We’ve rounded up our favorite spots across the Bay Area where families can enjoy a festive meal together, no cleanup required. Whether you live in San Francisco, the South Bay, North Bay or East Bay, we've picked out the best family-friendly spots. Let’s eat!

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in San Francisco

1. Brenda's French Soul Food 

Brenda’s serves up soulful Southern/Creole comfort food all day with favorites such as crawfish-stuffed beignets, shrimp and grits, fried chicken, po’boys and biscuits in a cozy, down-home setting that’s relaxed enough for families. 

2. Crab House at Pier 39

Crab House is a longtime family favorite thanks to its famous roasted Dungeness crab, garlic-truffle fries, and beautiful waterfront setting that keeps kids entertained. The menu includes plenty of seafood classics along with simpler options for younger or picky eaters. 

3. Fog Harbor Fish House

Fog Harbor serves fresh, sustainable seafood with family-pleasing staples such as clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, seafood cioppino, and simple grilled fish options with sweeping bay views, making it an easy pick for families who want a relaxed but memorable holiday dinner.  

4. STK Steakhouse

STK blends a modern steakhouse menu with enough kid-friendly sides, including mac and cheese and fries, to keep young diners satisfied while parents enjoy something a little more elevated. The upbeat setting adds a festive touch without drifting into overly formal territory. We love this one for its “nice night out” feel while staying approachable for families.

5. The Lounge at the Ritz Carlton

Get dressed up for dinner at the luxe Ritz Carlton on Christmas Day. The menu features three-course prix-fixe items with favorites like prime rib with mashed potatoes, chestnut spaghetti and salmo as well as all the sides and desserts. Afterwards, take a stroll in Nob Hill to check out all the holiday lights. 

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in North Bay and Marin County

6. Creekside Pizza & Taproom—San Anselmo

If looking for a casual, kid-friendly pizza plus craft beer spot with relaxed holiday hours, check out Creekside Pizza. It's got simple food, easy parking, and a chill vibe, ideal for families who just want a no‑fuss dinner.

7. Salito's Crab House—Sausalito

Salito’s pairs a sunny waterfront deck overlooking Richardson Bay with hearty surf‑and‑turf fare that appeals across ages, making it a reliable holiday dinner destination for families. Its menu includes show‑stoppers such as whole roasted Dungeness crab, sizzling iron skillets of mussels, shrimp, or crab, and juicy prime rib cuts.

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in East Bay

8. Creek House Dim Sum Restaurant—Walnut Creek

Creek House specializes in dim sum with small plates such as shrimp dumplings, pork buns, and fried spring rolls that are easy for little hands to enjoy. Its family-style approach makes it simple to sample multiple dishes and satisfy a range of tastes.

9. Hong Kong East Ocean Seafood Restaurant—Emeryville

With shareable Cantonese dishes and kid‑friendly seafood and noodles, East Ocean is a dependable option when you want takeout or a casual sit‑down, no turkey prep required.

10. Jo's Modern Thai—Oakland

This menu hits the marks for both adults and kids, with dishes such as pad Thai, “drunken noodles,” coconut-cake appetizers, or mild curries, so everyone can find something they love.

11. Skates on the Bay—Berkeley

Come for the fresh seafood and stay for the stunning Marina Bay views at Skates on the Bay in Berkeley. Its three-course Christmas menu includes favorites such as lobseter bisque, Ceasar salad, prime rib, and cheesecake. 

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in South and Peninsula

12. Jade China Restaurant—San Jose

Jade China offers classic, family-friendly Chinese dishes such as sweet-and-sour chicken, lo mein, and dumplings in a casual, welcoming space. It’s a convenient option for parents looking for a simple, reliable Christmas Day meal.

13. Quattro Restaurant and Bar at the Four Seasons—Palo Alto

Quattro offers a polished, all-day holiday buffet menu in a hotel setting that feels special without being intimidating. Seasonal dishes such as seared scallops, truffle risotto, and prime rib give adults a treat while offering flavors for older kids.

14. Tong Soon Garden—Santa Clara

Tong Soon Garden serves a mix of Chinese and Korean comfort foods, including kid-friendly beef bulgogi, fried rice, and mild noodle dishes. Its relaxed, casual atmosphere makes it a low-stress choice for a holiday dinner out or takeout.

15. Valley Goat—Sunnyvale

Located in the recently opened Treehouse Hotel, Valley Goat is serving up holiday classics and new items for the whole family. Be sure to check out the rest of the hotel and let the kids play outside in the beer garden afterward.