Restaurants, bars gear up for New Year’s Eve

Published 8:00 am Saturday, December 30, 2006

New Year’s Eve holds that mysterious aura of being the holiday that everyone feels compelled to celebrate.

But, its promise of a night of fabulous festivity is a pressure that many choose not to pursue, opting instead for a dreamy night on the sofa with loved ones, sipping champagne and marking the midnight hour with a sweet kiss.

Some are sleepy-eyed couples trying to keep their eyes open until midnight so they might partake in the televised dropping of the 1,070-pound, 6-foot-diameter Waterford crystal ball located high above New York City’s Times Square, starting at 23:59:00 and reaching the bottom of its tower at the stroke of midnight. Or they await the local spectacle of an elevator shooting to the top of the fireworks-soaked Space Needle. Alas, some never make it to the ever-elusive magical stroke of midnight.

There are those, however, who revel in the celebratory aspects of New Year’s Eve and plan their evening with care much like a hospital staff awaiting a newborn.

South enders have quite a few opportunities to make the evening memorable.

The Inn at Langley comes closest to a romantic affair offering two seatings with the second in formal attire.

Chef Matt Costello has dreamed up a prix fixe menu of seven courses, with wine pairing, dessert and champagne at midnight. The first seating is at 5 p.m. and the second at 9:30 p.m. Call 221-3033 for reservations or visit info@innatlangley.com.

The Beachfire Grill at Holmes Harbor is also offering a price fixed menu with four choices. The four-course meal includes dessert and champagne. Seating begins at 5 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m. with New Year’s Eve festivities continuing in the bar through midnight. The Beachfire Grill is located at 5023 Harbor Hills Dr. in Freeland. Call 331-2363 or visit www.holmesharbor.com for reservations and information.

If it’s a little rock n’ roll you desire to ring in 2007 go to the Dog House and join the dance party with SisterMonk. SisterMonk is well-known for their infectious blend of funk, groove, rock and soul. Joining them will be special guest James Hinkley on cello. The music starts at 10 p.m. $8 cover charge at the door.

Finally, Langley favorite Prima Bistro brings out its festive best with Danny Ward, jazz saxophonist, starting at 7 p.m. The regular dinner menu will be available starting at 5 p.m until 9 p.m. At 10:30 p.m. a special “small bites” and champagne menu will be available through midnight. Reservations are required. Prima Bistro is located on First Street in Langley. Call 221-4060 or primabistro@whidbey.com.