It's that magical time of year again where the leaves have fallen, the chill in the air has turned a little crisper, and the holiday spirit is in full swing. For those in and around San Francisco or just enthusiasts of elaborate Christmas decorations, one name rings a bell like none other - Rolf's German Restaurant. Rolf's 2017 Christmas Decorating has become an eagerly awaited event, and in this blog, we'll delve into the anticipation, the tradition, and everything you need to know about when to expect the spectacle.
The Tradition of Rolf's Christmas Spectacle
Rolf's, a quaint establishment known for its hearty German fare, transforms into a veritable wonderland from late November until the new year. Over time, the restaurant's festive decorations have become as much a part of the holiday season as gingerbread houses and hot chocolate. But when does Rolf's typically deck the halls?
When Does Rolf's Start Decorating for Christmas?
- The exact date for Rolf's Christmas Decorating varies slightly year by year, but it's a well-guarded tradition that begins around mid-to-late October. The aim is to have everything ready by Thanksgiving week, as this is when visitors start to pour in for an early taste of the holiday season.
- It takes about 3 weeks for the staff and volunteers to festoon the restaurant with a staggering array of ornaments, lights, and decorations.
- Expectations are high, and the first glimpse of the Christmas decorations at Rolf's is like the opening of a brand-new blockbuster movie; the hype is real, and the event is often shared across social media platforms.
Where is Rolf's and How to Get There
Rolf's German Restaurant, located at 22nd Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan, might seem like an unlikely place for such a spectacle, but therein lies its charm. Here's how you can plan your visit:
- Subway: Take the N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, or 6 trains to 23rd Street Station. From there, it's a short walk to the restaurant.
- Bus: M1, M2, M3, M15, M101, M102, and M103 all stop nearby.
- Car: If driving, there's limited street parking, but the hassle is often worth it for the once-in-a-season experience.
What to Expect Inside Rolf's at Christmas
Rolf's transforms into a forest of red, green, and gold, with a kaleidoscope of ornaments dangling from every conceivable space. Here's what makes it so special:
- Over 50,000 ornaments hung with care, creating an environment that feels both chaotic and magical.
- Every available surface, from walls to ceilings, is adorned with lights and greenery, reminiscent of a scene from a Christmas fairy tale.
- The atmosphere is one of warmth and joy, with visitors often describing the interior as something out of "The Nutcracker" or a Dickens novel.
Timing Your Visit to Rolf's
Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of planning your visit to see Rolf's Christmas decorations:
Weekdays vs. Weekends
| Timing | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays |
|
May not be as lively as the weekend experience |
| Weekends |
|
|
The Rush and the Wait
The closer we get to Christmas, the longer the lines become at Rolf's. Here are some tips:
- Consider visiting early in the season to avoid peak crowd times.
- Go during weekdays or at off-peak hours like lunchtimes or late in the evening.
- Be prepared for a wait; some visitors have waited up to 2 hours to get a seat.
- Use this time to explore the neighborhood or plan a walking tour of nearby holiday decorations.
Planning Your Experience
Dining at Rolf's
While the decorations are the main draw, dining at Rolf's during the Christmas season adds to the experience:
- The menu is German, but there are traditional holiday dishes available.
- Dinners and brunches are particularly popular, but they can fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.
- Try the German Beer or some festive cocktails to get in the spirit.
- The ambiance is magical, with twinkling lights and an incredible staff that adds to the festive environment.
Capturing the Magic
Rolf's is not just a place to eat; it's a destination for holiday pictures:
- Bring your camera or smartphone for photos, but remember that flash photography might be frowned upon during busy times.
- The restaurant often gets requests for festive Instagram posts, so join in on the trend!
🎅 Note: Rolf's can be a very busy place during the holiday season, so patience and holiday cheer are a must.
🎄 Note: Keep in mind that on peak days, like Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve, visiting Rolf's requires significant advance planning and perhaps even a dose of luck.
With this in-depth look into Rolf's 2017 Christmas Decorating, you now have all the information needed to plan your visit. Whether you're coming for the visual feast, the German cuisine, or simply to soak up the festive atmosphere, the anticipation for when Rolf's adorns itself for the holiday season adds an extra layer of excitement to the run-up to Christmas. Just remember, when you plan your visit, you're not just coming for a meal or a glimpse at the decorations—you're stepping into a tradition that has become part of the tapestry of New York's holiday heritage.
When does Rolf’s start setting up for Christmas?
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Rolf’s usually begins its festive transformation in mid-to-late October, aiming to be ready for the Thanksgiving week.
How long does the Christmas display last at Rolf’s?
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The Christmas decorations at Rolf’s stay up from late November until the new year, providing ample time for visits.
Can you make reservations at Rolf’s during the holiday season?
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Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for dinners and brunches during the peak holiday times.
