The holidays are magical, but they can also be hectic. Between last-minute shopping, visiting relatives and squeezing in every festive event, cooking a full dinner on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day might be the last thing you want to tackle.

Luckily, Downtown Arlington has you covered. Whether you’re looking for a cozy sit-down meal, a place to grab an easy dinner to take home or a festive spot that keeps its doors open during the holidays, several downtown favorites are ready to make your season a little simpler (and a lot tastier).

The Sanford House Inn & Spa

If you’re looking for an upscale, elegant spot for a quiet and easy holiday dinner or even a staycation, The Sanford House fits the bill. It’s a boutique hotel, spa and fine-dining destination in the heart of downtown.

Its on-site restaurant, Restaurant506, offers inspired American cuisine in a calm, refined environment with a festive atmosphere this holiday season.

Tips: Even if you’re not staying overnight, you could book dinner (or brunch) here for a relaxing holiday vibe. While other restaurants close for Christmas, a place like this feels like a hidden gem.

Cafe Americana

For another elevated, festive holiday meal, Cafe Americana is a great bet. Their 2025 Christmas Eve dinner service runs 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a three-course menu available.

The menu includes holiday-friendly dishes, plus gluten-free and vegetarian options with an always-incredible cocktail menu.

Tips: Reservations are strongly recommended. Christmas Eve tends to be busy, and tables may fill up fast. If you want a simple dinner without cooking at home, this is a solid downtown option for Christmas Eve. Cafe Americana is closed Christmas Day.

Other Downtown Picks Worth Considering

If you’re flexible and open to alternatives beyond those two, there are a few more downtown Arlington spots that might be good bets, especially if you just want a comfortable, local meal without fuss.

• Hurtado Barbecue — A laid-back spot for Texas-style barbecue with a Tex-Mex twist, known for bold flavors, generous portions, and a casual atmosphere that makes it easy to enjoy a no-frills meal downtown.

• Cane Rosso Arlington — If pizza or a casual night out sounds good, this is a fun, relaxed alternative downtown.

• The Tipsy Oak — A more casual, easygoing place with comfort food and drinks — might be good if you want something simple before the holidays.

A Few Final Tips for Holiday Dining Downtown

• Call ahead or check online — Holiday hours can shift suddenly, so even for places that are “usually open,” it’s wise to confirm.

• Book early for favorites like Cafe Americana or The Sanford House, especially on Christmas Eve when many people want to avoid cooking.

• Consider a fallback plan — If your first choice is full, spots like Binions, Cane Rosso, or The Tipsy Oak are generally more flexible and often spotty for last-minute diners.

• Think cozy or casual, depending on your mood.

No matter how you’re celebrating this year—gathering with family, catching up with friends, or enjoying a peaceful holiday at home—Downtown Arlington offers convenient and delicious options to keep your holiday dinner stress-free. From elegant dining rooms to laid-back local favorites, there’s a spot for every kind of celebration. As always, make sure to check hours or make a reservation before you go, since holiday schedules can change. Here’s to warm meals, joyful moments, and a wonderful holiday season in Downtown Arlington.