On Christmas Day a huge crowd can be seen in Chinese restaurants, especially in New York City. The fact is that the footfall is at its peak during Christmas and Christmas Eve in most American Chinese restaurants. The blend of Christmas and Chinese food is a winning combination. In a survey by Google Trends on a Christmas Eve, the most popular searches are on keywords like Chinese food New York or Chinese restaurant in NYC, etc.
This trend is not found on internet searches alone. In 2013, Christmas Day orders for Chinese food escalated by 152%, as reported by GrubHub. It means it is an old trend that has continued till today. So, remember to book early to make the most of Cantonese duck or Gala dinner options. The Chinese restaurants in NYC are very busy during Christmas and other holidays!
Tradition of Chinese Food On Christmas Day
Chinese food became a favorite within non-Christian ethnic groups. The preference for Cantonese cuisine seems to have become a tradition in New York City as far back as the late 1800s. People of other races who settled in America who didn't typically celebrate Christmas realized that they had time off to spend with family. But had no traditions they could call their own. Chinese restaurants served the traditional dishes during Christmas week. That welcoming environment gave birth to a longstanding love affair, the undying love for Chinese food New York.
Chinese cuisine represented an urban lifestyle in the early 1900s. Modern Americans loved ordering Chinese food as a way to celebrate the great American cultural melting pot. Chinese cuisine has an extensive variety and many price points to organize an affordable treat for budget-conscious families. Chinese restaurants offer a family environment, encouraging sharing and camaraderie. Many San Franciscans choose to order a Chinese meal on Christmas Eve or even Christmas Day during celebrations. They like the unwinding, pleasant, and soothing atmosphere of a Chinese restaurant.
Chinese Food Top Event During Christmas
The listing of Lifehacker reveals that eating Chinese food is one of the top events on Christmas Day. Other traditional events may be going for a movie in a theater, as many new films are released on Christmas Day. Lifehacker also recommends visiting parks and open spaces or indulging in a favorite hobby. A Chinese restaurant, especially in New York, will be a great place to socialize during holidays.
Some other cuisines also have a good response on December 25. The dine-in orders and takeaway for Muslim halal, Indian, dim sum, kosher, Thai, and Vietnamese food are also high. But the level of popularity of Chinese food cannot be matched by other cuisines. Moreover, Chinese food in New York is nutrient-dense and fiber-rich and doesn't involve greasy foods.
Popular Chinese Dishes For Christmas Day
GrubHub came up with a list of top Chinese dishes that are ordered the most on Christmas Day. They are:
- General Tso's chicken
- Crab Rangoon
- Egg Rolls
- Sesame Chicken
- Wonton Soup
- Fried Rice
- Sweet & Sour Chicken
- Orange Chicken
- Hot and Sour Soup
- Pot Stickers
Cantonese Cuisine Offers Thrilling Experience
A major trait of Cantonese food, on top of its moderate heat, is that it is carbohydrate-based. Chinese food New York places a lot of emphasis on fresh ingredients and flavorful herbs and spices. A lot of variety is available, including dumplings, buns, breads, and noodles. One typical example is the good old dim sum, a delicious mix of breakfast buns and dumplings. The Americans love this dish.
The other notable delicacies that form a part of elaborate Cantonese cuisine include meat, especially beef and fowl. But the inclination is to preserve the natural, pure flavor of the animal. Opposed to experimenting with different flavors by adding heavy spices or sauces. To say it in simple words, it mimics the Tuscan food, which is simple and elegant.
If you are a noodle connoisseur, you will really enjoy the rice noodles with beef. At the outset, the absence of chili peppers and vinegar will be a surprise for your palate, but shortly afterwards, you'll realize that you could enjoy the distinctive flavors of beef, julienned vegetables, and noodles. You will have a unique experience different from the regular spicy noodles. You'll taste the natural sweetness of noodles and their inherent flavors, a truly thrilling experience.
Summing Up
The tradition that started among the ethnic communities in New York City a century back has enveloped the whole country. The first area influenced by Chinese food was San Francisco, due to the thriving Chinese community. To keep the tradition alive, book your Christmas Eve, Christmas, or Boxing Day meal at your favorite Chinese restaurant. However, remember the restaurants in your city may be fully booked. Summing up, reserve your table early to enjoy your favorite dishes with your family.
