In the heart of New York City, locals and tourists alike are gearing up for the highly anticipated lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center. While many may dread the ensuing chaos and congestion that accompanies this annual event, there are some who have mastered the art of navigating the bustling crowds.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the holiday spirit without getting trampled by the masses, there are a few insider tips to keep in mind. One local suggests heading towards the small, sunken areas just above the rink on either side of the tree, as they provide a close vantage point without the risk of being knocked over.

In addition to securing a prime viewing spot, visitors can also indulge in some of the new dining options that Rockefeller Center has recently introduced. Among the most successful establishments are the Italian cafe Lodi and the eccentric French brasserie Le Rock, both located above ground on opposite sides of the rink. These restaurants offer a full sit-down meal experience and have garnered positive reviews from patrons.

Delving deeper into the culinary offerings, one discovers a mixed bag of hits and misses. Unfortunately, the bakery at Lodi, known for its exquisite Italian pastries and breads, has been dismantled to make room for more tables, leaving a void that is sorely missed. The concourse area also falls short in terms of casual, inexpensive dining options, often leaving patrons with lackluster meal choices. However, there are still satisfying quick lunch or snack options available, such as Detroit-style pizza, capocollo from Italy, and Montreal-inspired bagels.

When it comes to pizza, one standout recommendation is Ace's Pizza, a standing-room-only pizzeria with retro wood paneling. Ace's specializes in Detroit-style pizza, a Sicilian variant with a crispy cheese edge that sets it apart. Their crusts are airy and tender, reminiscent of an old-fashioned Pullman loaf. The garlic-cheese bread is also a must-try, made with the same dough as the pizzas.

For sandwich enthusiasts, Alidoro is a hidden gem that requires a little perseverance to find. Located around the back of Naro, Alidoro offers simple but effective sandwiches made with fresh bread, imported cold cuts, local mozzarella, and crisp greens. The prosciutto, peppers, and mushroom spread-filled Alidoro sandwich has garnered a loyal following.

As for bagels, Black Seed Bagels is a popular spot with a consistently long line. While the wait may be off-putting, toasting the bagels adds a darker, crunchier finish reminiscent of the wood-fired Montreal bagels they are modeled after.

For those seeking an escape from the holiday madness, a few establishments offer happy hour options. The Tipsy Baker, known for its viennoiseries in the morning, transforms into a candlelit wine bar at night, providing a cozy respite from the crowds. Blue Ribbon Sushi in the concourse caters to sushi enthusiasts with its ready-made sushi boxes and poke bowls, but during happy hour, freshly wrapped hand rolls can be enjoyed for just $8, accompanied by a two-for-one special on beer and sake.

21 Greenpoint, a branch of a Brooklyn hangout famous for its cheeseburgers, offers a happy hour deal featuring half a dozen oysters and a glass of wine for $21. And for those in need of some immediate stress relief, a shot and a beer combo can be purchased for $12.

With the holiday season in full swing, Rockefeller Center promises a festive atmosphere and a range of culinary experiences. While there may be some hits and misses among the dining options, there are still plenty of delicious offerings to be enjoyed by those who know where to look. So, whether you're braving the crowds for the tree lighting or seeking solace in a cozy wine bar, Rockefeller Center has something to offer everyone this holiday season.