I’m back and back in the saddle after a week in California for the holidays. While it’s always good to get away, it’s even better to be back home, which is not only where the heart is, but where Tuesday night you can toast the end of 2013 and the beginning of 2014 at some of the area’s coolest restaurants.
For example, at Mizner Park’s swanky Jazziz Nightlife (201 Plaza Real, 561/300-0730), they’ll be offering several options for the celebration-minded. Dinner seatings at 7 and 10 p.m. will feature a five-course meal from chef Justin Flit, with everything from bay scallop ceviche to a meaty duo of New York strip and braised short rib. A glass of champagne, party favors and live entertainment are part of the package too, which clocks in at $150 per person for the early seating and $175 for the second seating. If you just want to enjoy the show and champagne, admission is $50 per person.
At Max’s Grille (404 Plaza Real, 561/368-0080) the word is “white.” As in White Party. Wear all white—after all, this is South Florida—and you’ll get a free champagne toast at midnight. Dennis Max’s venerable Boca eatery will be dishing up a three-course $45 prix fixe menu with such delectables as crab-stuffed zucchini blossoms and Akaushi filet mignon with Bordelaise sauce. There will be $8 Stoli drinks and a DJ too.
Boca’s posh palace of carnivorous cuisine, Red Steakhouse (1901 N. Military Trail, 561/353-9139) is putting on a lavish spread, featuring three-courses from chef Peter Vauthy. For $99 per person or $139 with wine pairings you can dig into a trio of nifty little canapes, plus your choice from a list of special apps, entrees and desserts. Or order off the regular menu. IMHO, Red has the best steaks in town. Make rezzies from 4 p.m. to midnight, and expect live jazz and party favors to add to the celebrating.
Three courses, two seatings and one good time are what’s happening at RacksDowntown Eatery & Tavern (402 Plaza Real, 561/395-1662) in Boca Raton. The first seating is from 5 to 7 p.m., the second begins promptly at 9 p.m. The $110 prix fixe menu includes courses like iced Kumamoto oysters and double lobster bisque, crab-crusted sea bass and grilled branzino, and molten chocolate cake and creme brulee. There’s also a free glass of prosecco at midnight.
