Breakfast with Santa in NYC: 7 Holiday Brunches for Kids and Families

We've already told you about the best places to take photos with Santa in New York City. But what if your kid wants a heartier visit with the big red guy? In that case, a tasty breakfast with Santa (or brunch or tea) may be in order.

We've found seven spots where families can enjoy a special holiday meal with Old Saint Nick, from inexpensive pancake brunches hosted by local organizations to lavish spreads at Rockefeller Center and the Plaza Hotel. There's even a Santa dining cruise! Regardless of which one you choose, be sure to bring your camera—and your appetite. For more holiday fun for families, check out our NYC Holiday Guide.

Santa Brunch and Parade – Greenpoint
Greenpoint Beacon Center at JHS 126, 424 Leonard Street between Bayard Street and Manhattan Avenue
Saturday, December 8 11am-1pm
$10 per person for brunch; free for the parade
Munch on pancakes, sausages and bacon, make holiday-themed arts and crafts, and pose for pics with the man of the season. Buying advance tickets is required. Afterward, burn off those calories at a no-cost Santa parade to McCarren Park, where local families will trim the tree and sing Christmas carols. Revelers are encouraged to bring unwrapped new toys to the brunch or park for a toy drive.

Breakfast with Santa Aboard the Zephyr Yacht – South Street Seaport
Pier 16 at South Street Seaport
Saturday, December 15 boards at 9:30am, returns by noon
$35 for adults, $25 for children ages 3-12, $100 for a family of four
Join Santa and Frosty for a fun-filled Christmas cruise around the Statue of Liberty aboard the plush vessel. This merry party includes a delicious breakfast buffet, a live deejay, dancing and festive reindeer games with the big red guy. Families are encouraged to bring unwrapped new toys for a Hurricane Sandy toy drive. Buying tickets in advance is recommended.

Breakfast with Santa at Aviator Sports and Events Center – Marine Park
3159 Flatbush Avenue
Sunday, December 16 9am-1pm
$22 for adults, $20 for children ages 3-12
Hit the popular Brooklyn athletics complex for pancakes, eggs and other breakfast goodies, plus one Bloody Mary or mimosa per adult. Kids can also pose for a free photo on Santa's lap and enjoy cupcake decorating and crafts. Must RSVP by Monday, December 10.

Beastly Breakfast with Santa at the Staten Island Zoo – Staten Island
614 Broadway at Colonial Court
Saturday, December 15 9:30-11:30am
$24 per person, free for children under age 3
Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet with Santa and his animal pals, pose for a free photo with the big red guy and then take a special behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo. Reservations required. Call 718-442-3101 ext. 33.

Brunch with Santa at the Greenbelt Recreation Center – Staten Island
501 Brielle Avenue between Rockland and Walcott Avenues
Sunday, December 16 10-11:30am for children ages 2-5 and noon-1:30pm for children ages 6-9
FREE
The Staten Island rec center hosts a pair of no-cost brunches with Santa. Snap pics of your kids with the man of the hour and learn about family memberships. Preregistration required. Call 718-667-3545.

Breakfast with Santa at Rockefeller Center – Midtown West
Saturdays, December 8, 15 and 22; Sundays, December 9, 16 and 23; Friday, December 21 and Monday, December 24, times vary. Visit the website for the complete schedule.
The Sea Grill, 19 West 49th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues: $75 for adults, $65 for children
Rock Center Café, 20 West 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues: $65 for adults, $55 for children
Gaze at Rock Center's sparkling Christmas tree and the skaters twirling on the rink as you dig into breakfast with Santa and his elves at The Sea Grill or the Rock Center Café. All kids receive a special gift from Santa and all diners enjoy VIP admission to the skating rink, which means no waiting! Advance reservations required and they're going fast!

Rawther Fancy Tea with Santa – Midtown East
The Plaza Hotel, Fifth Avenue at 58th Street
Fridays, December 7, 14 and 21 4-5pm
$75 per person
Got a little who's been really nice, not naughty? Then consider indulging in this sumptuous tea at the Eloise at The Plaza shop where you get to snack with Santa in high style. A photo session with Kris Kringle follows. Reservations required. Call 212-546-5450 or email eloise@theplaza.com.

Find lots of other seasonal fun in our Holiday Guide and great gift ideas in our NYC Shopping Local Gift Guide.