I finally made it back to one of my favorite holiday spots in New York City — the Bryant Park Winter Village — and this time, I brought a very special guest: Barbie! If you’ve been following me for a while, you already know how much I love a good seasonal market, especially during the holidays. But Bryant Park? It’s the one. The quintessential Christmas market in NYC.
We filmed this whole little adventure for Vlogmas Episode 2, so you can come along with us virtually too. Watch below or keep reading for all the cozy details, food recs, and a few NYC tips you definitely don’t want to miss.
🎥 If you’re new here — hi, I’m Flor! A thirty-something originally from Argentina, now living in NYC with my husband, daughter, and our Frenchie, Oreo. I make content about city life, fashion, motherhood, and everything in between — and during December, I go full-on Vlogmas mode.
The Holiday Market That Turned Me Into a Christmas Person 🎄
Let me preface this by saying: I didn’t grow up loving Christmas. Being from Argentina, Christmas for me was always in the middle of summer. It was about barbecues, hanging in the garden, and maybe a very loud uncle. Not exactly Hallmark movie vibes.
But Bryant Park’s Winter Village changed me.
It was the first place that ever gave me those magical, rom-com holiday feelings — twinkly lights, cold air, people ice skating under a giant Christmas tree, actual hot chocolate in hand. It’s all very “main character in a Netflix holiday movie,” and I’m not even mad about it.
What We Ate (Because, Priorities)
Let’s be honest: we came for the snacks. And we did not leave disappointed.
🧀 Truffle Cheese Steaks & Fries from Truffleist
This was our #1 must-try, and OMG. They were even better than expected. The truffle fries were chef’s kiss — crispy, cheesy, earthy in that truffle-y way, and completely addictive. The truffle steak sandwich? Also amazing. Savory, juicy, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without being overwhelming.
If you’re a truffle fan (or even just truffle-curious), this stand is a must.
☕ Coffee & Cozy Drinks
We started our little market crawl with a coffee from Joe Coffee, which hit the spot on a humid, foggy day. I swear, NYC weather in December is chaos — one second it’s cute and chilly, the next your hair is 2007-level frizzy. But hot drinks make everything better.
We also tried a hot chocolate that wasn’t the viral marshmallow one (you know the one), and honestly? I liked it more. Just classic, cozy hot chocolate — not too sweet, not too rich, just right. If you’re into the viral stuff, definitely split it with someone. It’s gorgeous, but so much sugar.
🍫 Chocolate Truffles from “No Chewing Allowed”
The name alone made me giggle, and these little truffles were the perfect sweet treat to end the day. Not too heavy, and available in a bunch of fun flavors like pistachio, raspberry, and popcorn (?!). If you’re into gifting edible souvenirs, these are super cute.
Beyond the Food: Why You Should Visit (Even If You’re Not a Tourist)
Look, I know NYC can feel a lot during the holidays. Crowds, lines, and overpriced everything. But the Winter Village really is worth it — especially if you time it right.
Here are a few tips to make the most of it:
- Avoid weekends and peak hours. Try weekdays or early mornings for a more relaxed vibe.
- Do a little research beforehand. It helps to check out which vendors will be there if you want to plan your bites.
- Bring friends or family. Sharing food means trying more stuff (and spending less).
- It’s open longer than you think. Bryant Park’s market usually runs from late November through early March — not just December! So if you’re visiting NYC in January or February, you can still catch it.
Also, if you’re traveling with kids, this is such a fun family activity. There’s ice skating, cute treats, and so many festive photo ops. And if you’re traveling solo or with friends? Even better. You can snack your way around the world without ever leaving Midtown.
Final Thoughts from a Now-Converted Christmas Girl 🎅🏼
Barbie mentione how this year marked the first time she really felt the holiday season in that magical, snowy way. And honestly? She is into it. Cozy coats, lights everywhere, surprise snow flurries, holiday jazz playing as you walk through the city…
So whether you’re a longtime NYC local, planning a winter trip, or just vibing with some virtual Christmas content — I hope this blog post (and the vlog!) gave you a little joy.
Let me know in the comments:
Have you been to the Bryant Park Winter Village? What’s your favorite holiday market snack?
Until next time —
xo, Flor
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