Lillie's Victorian Establishment

"Around this time of year, both the Union Square and Times Square locations of Lillie’s Victorian Establishment aren’t just festive, they’re chock-full of colorful ornaments, antique trinkets, and various nutcrackers watching over the scene. It’s already a beautiful space year-round, adorned with stained glass and old world artifacts, but now it feels like a Christmas episode of Antiques Roadshow (or a particularly cheerful episode of Hoarders). Our favorite time to stop by is at brunch for an Irish coffee and the Grand Marnier French toast. " - neha talreja

"No one can ever accuse the people behind this restaurant of mailing it in when it comes to decor. The super high and ornate ceilings make you feel like you’re in a palace. Direct your eyes to the stained glass windows, and now this place looks like a church. The menu here has staples like grilled chicken, shrimp cocktail, and a bacon cheeseburger. There’s also afternoon tea, which is only offered at Lillie’s Midtown location (the other being near Union Square). The tea service comes with a solid chicken salad and mint pesto sandwich, delicate macarons, a selection of mini ​​creme brûlées with perfectly brittle tops, and more—all served on flowery Victorian dishware. This place is on the same street as multiple Broadway productions, so go for brunch before a weekend matinee. photo credit: Tymel Young" - Kenny Yang