Janis: Jean Georges looks to be open Christmas for lunch and dinner. The price is about $20 more than Sea Grill. I know Sea Grill has its fans due to location but honestly, it is really a dressed-up chain restaurant run by a company with casino and airport food outlets. With so many great restaurants around, and so little time, I'd not advise you to waste a meal there.

Hmmm, with that logic, people should avoid Spago in LA because Wolfgang Puck also has chain restaurants in malls and airports. Two of the finest meals I've had in NYC were at Sea Grill. Does one think they bring in their food prepared and frozen like some chains?

That said, I'm not sure how it would be on a major holiday as I suspect it is so popular, it might suffer.

Thanks ekscrunchy.

It seems to be too early to book at Jean Georges -- I get the "Your requested date exceeds the maximum advance reservation limit for Jean Georges." message.

I went ahead and booked the Sea Grill -- I know it's not quite in the same league as Jean Georges but it will certainly be good and is soooo convenient w/ my hotel/Sea Grill/Radio City Music Hall all a short walk apart.

Later I'll maybe try to book Jean Georges for Christmas Eve - that would be a pretty nice couple of dinners back to back

OK -- apparently it is too early to book lots of places besides Jean Georges so I'll wait 'til the first of Oct and try again to book for Xmas Eve.

Maybe before then I'll come to my senses and decide I don't really need to spend $350+ for two posh dinners back to back

Your plan sounds great. If the weather is bad you'll have all your food and entertainment within walking distance.