The 411 on NYE

Here’s hoping everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

There are a lot of musings around town about who’s doing what for New Year’s Eve. A number of restaurants have designed prix-fixe menu specials including the Spiced Pear at The Chanler, which is hosting an early seating (6-8 p.m.) 4-course dinner ($75); and a late seating (8-10 p.m.) with a 7-course dinner ($110). Those with a sweet tooth should know they’ll be serving their extraordinary Flambe – check out this link from The Rhode Show to see their chef prepare the decadent dessert.

The Pier is serving an a la carte menu with two dinner seatings, one at 5:30 p.m. and one at 8:30 p.m., both with live music and the latter of which offers a party package for an additional $25 that includes champagne, party favors and commemorative t-shirts. Meanwhile, The Barking Crab is serving up a NYE Lobster Dinner with a glass of wine or pint of Newport Storm. The Bay Voyage in Jamestown  is hosting a New Years Eve Party package with dinner and overnight accommodations. The Fifth Element will be in full swing by NYE, starting dinner service at 5 p.m. with DJ Butch spinning later in the evening and the champagne flowing at midnight. Call 619-2552 for Fifth dinner reservations. Other spots like One-Eighty, Pop Kitchen + Cocktails and O’Brien’s Pub said they’re still in the planning stages…

Ok, on to the parties…

Christie’s is doing a “Blast from the Past” Masquerade Ball…your $60 ticket gets you DJ Henney spinning all night, two drink tickets, passed hors d’eouvres, midnight balloon drop, and a prize for the Best Dressed Duo. Call 846-8018 for reservations.

Forty 1° North is doing NYE in The Gallery and out at the fire pits, with hors d’oeuvres, a sushi bar, and decadent desserts with a DJ and dancing (41°N Card holders get a complimentary Signature Cocktail that night and a “Rebound Smoothie” at Christie’s the next day) for $70… Call 846-8018 for reservations.

Newport Blues Café is ringing in the New Year with pop powerhouse Sugar. Tickets: $25 general admission (available online) for the show only. Dinner packages: $75 includes 5-course dinner and champagne toast ($150/couple). Call 841-5510 for reservations.

It’s all coming in, so I’ll keep you posted!