A Last-Minute New Year’s Eve Dining Out Guide
Before you make good on your resolution to wean yourself from Seamless, New Year’s Eve is your final opportunity to throw caution (and the contents of your checking account) to the wind. So from that first caviar hors d’ oeuvre to the culminating champagne toast, bit adieu to 2014 in opulent high style, at these decadent restaurant bacchanalias.
Pork Slope, et al: As per usual, the Talde team has planned themed New Year’s Eve blow-outs at all three of their Park Slope establishments. For $90-$125, you can order a special Omakase menu at their Asian fusion eatery, featuring Whipped Uni with jalapeno and toast, Lobster with fennel and citrus dashi, and Lucky 7 Pork with smoked maple miso, or a Boardwalk Empire-inspired spread at Thistle Hill Tavern, showcasing Prohibition tipples and 1920’s-era dishes, such as Seared Foie Gras with Taylor ham, Lamb with pears and bordelaise, and Pineapple Upside Down Cake with maraschino cherry gelato. Finally, swap your flapper outfit for flannels and close out the evening at Pork Slope’s gleefully grungy 90’s party, which will rage (against the machine) until 4am.
247 5th Avenue, Park Slope
The Elm: Considering The Elm’s high-end Tribeca aesthetic, $95 for four luxurious courses on New Year’s Eve (or $115 with wine pairings and a midnight toast) doesn’t seem all that exorbitant. Although if you really want to go for broke, you can shell out for the $60 black winter truffle supplement, to be shaved on top of dishes like Sunchoke Veloute with caviar, Squab with quince and kohlrabi, and Foie Gras with persimmons and cashew.
160 North 12th Street, Williamsburg
Char No. 4: Go ahead and spring for the whiskey pairings ($38) to go alongside this bourbon-centric restaurant’s three-course, $75 prix fixe, which includes Crispy Pork Belly with chestnuts and leeks, Smoked Beef Short Ribs with grits and brussels sprouts, and silky Chocolate Custard, flavored with bananas and caramel.
196 Smith Street, Cobble Hill
The Pines: $125 for a tasting menu doesn’t sound so startling (not on New Year’s Eve, anyway), when you break it down over eight courses, each featuring top of the line ingredients. Think Bay Scallop Crudo with apple and ginger, Warm Maine Lobster Salad with celery root, horseradish and preserved lemon, and Pennsylvania beef cheeks with sunchokes and smoked oyster sauce, as well as a champagne toast and surprise nibbles throughout the night, showcasing truffles and uni.
284 3rd Avenue, Gowanus
James: If you’ve scored tickets to see Elton John at the Barclay’s Center, the James is a solid spot to grab a holiday dinner pre ($85) or post ($95) show. Choose amongst options like Seared Scallops with bacon and meyer lemon, Cumin-Crusted Lion of Lamb with creamy farro and black kale, and Ricotta Cheesecake with dried cherries, pecans and caramel from the owner’s private dessert line, Cecil & Merl.
605 Carlton Avenue, Prospect Heights
The Vanderbilt: You won’t find a more reasonably priced NYE meal than the $65 three-course feast at The Vanderbilt (it only jumps to $95 for wine, beer and cocktail pairings)! Start with Shrimp and Lobster Meatballs bathed with yuzu and chili, followed by Roasted Duck Breast with cherry olive tapenade and citrus, and Absinthe Marshmallows paired with graham crackers and chocolate.
570 Vanderbilt Avenue, Prospect Heights
Brooklyn Winery: Drink up—$150 tickets to Brooklyn Winery’s annual “Eyes Wide Open Masquerade Ball” include a four-hour open bar (featuring specialty cocktails, premium liquor and beer, and their own borough-made vino, of course), as well as entertainment from an aerial performer, and a DJ spinning tunes until 1am.
213 North 8th Street, Williamsburg
The Fat Goose: If you’d just as soon avoid overpriced tastings and raucous parties completely, The Fat Goose in Williamsburg is actually offering their regular dinner menu. Enjoy a fuss-free meal comprised of a la carte options, such as Chicken Liver Mousse with cornbread and house jam, Hearts of Palm Salad with anchovies and marcona almonds, and Strip Steak with savoy cabbage and rosemary potatoes.
125 Wythe Avenue, Williamsburg