding. The regular menu (lobster rolls, jambalaya, blackened fish tacos) remains available too. Reservations required at MallardsMN.com or (414) 509-5555. Located at 5689 N. Bayshore Drive near The Yard at Bayshore.

Hong Anh Palace (Mequon)

Chinese restaurants famously stay open on Christmas, and this Mequon family favorite confirms Christmas Day hours from 4–9 PM. Expect traditional Chinese-American favorites like sesame chicken, hot and sour soup, and crab rangoon at budget-friendly prices. No delivery available, but dine-in and takeout work great for families. Located at 10046 N. Port Washington Road; call (262) 241-7768.

Café Hollander – Mequon Grand Café

The Lowlands Group's Belgian-inspired café serves Christmas Eve brunch from 8 AM to 3 PM before closing early for the holiday. Their two-floor location features cozy winter domes for heated outdoor seating, making this a fun option for festive morning dining. Belgian waffles, signature cheese curds, and award-winning Bloody Marys headline the menu. Note: All Café Hollander locations close Christmas Day. Located at 5900 W. Mequon Road; book through OpenTable.

Calderone Club (Fox Point)

This family-owned Italian spot serves authentic thin-crust pizza from its original 1945 recipe alongside crispy fried eggplant, lasagna, and homemade tiramisu. While specific Christmas hours require confirmation, the restaurant advertises holiday party availability. Call (414) 352-9303 well in advance—this local favorite books quickly.

Bawi Korean BBQ (Mequon)

For something different, this all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience lets families grill their own high-quality meats tableside, including wagyu beef. Listed on OpenTable for Christmas reservations at approximately $40 per person for the two-hour AYCE experience. Great for adventurous families with older kids who'll enjoy the interactive cooking. Located at 6107 W. Mequon Road; call (262) 788-4000.

Downtown and Third Ward options

Potawatomi Casino Hotel offers something for everyone

The casino complex provides Milwaukee's most versatile holiday dining with multiple venues and price points.

Canal Street Café serves an all-you-can-eat buffet both days. Christmas Eve runs 7 AM–2 PM at $28 per person (25% senior discount for ages 50+). Christmas Day expands to $35 per person with children under 8 eating free—making this one of the best family values in town. The spread includes prime rib, breakfast favorites, mini eggnog doughnuts, and chocolate yule logs.

Dream Dance Steakhouse operates 5–10 PM on both December 24 and 25 with a Prime Rib + Wine Special at just $55 per person: French onion soup or Caesar salad, prime rib with potato and vegetables, and Christmas trifle dessert. Half-price select wine bottles sweeten the deal. Visit potawatomi.com/restaurants for reservations.

Ward's House of Prime

This downtown steakhouse serves dine-in on Christmas Eve starting at 4 PM with its full prime rib menu. For Christmas Day, they offer pickup only from noon to 1 PM with advance orders. Take-home dinners range from $65 for one person to $625 for 9-12 servings, including au jus, horseradish, house salad, mushrooms, mashed potatoes, and corn. A quarter prime rib (meat only) runs $200. Contact (414) 223-0135 or email jennifer@wardshouseofprime.com.

Old Town Serbian Gourmet Restaurant

This hidden gem opens 5–9 PM on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with European specialties including stuffed pork loin with plum sauce, cognac lobster-stuffed phyllo pie, and caramel hazelnut chocolate torte. Located at 522 W. Lincoln Avenue; reservations required at (414) 672-0206.

The Packing House

A reliable South Side option opening Christmas Eve 4–8 PM and Christmas Day 11 AM–7 PM with full holiday dinner menus including kids' options. Located at 900 E. Layton Avenue; call (414) 483-5054.

Western suburbs and Wauwatosa keep families fed

Mo's Irish Pub (Wauwatosa)

Open Christmas Eve only from 10 AM to 6 PM, Mo's offers both dine-in and take-home options. Their Turkey or Ham Dinner Package ($159.99) serves 10-12 people and includes mashed potatoes, gravy, sweet potatoes, dressing, cranberry sauce, corn, rolls, and both apple and pumpkin pie. Individual plated dinners run $21.99 for adults and $15.99 for kids 10 and under. Order by December 22. Located at 10842 W. Blue Mound Road; call (414) 774-9782.

Eldr + Rime (Wauwatosa)

This craft cocktail destination near Mayfair opens Christmas Eve from 11 AM to 8 PM with a special holiday menu featuring seasonal dishes and desserts. Closed Christmas Day. Upscale but accommodating for families. Located at 2300 N. Mayfair Road; call (414) 867-9200.

India Garden (Wauwatosa)

One of the few restaurants confirmed open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for lunch and dinner, this Indian favorite offers a full menu with excellent vegetarian options. Perfect for families wanting something beyond traditional holiday fare. Takeout and delivery available. Located at 2930 N. 117th St.; call (414) 235-9220.

Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club (Wauwatosa)

The Lowlands Group's supper club concept serves Christmas Eve brunch from 9 AM to 3 PM with its classic Wisconsin-inspired menu. Walk-ins welcome, family-friendly atmosphere. Closed Christmas Day. Located at 7700 Harwood Avenue.

Odyssey Family Restaurant (Menomonee Falls)

A classic family restaurant opening Christmas Day from 11 AM to 3 PM for breakfast and lunch. Reservations available, takeout offered. Perfect for a no-fuss family meal. Located at N82 W15380 Appleton Ave.; call (262) 255-3036.

Chinese restaurants honor the Christmas tradition

The tradition of Jewish and Chinese Americans dining together on Christmas has created a reliable network of restaurants open December 25. These spots typically welcome walk-ins, though calling ahead never hurts.

Sze Chuan Restaurant serves authentic Sichuan cuisine including dry chili fish filet and boiled beef. Known for legitimate spice levels alongside milder options for kids. Moderate prices with robust takeout.

Fortune Chinese Restaurant offers two menus: American Chinese classics and a "secret" authentic Chinese menu for adventurous diners. Don't miss the Cantonese BBQ pork and dim sum offerings. Most dishes run under $20.

Fusion Cafe at 1427 S. 108th St. specializes in Northeastern Chinese cuisine with handmade dumplings (try the pickled cabbage and pork), beef pancakes, and stewed pork belly with Napa cabbage. Bubble tea available for the kids.

Note: DanDan in the Third Ward and Momo Mee close on Christmas Day, though DanDan offers an excellent take-home Peking Duck Dinner for $105 (serves 2-3) with pickup on December 23.

Interactive dining creates memorable family experiences

Benihana Milwaukee

The hibachi chain confirms it's open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at 850 N. Plankinton Ave. Kids absolutely love watching chefs perform tableside cooking tricks while preparing teppanyaki meals. Expect very expensive pricing ($$$$) but an unforgettable experience. Valet parking available during dinner. Reservations strongly recommended at (414) 270-0890 or benihana.com.

The Melting Pot (Brookfield)

This fondue restaurant typically opens for Christmas (call to confirm) and offers a four-course interactive experience: cheese fondue, fresh salads, cook-your-own entrées, and chocolate fondue dessert. Kids enjoy dunking their own food, making this a fun alternative to traditional dining. Located at 19850 W. Bluemound Rd.; call (262) 782-6358. Holiday reservations strongly recommended.

The King and I (Thai)

Milwaukee's award-winning Thai restaurant since 1988 confirms it's open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at 830 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. With 65+ menu items including noodles, seafood, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, every family member finds something to love. Takeout available for families preferring to dine at home. Call kingandimke.com for reservations.

Worth-the-drive resort options in Lake Country

Grand Geneva Resort (Lake Geneva)

About an hour from Milwaukee, this resort offers multiple Christmas dining options. Christmas Eve brunch in Geneva ChopHouse (9 AM–6 PM) and Ristorante Brissago (11 AM–8 PM) runs $90 adults, $40 children 6-12, $15 children 2-5, with complimentary champagne and mimosas. The more casual Grand Café serves a prime rib and seafood buffet (noon–9 PM) at $59 adults, $25 children 6-12. Reservations require credit card. Call (262) 249-4788.

Lake Lawn Resort (Delavan)

The Christmas Eve prix fixe dinner at 1878 on the Lake (4–9 PM) costs $92 per person with entrée choices including prime rib, halibut, pesto chicken, or surf & turf. Christmas Day brunch (10 AM–4 PM) runs $68 adults, $28 children 8-12, $15 children 4-7 and features a dedicated kids' buffet with chicken tenders, pasta, and chocolate chip pancakes. Call (262) 725-9155.

Chain restaurants provide reliable backup options

When local spots book up, these national chains confirm they'll be open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2025 (hours vary by location—call ahead):

• Applebee's – casual dining, kids menu

• Benihana – hibachi experience (reservations recommended)

• Boston Market – holiday meal specialists

• Buffalo Wild Wings – casual sports bar

• Denny's – breakfast all day (typically 24 hours)

• IHOP – breakfast-focused, kids menu

• Outback Steakhouse – casual steakhouse (reservations recommended)

• P.F. Chang's – Asian-inspired (Wauwatosa location at 2500 N. Mayfair Rd.)

• Ruth's Chris Steak House – upscale steakhouse (reservations required)

• Morton's The Steakhouse – upscale (reservations required)

Closed Christmas Day: Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Cracker Barrel, Chili's, Chipotle, Arby's

Takeout and catering for home celebrations

Maxie's (Near West Side)

Pre-order a complete take-and-heat dinner for $175 (serves 5-6): short ribs with red wine demi-glace, mashed potatoes, Hook's White Cheddar mac and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash with cranberries and pecans, honey glazed carrots, and Parker House rolls. Add desserts from Blue's Bakery including Yule logs and candy cane pie. Order by December 19, pickup December 23 (2–4 PM). Located at 6732 W. Fairview Ave.; call (414) 292-3969.

Mr. B's – A Bartolotta Steakhouse (Brookfield)

The acclaimed steakhouse offers takeout sides and desserts only (serves up to 6): Yukon gold potato puree ($30), sweet potato puree with spiced pecans ($43), green beans with almonds and cranberries ($38), creamed spinach ($50), baked mac and cheese ($40), pumpkin pie ($25), apple cobbler ($32). Order by December 19, pickup December 23 (noon–6 PM) at 18380 W. Capitol Drive.

Emerald City Catering

Full holiday meals at $26.95 per person with options including roast beef, ham, meatballs, Polish sausage, turkey, and stuffed chicken breast. À la carte also available. Order by December 19 at (414) 672-3434.

Shully's Cuisine (Thiensville)

Holiday menu featuring salads, soups, sides, and heat-and-serve items. Order online by December 20 for pickup or delivery December 23.

Practical tips for stress-free holiday dining

Book immediately. Popular restaurants like The Pfister, Tre Rivali, and Benihana fill weeks in advance. Even casual spots see heavy traffic—calling ahead for reservations or wait times saves frustration.

Confirm everything the week before. Hours sometimes shift as the holiday approaches. A quick call prevents showing up to locked doors.

Build in buffer time. Holiday traffic and parking challenges add delays. Arriving 15 minutes early for reservations reduces stress.

Have a backup plan. Keep one or two chain restaurant phone numbers handy in case your first choice falls through.

Consider brunch over dinner. Brunch options tend to book up slower and often offer better value, especially for families with young children who may not make it through late dinners.

Check kids' pricing. Several upscale spots offer children's rates (The Pfister at $35, Tre Rivali at $30, Lake Lawn at $15-28), making fine dining surprisingly accessible for families.

Don't forget takeout. Chinese restaurants offer robust takeout on Christmas Day, and pre-ordered meals from Maxie's or Mr. B's let you enjoy restaurant-quality food at home—perfect for families with very young children or those hosting relatives.

Conclusion

Milwaukee-area families have more Christmas dining options than ever in 2025, ranging from the elegant Pfister Hotel brunch to budget-friendly buffets at Potawatomi where kids eat free. The North Shore delivers solid local options including Jack Pandl's historic charm and Mallard's creative Feast of Seven Fishes, while Chinese and Thai restaurants maintain their tradition of welcoming diners when others close.

The key insight for 2025: interactive experiences are trending. Benihana, Bawi Korean BBQ, and The Melting Pot offer the kind of memorable, hands-on dining that transforms a holiday meal into genuine family entertainment. For those who'd rather stay home, pre-order catering from Maxie's or Mr. B's by December 19 and skip the kitchen entirely.

Whatever your family's style or budget, make reservations now—the best tables won't last until Christmas week.