Earlier this week, we shared a list of restaurants that offer reasonably-priced ways to bid farewell to 2011.
But what about if you're a Maybach-driving playa for whom money is no object? You're going to want to start your evening with a nice (i.e. expensive) New Year's Eve extravaganza. We've got you covered.
On our list you'll find no restaurant that has a dinner for less than $250 per person (unless you're talking about kiddie deals), although some restaurants may have earlier seatings at more reasonable rates. (But you don't roll with the early-bird crowd, do you?)
Also note that these prices usually don't include tax and gratuities (or booze in most cases), so be prepared to break the bank at these New Year's Eve dinners.
The Restaurant at the Setai
The Midnight in Marrakesh celebration allows you to pretend you're in Morocco as The Setai is transformed into an Arabian oasis, complete with Bedouin tents, copper lanterns, and Moroccan carpets. A six-course European-inspired dinner prapared by Executive Chef David Werly is accompanied by DJ's, dancers, and tarot card readers. It's $695 per adult, $195 for kids 12 and under (exclusive of tax and gratuity). If you drink too much, rooms are available starting at $1,400.
The Delano
Grammy-nominee Robin Thicke performs live at poolside, along with a DJ. A four-course dinner includes a champagne toast and an h'ors d'oeuvres reception, starting at 9 p.m. Dinner is $425 per person, party is $150 per person, both together $525 per person. Really want to impress? Tables start at $1,000.
Zuma
A tasting menu is $275 per person for the late seating (after 8 p.m.). Add $95 for a wine pairing.
Mr. Chow
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a three-course dinner, complete with a bottle of Cristal Champagne per couple. A DJ and balloons add to the festivities. $300 per person for late seating (after 9 p.m.).
Azul
Executive chef Joel Huff prepares a six-course culinary journey, followed by a Champagne toast at midnight. $350 per person.
Hakkasan
Five-course family-style dinner (includes Champagne toast). 9:30 p.m. seating, $275 per person.
Gotham Steak
Five-course menu includes Mesquite Grilled Filet Mignon and a DJ. $275 for 9:30 seating.
Nobu
Tasting menu includes a bottle of Cristal per couple. $300 per person.
Villa Mayfair
A crystal-and-white theme marks the first New Year's celebration at this Coconut Grove restaurant. Three-course dinner, mini appetizers, a three-hour open bar, and a half bottle of Champagne Roederer per person. $250 per person.
Prime One Twelve
$300 per person gets you no food -- just the ability to make a reservation for after 10 p.m. (a bottle of Cristal per couple is included). Food priced separately.
Red The Steakhouse
A four-course menu that includes many options, including a New York strip for $199 may sound reasonable, but add-ons can make this one extravagant celebration. Add, for example, some caviar ($99 per ounce), a platter of oysters, clams, shrimp, mussels, and calamari ($39), and upgrade your steak ($24-79 additional), and you're talking a party for high rollers.
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