BELKYS NEREY
Belkys Nerey is now the co-anchor of WSVN (Channel 7) News, following six years on Deco Drive.
My best New Year's Eve started out as my worst New Year's Eve. I had to work because of that whole Y2K drama. My crew and I ended up on a rooftop at a hotel on Ocean Drive. I had a couple of friends up there waiting for me to get off the air. We finally wrapped up our coverage at 1:00 a.m. I was exhausted but my friend (and then Bar Room owner) Ingrid Casares had invited me to a party at the club. My two friends and I walked into the space. There must have been no more than 50 people there, really cozy and intimate. There was a DJ but in addition, a trumpet player and a percussionist playing to the beat of the DJ's music. I look over and I see this woman dancing with a tambourine and everyone is in a circle standing around her, clapping and just egging her on to keep dancing. When she finishes the room erupts in applause, and the energy is just amazing. I look over and say to my friend, "Wow, what a cool idea to hire a dancer to get the crowd going." My friend looks up at me and says, "It's Madonna." Need I say more.
CLUBS
Automatic Slim: Automatic Slim is the place where the beautiful people get ugly. Theyll get real ugly on New Years Eve, when the joint offers a $50 all-you-can-drink special. 1216 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-695-0795.
Bermuda Bar & Grill: One of the longest-running dance parties is getting ready for another New Years bash. This party features complimentary drinks till 2 a.m. Also included is a champagne toast at midnight for the big balloon drop. Then show off your moves until 6 a.m., when its time to go home. Arrive before midnight and pay a $25 cover charge. 3509 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, 305-945-0196.
Big Fish: Party the year away on the banks of a cleaner Miami River (supposedly) at Big Fish. Live music and DJs will keep the rumps bouncing and maybe even swimming, but not in the river, we hope. 55 SW Miami Ave Rd, 305-373-1770.
Bongos Cuban Cafe: Theres nothing like a Cuban bash to ring in the New Year. The stylish Tropicana-style supper club will have the congas rocking. Bongos is offering dinner and dancing for $95 per person. 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 786-777-2100.
Chamber Lounge: There is no cover at Chamber Lounge, so a memorable, as well as inexpensive, New Years awaits those intelligent enough to swing by. Who said South Beach isnt generous? Enjoy music by Sobe Souls David Solero, party favors, and a champagne toast, so tip well. 2940 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-673-0388.
crobar: Crobar at the Cameo Theatre presents the Premier 2004 New Years bash. Red carpet rolls out at 9 p.m. General admission seats are $50, which includes a champagne reception at midnight and New Years party favors. Tickets are on sale at groovetickets.com. DJs include Cedric Gervais and Pedro in the main room, Stephan Luke and Juan Mejia in the VIP room, and Matt Martinez and Nelson Diaz in the ultra-VIP room (de pinga!). Tables are available starting at $150 a person and will need to be paid in advance. For table reservations call 305-672-8084. 1445 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-531-5027.
Hooligans Pub & Oyster Bar: Looking for a fun party without spending wads of cash just to get through the door? Then drive on over to this pub. Not only is there no cover but you can help yourself to their buffet between 8 and 11 p.m. Party favors and a glass of bubbly are also included. Dance to the beats of Miamis top DJs until 5 a.m. If by that time youve had one too many, dont risk getting behind the wheel. Hooligans will give you a free ride home and a free tow for your car! 9555 S Dixie Hwy, 305-667-9673.
Hoy Como Ayer: This place is one of the best-kept secrets in Little Havana. Mark your calendars for an intimate evening of Latin fun with Albita and Mealena performing live. 2212 SW 8th St, 305-541-2631.
I/O: Party the night away with the grand kings of the hipster community -- the Spam Allstars and Poplife. Presale tickets go for $40 per couple, or $25 per person. Admission on New Years will be $30 per person. It includes a midnight champagne toast and hors doeuvres. Poplife rules! 30 NE 14th St, 305-358-8007.
Jade: Enjoy an erotic New Years with the folks from Bliss as they throw a black and white ball with music by DJ Vasquez and two hours of champagne. Single women will be admitted free, and couples in theme will be $30. 1766 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, 305-695-0000.
Jimmyz: This party is bound to attract its share of glitterati. Admission costs $50 per person and includes party favors and a breakfast buffet. 432 41st St, Miami Beach, 305-538-8533.
La Covacha: If you are looking for Miamis hottest Latin and international party on New Years Eve this newly renovated club is the place for you. Join the festivities in the chickee hut with its sizzling dance floor and complimentary champagne, or spend a few extra dollars to gain access to the air-conditioned VIP room with adjoining terraces. 10730 NW 25th St, 305-594-3717.
Main Street Cafe: Start off the New Year by listening to some great folk music. Main Street Cafe is having the outrageous Eric Schwartz returning for his second year. There will be party favors, midnight champagne, and dinner specials as well as the house band, the Pathfinders, opening the night. Call for reservations. 128 N Krome Ave, Homestead, 305-245-7575.
Mangos Tropical Cafe: Make your New Years Eve stop here for a Latin-themed party complete with the live band Grupo Exito performing throughout the night. Enjoy a five-course dinner with a bottle of Moét Chandon champagne per couple before jumping onto the dance floor. Call for information. 900 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, 305-673-4422.
Margarita Mamas and Banana Joes: Coconut Groves fun-loving hangouts are ringing in the New Year with a buffet, DJ, champagne toast, and balloon drop. Call for details. 3015 Grand Ave, Coconut Grove, 305-461-1118.
Marlin Bar: Avoid the overpriced cover charges and all the hype. Spend the night at the Marlin, where theyre throwing a New York-style block party. Free party favors and champagne toast at midnight. 1200 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-604-5000.
Miami Velvet: For an erotic good time, take a swing (in more ways than one) to Miami Velvet. Dine on an extravagant dinner of filet mignon, lobster paella, shrimp cocktail, and many more dishes to choose from including fine desserts. The night will be hot with an erotically charged atmosphere as a live DJ spins the best tunes from 9 p.m. until dawn. The splendors of this risqué event are not for the faint of heart! 3901 NW 77th Ave, 305-406-1604.
Mr. Moes: Mr. Moes doesnt charge a cover, not even on New Years Eve. Just get by the big bouncer with the horrible mullet out front and you can enjoy live music and dancing in this Coconut Grove watering hole. Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove, 305-442-1114.
Mynt Ultralounge: Party the night away at the most exclusive club on South Beach. Tickets will be $150 per person from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. This will include sushi hors doeuvres and premium open bar. Live ball drop via satellite from Times Square. And of course, there will be party favors and giveaways. Limited general admission tickets at $100 per person from 1 a.m.- 7 a.m. The first seating will be from 9-1:30 a.m. The second seating is from 2 a.m.- 7 a.m. One table for 6 is $1000 and includes a bottle of champagne and a bottle of liquor with mixers. Each extra person added to the table is $100. In the main room, resident DJ K-2, Julian Ingrosso, and Chicco Secci spinning deep house and European house music. In the ultra lounge, DJ A.M. spinning hip-hop, R&B, and funk. Limited table reservations are available. 1921 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 786-276-6132.
Nerve: If you needed an all-star team of party people to put a fantastic New Years party together, well here you go: Gerry Kelly, Maxwell Blandford, and the one and only Rudolf Piper. Their New Years gig at Nerve, called Carnivale, features music by Pierre Zon Zon and Jon Cowan and a whole lot of outrageous shows, costumes, and party favors for only $30 (advance tickets). 247 23rd St, Miami Beach, 305-695-8697.
Nikki Beach Club: Celebrate the arrival of 2004 at Nikki Beach this New Years Eve. Enjoy the new year on the sandy white beach under the glistening moonlight and shining stars. Located steps from the water, this open-air complex is perfect for those who want to spend an evening in the great outdoors, with the great indoors right behind you. Dont forget to grab your party favors and bubbly at midnight for the balloon drop and fireworks display. The sounds of a special guest DJ will flavor the night, coupled with a spectacular fireworks display and party favors. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are now available online for $50 each. After December 22, they will be available for $75 each. Get your tickets now! 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, 305-538-1111.
Opium Garden: Ring in the New Year while schmoozing with celebrities at Opium and Prives bash. This indoor/outdoor spacious complex features five DJs and four rooms to choose from, including DJ Mark Ronson in the garden, and Ivano Bellini will spin the best house, so every musical taste will be satisfied. Arrive early for the open bar between 9 and 11 p.m. Cost for general admission for Opium is $100, $200 for all-access VIP to Prive, $1150 for Opium VIP tables, and $1500 for Prives platinum VIP tables. All tables come with one bottle of premium liquor and one bottle of champagne. 136 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-531-5535.
Oxygen Lounge: The Groves hottest lounge celebrates with fun and entertainment sure to leave you gasping for oxygen, and so will the packed house. The event includes open premium bar and sushi, Pan-Asian buffet until midnight, party favors (plastic ones), and a champagne toast. Call for information. 2911 Grand Ave, Streets Of Mayfair, Coconut Grove, 305-476-0202.
OZone: Make it a Gothic, industrial, electroclash New Year at the Nightmare Before 2004, featuring alternative music and DJs including Draculas Daughter & Danny Bled. A $10 minimum includes your first drink and a Blood Red Champagne Toast at the Witching Hour. 6620 Red Rd, South Miami, 305-666-6791.
Privilege: Party this New Years away to the phattest techno tunes on the planet in this two-story South Beach favorite. 637 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-695-9909.
Rumi: Celebrate at this upscale restaurant/lounge. For $200 per person, patrons will dine on a five-course gourmet meal with complimentary champagne, or you can just party the night away for a $50 cover. 330 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, 305-672-4353.
Sandbar Grill: Once again its the Pimp and Ho Ball at Sandbar, not to be confused with the Pimp and Ho party at another Coconut Grove bar. The Grill will be open for the long run, 11 a.m. December 31 to 3 a.m. January 1, with a free champagne toast at midnight. Featured are the Grills famous lobster tacos and what it calls the best food in town, which includes the whole Greater Miami area. 3064 Grand Ave, Coconut Grove, 305-444-5270.
Score: The balls will drop at Score, and not just the ones on the TV screens broadcasting Times Squares traditional balloon drop throughout the club. Lincoln Roads two-story gay bastion will offer a rocking New Years Eve. Guys in tight pants and muscle Ts get extra attention. 737 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, 305-535-1111.
Space 34: Party until way past the break of dawn at the hottest venue in Miami to the sounds of world-class DJ Oscar G. Call for information. 34 NE 11th St, 305-372-9378.
Sport Cafe: Have a sporty New Years at this South Beach hangout. Call for prices and information. 560 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-674-9700.
Studio: What better way to ring in the New Year than to sing at this karaoke bar. If youre tired of the same old, same old bash, try a jamming karaoke bar on South Beach. Ronnie will do the honors, and a champagne toast at midnight will set the festive mood. 1801 Collins Ave (Shelborne Hotel), Miami Beach, 305-695-1770.
Tantra: This restaurant/nightclub has lots to offer: Excellent cuisine to satisfy your appetite for food, and a live DJ will be present to satisfy your craving for good music. 1445 Pennsylvania Ave, Miami Beach, 305-672-4765.
Titanic Brewery and Restaurant: Come aboard the ship for the finest hand-crafted beer around. Avoid reservations, waiting lines, and cover charges at this joint. Listen to the rock musicians belt out good ol rock and roll tunes. 5813 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, 305-667-2537.
HOTELS, RESORTS, & CRUISES
Biscayne Bay Marriott: Start the New Years Eve in style at the Marriotts Bay View Grille for dinner and champagne. They dont call it the Bay View Grille for nothing -- a view of the bay in all its glory is exactly what youll get. Afterward head to the Venetia Lounge for the DJ and dancing, but dont trip, because everybodys watching. Call for information. 1633 N Bayshore Dr, 305-536-6315.
Casino Princesa: Casino Princesa will feature a New Years Cruise that sails at 8 p.m. and returns at 1:30 a.m. Onboard, enjoy a real Las Vegas casino with over 200 slot machines along with favorite casino games blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and more. The cruise is only $25 per person and includes a dinner buffet and champagne so you have plenty of cash left to blow. As always, drinks are free as long as youre playing, and thats a good thing. For info call 305-379-5825.
The Clevelander: New Years Eve at this Ocean Drive hot spot always rocks. 1020 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, 305-531-3485.
Delano Hotel: Rub elbows with celebs at this ultraclassy evening at the Delano. VIP Package is available for $1000 per person and includes specialty wines to complement a four-course menu created by Claude Troisgros and executive chef Damon Gordon, exclusive VIP seating in the Orchard, private concert by Rufus Wainwright & a special guest artist, admission to Delano party with Mark Ronson. Party admission $300, includes open bar at Pool Bar. Only 450 tickets for the party and 300 for dinner will be sold for this exclusive event. 1685 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-672-2000.
Discovery Cruise Line: Cruise on the high seas. Take a voyage to nowhere aboard this ship, where there will be plenty to keep you busy, including dancing and live shows. Bring some extra cash and try your luck in the Las Vegas-style casino. Passengers are also treated to a superb seven-course dinner. Prices start at $149 per person for first seating, $169 for the second. Ship departs Port Everglades at 7 p.m. and returns at 3 a.m. For more information visit www.discoverycruiseline.com or call 800-93-SHIPS.
Doral Golf Resort & Spa: The world-famous Doral Resort offers a fine celebration this New Years way out west, far from the riffraff. A four-course meal including champagne in the Grand Ballroom where you and a lovely someone can dance all night, or at least part of it anyway. The shindig ends at 1 a.m. Call for information. 4400 NW 87th Ave, 888-993-0725.
Fontainebleau Hilton: Step into the gigantic Fontaine and Fleur de Lis Ballroom for a huge extravaganza. Arrive in time for the 8:30 p.m. dinner featuring a duet of filet mignon and South African lobster. Grab your party favors and complimentary champagne toast and listen to live bands perform todays hits and yesterdays classics until 2 a.m. For reservations call 305-538-2000, ext. 3555. 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-672-7469.
The Four Seasons: Celebrate at Four Seasons Hotel Miami Acqua. The signature restaurant at the new Four Seasons Hotel Miami will offer fixed-menu dinners to fit different schedules and party modes. Those looking for an early night will choose the three-course menu with seatings at 5:30 and 6 p.m. for $65 per person. A five-course menu, which includes a bottle of Louis Roederer NV champagne, will be served starting at 8:30 p.m. A live trio will perform during the evening and party favors will be available. The meal is priced at $175 and prepaid reservations are required. 1001 Brickell Bay Dr, 305-358-3535.
The Hilton Miami: Open bars, deluxe party favors, champagne toast, chef-attended Mexican and Italian food stations, and DJs playing an international mix of todays best dance music. Enough said! Cost is $85 per person. 5101 Blue Lagoon Dr.
Hotel Inter-Continental: Watch the Big Orange drop from the top of downtown Miamis signature hotel at this years blast. Indulge in great food and dance to the sizzling sounds of Juniors Miami Band, a 13-piece orchestra. Cost is $150 for adults and includes an open bar. Or dine on a luscious buffet of sensational dishes at Indigo. Listen to the latest hits played by the DJ. At the end of the night take home Indigos famous cookies. 100 Chopin Plaza, 305-577-1000.
Majesty Casino Cruises: Take a chance at craps, or maybe pokers your game. In any case, if youre feeling lucky then Majesty Casino Cruises will help you ring in the New Year Las Vegas style. Call 305-532-2111 for reservations.
National Hotel: Enjoy an enchanting New Years Eve dinner inside this gorgeous hotel at Café Mosaic. The first seating starts at 7 p.m. and offers a five-course dinner of seductive aphrodisiac delights overlooking the sparkling pool. Step out to the beach at midnight for the spectacular fireworks display. Australian sensation Jeremy will also be providing musical entertainment for the evening. Party continues until 1 a.m. For information call 305-423-7211. 1667 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-532-2311.
The Ritz-Carlton, Coconut Grove: Miamis newest Five Diamond luxury hotel presents a festive five-course New Years dinner by renowned chef Willis Loughhead. First seating is $175 per person, second seating is $225. 3300 SW 27th Ave, Coconut Grove.
Sheraton Biscayne Bay Hotel: This hotel along the bay makes an ideal location to party, and party you will, with a premium open bar from 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m., a full sit-down dinner, music by DJ Carlos Martin, and a perfect view of the Bayside fireworks. Cost is $85 per person. For information call 305-761-3663. 495 Brickell Ave, Miami.
The Shore Club: The Shore Club Hotels New Years bash at its ultrachic poolside club, Skybar, begins at 10 p.m. and offers dancing and open bar (to include Turi vodka, Bacardi, Perrier Jouét champagne) and will feature DJs Jus Ske, Ruckus, Tom Laroc, and Brooke Grabow. Hosted by Danny A and Elon. Admission is $250. 1901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-358-1999.
Sonesta Beach Resort: Multiple parties are available at this beachside resort. At the Purple Dolphin Restaurant enjoy an early seating between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. for a sumptuous seafood buffet. Cost is $45 for adults and $22 for children. The second seating is from 9:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. and features a seafood extravaganza. Cost is $98 for adults and $40 for children. A three-piece jazz band will also be performing throughout the night. Or step into the plush ballroom for a Brazilian Carnaval celebration. Dine on a four-course gourmet dinner while enjoying a premium open bar. The sounds of a twelve-piece band and Samba will provide listening pleasure during your meal. Cost is $185 for adults and $75 for children. For the over-21 crowd another party is available. A $20 cover charge will get you into the Desires Lounge for a night of dancing to a five-piece band and DJ. 350 Ocean Dr, Key Biscayne, 305-361-2021.
RESTAURANTS
7 Seas Bar and Lounge: If only every place had this kind of open-armed ambiance. Its New Years special involves $75 bottles of Bacardi, Ketel One, and Johnnie Walker Black. Join them for a complimentary dinner and champagne toast. 2200 SW 57th Ave, 305-266-6071.
B.E.D.: The hippest restaurant in South Beach offers up a Black and White Lavish Soirée. Theres only one seating at 9 p.m. so be there on time. A champagne reception starts things off followed by a lavish five-course meal. Afterward enjoy a bottomless glass of champagne and party to the best in house music. The entire night costs $299 per person. 929 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-532-9070.
Baleen: Come to Baleen in the Grove for New Years where two seatings will be offered. The first seating will be $95 per person and the second seating, which will feature live jazz by Nick Orta, will be $159 per person. A champagne toast at midnight kicks off the New Year. 4 Grove Isle Dr, Coconut Grove, 305-858-8300.
Bistro Zinc: For a great party atmosphere without big party prices head north to this restaurant. Two dinner seatings will be available. The early one costs $49.99 per person. The second seating starts at 9:00 p.m. and includes a four-course dinner for $70.99. Choice of entrees includes tuna, sea bass, filet mignon, lamb, and veal. Live music and a DJ will also be on hand (and foot). 17901 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, 305-935-2202.
Bruschetta & Co.: Bring your appetite to this restaurant for New Years Eve. It will be offering a special gala dinner menu, which consists of seven courses plus champagne. Also enjoy contemporary Latin and American tunes played by a DJ. 10650 NW 41st St, 305-470-8003.
Cafe Avanti: A wonderful evening is in store for anybody smart enough to celebrate New Years at this charming cafe. Call for details. 732 41st St, Miami Beach, 305-538-4400.
Cafe Ibiza: Enjoy live jazz in a festive Spanish atmosphere at the Village of Merrick Parks most fashionable restaurant. Village of Merrick Park, Main Level, Coral Gables, 305-793-8808.
The Capital Grille: This classy restaurant features top-quality steak on its special New Years Eve menu. Choose from various appetizers, salads, side dishes, and desserts. In addition there is live music in the lounge, and party favors will be handed out before midnight. Call for prices. 444 Brickell Ave, 305-374-4500.
Chef Allens: This is the one New Years event that could make you a millionaire. Thats right, theyll have a drawing at each of their two seatings for a million bucks. But if you dont win, at least youll have a ball. DJ Ran Henry will be spinning the high notes and there will be party favors galore. First seating begins at 6 p.m. and costs $90 per person; second seating begins at 9 p.m. for $150 per person (but that includes a slamming cocktail party). 19088 NE 29th Ave, Aventura, 305-935-2900.
China Grill: This upscale restaurant features a four-course dinner and a bottle of Laurent Perrier Brut L.P. champagne per couple. A full variety band and DJ will be on hand to provide entertainment. There will also be party favors and raffles for gift giveaways. The first dinner seating starts at 9 p.m. Call for reservations. 404 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-534-2211.
Crystal Café: Come enjoy this restaurants romantic ambiance this New Years. There will be three seatings at 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and 9 p.m. Dinner will be five courses including a bottle of champagne or bottle of wine, and party favors. 726 41st St, Miami Beach, 305-673-8266.
Dvine Lounge: Enjoy party favors and champagne toast in this upscale South Beach lounge. 910 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-534-1414.
Doraku: Enjoy fine dining this New Years at Doraku. The sushi dinner includes a tasting of four premium sakes. 1104 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, 305-695-8383.
Escopazzo: For New Years Eve Escopazzo is offering a five-course degustation menu, with a complimentary glass of Prosecco, for $125 per person. 1311 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-674-9450.
The Forge: Enjoy a glamorous New Years Eve at one of South Beachs most exclusive spots. First seating includes a three-course gourmet menu for $85 per person. The second seating features a four-course gourmet menu at $275 per person which includes a bottle of Moét & Chandon per couple. 432 41st St, Miami Beach, 305-604-9798.
Fritz and Franz Bierhaus: The wonderful people at Fritz and Franz want everybody to have an affordable New Years Eve and not have to go home with a mortgage. So theyre offering a no-cover night with a regular price menu, with the addition of a $17.99 prime rib special, a DJ spinning everything, and of course, their usual wide-ranging imported beer selection. 60 Merrick Way, Coral Gables, 305-774-1883.
German American Social Club: German vocalist Anne Ledig sings in the New Year along with music provided by the club. For just $30 per person, admission includes a sumptuous buffet, champagne, and party favors. 11919 Miller Rd, 305-552-5123.
Gils Café: Experience the best North Beach has to offer at this Brazilian restaurant on New Years. The festival-style celebration begins at 8:00 p.m. and dinner is served until midnight. Dance to the rhythms of live entertainment playing Latin, Brazilian, and American tunes until 2:00 a.m. Cost is $70 per person and $120 per couple. 216 71st St, Miami Beach, 305-867-0779.
Hoeflinger & Chiarini Cafe: Celebrate Brazilian style, with live music, a champagne toast, and party favors. Call for prices. 1777 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, 305-857-3456.
Jakes Bar and Grill: Celebrate New Years at this Coral Gables bar and grill to the tunes of live jazz and a televised Times Square countdown. Call for more information. Jakes Bar & Grill, 6901 Red Rd, 305-662-8632.
JohnMartins: Let the piper pipe in the New Years Eve at this Irish pub. There will be a buffet extravaganza from 7 until 11 p.m., featuring a staggering list of good things to eat and drink. There will be a pasta station with every conceivable sauce, from Alfredo to Bolognese; cold plates of smoked salmon and homemade paté, and gorgeous fruit platters; hot entrees will include beef Wellington, honey-glazed salmon fillet, duck a lorange, corned beef and cabbage, lamb stew, and spinach and goat-cheese-stuffed chicken breast. Desserts will include homemade holiday pudding, Irish sherry trifle, tiramisu, carrot cake, chocolate cake, and various chiffon pies. There will also be live music and a bagpiper from midnight on. Admission for adults is $49.50. 253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 305-445-3777.
Joia: Kick off your New Years Eve celebration with a sumptuous dinner at this upscale and hip eatery. Early seatings are 7 p.m. $95 preset menu; call for reservations. 150 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, 305-674-8871.
Les Deux Fontaines: Enjoy an a la carte menu and a live swing band at this wonderful oceanfront restaurant. No cover charge. 1230 Ocean Dr (Hotel Ocean), Miami Beach, 305-672-2579.
Macarena Restaurant: For New Years Eve this Spanish restaurant offers a five-course meal and choice of wine or champagne per couple. Two seatings will be available. The first is at 7 p.m. and costs $70 per person. The second is at 9:30 p.m. and costs $130. Skip dinner and pay $30 at the door and enjoy the rhythms of a DJ and percussionist till 5 a.m. 1334 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-531-3440.
Marks South Beach: An elegant dinner is guaranteed at this upscale restaurant inside the Nash Hotel. Diners may choose from three dinner options. The first is an a la carte seating between 7 and 7:30 p.m. with a two-hour limit. Those wanting to stick around after their meal will be guided to the lounge, where they will be provided with a champagne toast and party favors. The second option is to dine at 9:30 p.m. A multicourse meal is served with a complimentary champagne toast. Call for prices and reservations. 1120 Collins Ave (Hotel Nash), Miami Beach, 305-604-9050.
Martinis Bistro Bar: This South Dade favorite offers three seatings for New Years Eve. Cost of the third seating is $75 and includes party favors. 17850 W Dixie Hwy, 305-931-0262.
Miami City Club: Celebrate New Years in style with a breathtaking view atop the 55th-floor Miami City Club. A bubbly reception, four-course dinner including a bottle of Laurent Perrier Brut NV Champagne, and party favors will be only $99 per person. 200 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 305-373-2600.
Moroccan Nights: Enjoy the sensuous gyrations of professional belly dancers all night long this New Years. Call for information. 9555 Harding Ave, Surfside, 305-865-5333.
Mykonos: The finest restaurant in old Coral Way livens up its atmosphere for New Years. Call for details. 1201 Coral Way, 305-856-3140.
Oasis Lounge: Enjoy live music and sultry belly dancing at this elegant restaurant/lounge. First seating is $75 per person, and second seating is $175 per person. The party goes on till dawn. 840 1st St, Miami Beach, 305-673-2252.
Pearl Champagne Lounge: An exquisite dinner prepared by Pearls acclaimed chef Frank Jeanetti is guaranteed at this South Beach restaurant. A bottle of Louis Roederer Cristal champagne will accompany your meal. Throughout the night there will be live interactive entertainment and sensational music by a renowned DJ. Dont be late for the 9 p.m. seating. Its the only one there is. Tickets cost $350 per person. 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, 305-538-1111.
Peppys In The Gables: Founding chef Domenic is best known for his sauces that tantalize the taste buds. For New Years Eve dine at this restaurant, which offers a romantic garden setting for your northern Italian meal. Peppys will offer a limited regular menu with special selections from the chefs spectacular repertoire. Live music and a midnight champagne toast are sure to bring more pleasure to your evening. 216 Palermo Ave, Coral Gables, 305-448-1240.
Pescado: Enjoy fine dining this New Years at Pescado. There will be two dinner seatings, 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., with a menu includeing the finest seafood. Cost is $80 per person. 320 San Lorenzo Ave, Village of Merrick Park, Coral Gables, 305-443-3474.
Pizza Libre: Have a pizza party for New Years at the best pizzeria on planet Earth. Call for details. 607 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-673-5300.
Renaissance At The Gables: The New Years gala dinner party features a delicious French-style full-course dinner and an unlimited premium bar. Music by a superb international orchestra and professional DJ will keep everyone dancing till the next year. Cost is $90 per person. 2340 SW 32nd Ave, 305-445-1313.
SushiSamba Dromo: This Lincoln Road restaurant boasts the finest Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian food. An a la carte menu is available for a minimum of $50 per person. After that a prix fixe menu takes over for $90 per person. Enjoy an excellent dinner accompanied by a champagne toast at midnight. Samba dancers will be grooving to the Brazilian and Latin beats. 600 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, 305-673-5337.
Talula: Enjoy an elegant New Years Eve at this South Beach favorite. Call for information. 210 23rd St, Miami Beach, 305-672-0778.
Tapas and Tintos: Grab the bull by the horns and head to Tapas and Tintos. The toro aspect will be kicking in high gear for a Spanish-style fiesta. Admission is $100 per person. 448 Española Way, Miami Beach, 305-538-8272.
Two Sisters: Ring in the New Years at this Coral Gables favorite in the Hyatt Regency Hotel. For $99 per person, Two Sisters offers a full buffet, complimentary champagne, and party favors. For $125 per person, you can have the Two Sisters experience, then party the rest of the night away at Alcazaba. 50 Alhambra Plaza, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Coral Gables, 305-441-1234.
Wish: Close your eyes, make a wish, and maybe youll end up at this Todd Oldham-designed restaurant housed within The Hotel for New Years Eve. Two dinner seatings will be offered. The first is an a la carte seating at 7 p.m., and the second is a five-course prix fixe dinner at 9 p.m. Dishes on the later dinner include cachaca-spiked tuna, marinated rack of lamb, and timbale of house-smoked salmon. After 10 p.m. diners will be invited to adjourn to the hotels rooftop pool area for a special party to usher in the New Year, featuring music, cocktails, and an outstanding view of the fireworks over the ocean. Cost of the prix fixe dinner is $175 per person. 801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305-674-9474.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Bayfront Park: Its time to ring in the New Year and the place to be is downtown Miamis Bayfront Park. With over 30 acres of fun, this is the largest free party in South Florida! Head south to Bayfront Park Amphitheater for a concert starting at 8 p.m. Downtowns Holiday Village is open from 5 p.m.-midnight and admission is free. Finally, count down to midnight with the Big Orange. This New Years Eve icon will slowly ascend the side of The Hotel Inter-Continental, reaching the top at midnight in conjunction with a grand display of fireworks. Headlining the concert at Bayfront Park Amphitheater are Miamis hometown boys the Mavericks, plus Yerba Buena and Betty Padgett & Elements of Funk. 301 Biscayne Blvd, 305-358-7550.
Ice Palace Studios: An all-ages concert with performances by Particle and DJ Spooky might be the thing to send you into the New Year on a high, musical note. Tickets are $32. For more info call 305-358-5885. 59 NW 14th St.
Junior Orange Bowl Parade: Now that the Orange Bowl Parade no longer struts down Biscayne Boulevard on the New Year, the Junior Orange Bowl Parade is the biggest one in town this holiday season. It strolls down the streets of Coral Gables on New Years Eve with major floats and marching bands from local high schools. The parade, now in its 55th year, celebrates youth and is a perfect family outing if you dont want to take your kids out to a bumping South Beach party. And theres no admission, so you can bring the little rascals and their friends. For information call the Junior Orange Bowl office at 305-662-1210.
The SKIN Masquerade Ball: New Years Eve is an erotically charged night indeed, so why not go the sensual route this year at a very special SKIN party? Rather than fight the crowds in South Beach, they have secured a large and beautiful house right on the water for this all-night affair. This event will be fully catered, with an open bar all night long. But invitation only. For info call 888-908-skin or e-mail [email protected].
Vizcaya Museum And Gardens: Start your New Year at one of the most gorgeous landmarks in Miami. Feel the ambiance of the beautiful grounds while dancing under the stars to the sultry music. Included is an open bar and light hors doeuvres. To make this black-tie-optional gala even more memorable, there will be a spectacular fireworks display at the stroke of midnight. Party starts at 9 p.m. and continues until 2 a.m. Tickets cost $150 per person. Call 305-856-4866 for ticket information. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 S Miami Ave, 305-250-9133.
