We have some hefty issues to face in the next year, like, oh, who our next president’s going to be. So tonight let it all hang out. You know half the city will be hurting tomorrow, and with so many venues vying for your attention, it’s easy to see why. Here’s our guide to the city’s best New Year’s Eve parties. Happy 2008!
Alden
1117 Prairie
832-200-8800
The acclaimed restaurant is offering an indulgent, five-course dinner for two. After your belly is full, party on the veranda, then slumber in style. Special packages available.
Backstreet Cafe
1103 S. Shepherd, 713-521-2239
If you’re feeling more adult then kid tonight, then you’ll enjoy the fireplace seating, live jazz and four-course feast at this cozy and low-key celebration. $69 per person, including a midnight champagne toast. Seating starts at 5:30 p.m.
Baker St. Pub & Grill
5510 Morningside, Suite 100
713-942-9900
www.sherlockspubco.com/Home.asp
For an easy night of celebrating, hop over to the Village and enjoy no cover, live music, free party favors, a midnight balloon drop and a champagne toast.
The Balinese Room
2107 Seawall Blvd., Galveston
409-762-9696
Take a step back to the 1940s with all this historic building has to offer in glam and kitsch. Piano-pounding boogaloo queen Eden Brent headlines this New Year’s party. Entry is $35 and includes buffet, party favors and a midnight toast. Doors open at 7 p.m.
benjy’s Restaurant
2424 Dunstan Rd., 713-522-7602
This hip restaurant in the Village will offer a hearty three-course menu. Be prepared for a tough choice between tasty entrées like corn-crusted sea bass, crunchy nut-laced chicken or wild mushroom crepes. A champagne toast rounds off the night at midnight. $69 per person.
Big Easy Social & Pleasure Club
5731 Kirby, 713-523-9999
Tonight this club we’ve voted our “Best Blues Venue” for more than a decade will host legendary Austin blues guitarist Alan Haynes and his band. $10. 9 p.m.
Bourbon Street Sports Bar
803 S. Mason, Suite 400, 281-398-2424
www.bourbonstreetsportsbar.com
Soul Junkies will entertain you for the last few hours of 2007. At midnight, there will be a champagne toast and party favors.
Buddha Lounge
2670 Sage, 713-304-3265
www.rockstarsentertainment.com
Tonight enjoy a four-hour premium open bar, four-course Mi Luna Tapas selection and Godiva-covered strawberries. Hang around until midnight for the Veuve Clicquot champagne toast and video countdown with confetti storm.
The Children’s Museum Houston
1500 Binz St., 713-522-1138
Let the kids celebrate the New Year, but still go to bed on time. Design your own float and take part in the parade, then count down the New Year at noon. Live music by the New Birth Brass Band. $5.
Crú A Wine Bar
9595 Six Pines Dr., Suite 650
The Woodlands, 281-465-9463
Crú will ring in the New Year with food and wine, noisemakers, dancing and music. Choose a 5 p.m. seating for $50 per person, or dine at 8 p.m. and stay till late for $75 per person, including champagne during the first seconds of 2008.
The Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Hotel
909 Texas, 713-227-7423
This Crystal Ball is sure to tinkle. Lavish, dramatic and rich in history, this 11,000-square-foot ballroom will have five premium bars, one DJ in the Empire Room and live music from the Shapeshifters in the ballroom.
Cypress Saloon
12710 Telge Rd., Cypress, 281-304-7766
The McClanahans will help Cypress Saloon ring in the New Year. $12 cover includes snacks, party favors and complimentary champagne toast.
Deco
510 Gray, 713-659-4900
This hip, unpretentious Midtown lounge is making it easy tonight with an all-inclusive party. Pay one fee that includes entry, food, open bar, music, dancing, champagne toast, strawberries and party favors. And don’t forget entertainment with live magicians and go-go dancers. There’s a reason this party sells out. $115.
Doubletree Downtown
400 Dallas, 713-759-0202
If drinking and eating aren’t enough entertainment for you, then check out Keith & Margo’s Murder Mystery Midnight Madness. Dress up for the occasion and enjoy dancing between mysteries. 8:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Downtown Aquarium
410 Bagby, 713-223-3474
Take the kids here tonight to get them all tuckered out for the babysitter. Watch Sharkey’s New Year’s Eve ball drop while you eat and dance. $15.99 per adult; $9.99 per kid. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Firkin & Phoenix
1915 Westheimer, 713-526-3100
For its Phantom of the Phoenix party, this pub is boasting three countdowns tonight at 11 p.m., midnight and 1 a.m. That’s three tries to hook up with that hottie. Prizes will be given throughout the night, but you must have a mask to win.
Fitzgerald’s
2706 White Oak, 713-862-3838
Remember years past with the Pink Floyd tribute show Us and Them. $10 general admission; $15 balcony with champagne toast and party favors at midnight. 8 p.m.
Flying Saucer
705 Main (at Capitol), 713-228-PINT
This downtown bar hosts live music from Roblicious and the Grau so Loud Band. Free champagne toast at midnight, fun pictures, party favors and raffle prizes. Cover is $10 at the door; reservations are $15 per seat.
Four Seasons
1300 Lamar, 713-650-1300
The always swanky hotel will be offering an early four-course seating at 5 p.m., with a second seven-course meal at 8:30 p.m. to ring in the new year. Along with the tasty food will be live music, dancing and champagne toast at midnight.
Gravitas
807 Taft, 713-522-0995
The speakeasy-themed party will feature live music and a delectable three-course menu featuring your choice of prime rib, lemon sole or crispy braised pork. Tickets are $85 each.
Hard Rock Café
502 Texas, 713-227-1392
Living up to its name, these guys will rock in the New Year with a live performance by Vital. Packages include everything you could imagine — open bar, food and party favors. 9 p.m.
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
800 Bagby, 713-315-2525
Grab your leisure suit and take a step back to the ’70s during this Disco Inferno. Cordua Catering will provide fab food, and Infinite Groove will bring the funky beats. $150 per person. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Hotel Derek
2525 W. Loop S., 713-961-3000
Extravagant is the only way to describe a New Year’s celebration that includes a helicopter ride for two at midnight. They even include the dinner and overnight accommodations in this package. More conservative packages are also available and include champagne, strawberries and next-day brunch.
Hotel Icon
220 Main, 713-224-4266
Tonight this hotel has many packages to choose from. Spoil yourself rotten in the last moments of 2007 with the Iconic package, which includes a five-course dinner, live entertainment, drinks and a night spent in luxury.
Houston Marriott Westchase
2900 Briarpark Dr., 713-978-7400
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/houwm-houston-marriott-westchase
Unmask the Eve is a masquerade-themed night of high-class entertainment. Special events include performances by Tabla Girl Tina Sugandh and DJ Rocky Rhodes. 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Hotel Zaza
5701 Main, 713-526-1991
Experience one of Houston’s newest and hottest hotels for New Year’s Eve. DJ Hardware will be keeping the beat; party favors and a champagne toast will round out the night. You can fly up to heaven at the Monarch Terrace or go straight to hell in the Monarch Lounge.
Hugo’s
1600 Westheimer, 713-524-7744
You know one of the best restaurants in town is going to have a killer menu tonight. Highlights include an avocado and mango salad, lobster tacos, scallops, beef tenderloin, rack of lamb and a coconut tart. There will be live music by Viento and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. $69 per person.
Hyatt Regency
1200 Louisiana, 713-654-1234
This four-floor party is one of the oldest, because they know how to do things right. A balloon drop and prime rib buffet are only two of the highlights. Fried Ice Cream will entertain with pop and rock music; Mary’s Band will steam up the evening with Latin music; and DJ 33 1/3 will be in the lobby. Tickets available (without a room) for $79 per person.
Improv Comedy Showcase and Restaurant
7620 Katy Fwy., 713-333-8800
If you feel like laughing at someone and not getting beaten up for it, then check out Alonzo Bodden. He’s a veteran comedian who’s most recently been seen on NBC’s Last Comic Standing. He performs tonight at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets to the late show will include admission, appetizer and champagne toast.
Indika
516 Westheimer, 713-524-2170
This modern Indian food restaurant wows food critics from coast to coast, including our own Robb Walsh. Tonight Anita Jaisinghani creates a six-course dinner with champagne and live music. 6:30 p.m. seating, $60; 9 p.m seating, $95.
Laff Spot
17776 Tomball Pkwy., 281-955-9200
Let yourself be entertained with food, music and laughter. After eating, jazz will be played by The Stellar Unit. Then laugh with ventriloquist team Willie Tyler & Lester, Ronnie Kenny and Andy Huggins. 7:30 p.m.
Mak Chin’s
1511 Shepherd, 713-861-9888
Wear your best Chinese costumes at this Shanghai 1930s-themed party. A four-course menu will be offered with drink specials, DJ and live music.
Max’s Wine Dive
4720 Washington #B, 713-880-8737
People don’t come here just for the wine; they come for the active singles scene. And tonight will be no different. For Max’s rockin’ New Year’s Eve dinner, choose from three seatings. Reservations required. 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
McGonigel’s Mucky Duck
2425 Norfolk, 713-528-5999
Come early and enjoy the four-course dinner, or come later to listen to the sounds of Austin’s Jimmy LaFave. His unique instrument and startling range are sure to get you emotional. Limited seating. Dinner at 7 p.m.
Mockingbird Bistro
1985 Welch, 713-533-0215
End your year on a high note dining in what we consider Houston’s “Best Bistro.” Tonight Chef John Sheely has prepared a six-course tasting paired with incredible wines.
Moody Gardens Hotel
7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, 409-741-8484
This black-tie celebration includes a concert by Eddie Money and show band Eclipse, plus a lavish food station, open bar, champagne toast and deluxe party favors. 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
My Bar
5406 Hwy. 6 N., 281-550-8755
Victim will keep this party going with great music. At midnight, indulge in champagne toast and party favors.
Numbers
300 Westheimer, 713-526-6551
These guys have been around so long, they really know how to throw a party. Along with dancing and drinking, they’ll have a $2008 cash balloon drop.
The Oceanaire Seafood Room
5061 Westheimer, Suite 8050
832-487-8862
As their name suggests, tonight you’ll have lots of seafood to choose from, such as stuffed Texas Gulf flounder, Hawaiian yellow fin tuna and 24-ounce Australian lobster tail.
Rainbow Lodge
2011 Ella Blvd., 713-861-8666
Celebrate the end of 2007 at this picturesque spot. Seatings are at 5:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., with free champagne and a midnight celebration in the Tied Fly Bar.
Ramada Plaza Hotel
7611 Katy Fwy., 713-688-2222
Only $99 per person will get you an all-inclusive party without ever stepping foot in your car. There will be an open bar, lavish dinner buffet and a choice of party rooms.
Rich’s
2401 San Jacinto,713-759-9606
This hot spot has been blowing minds for more than two decades, and tonight will be no different. The Glitterball 2008 is guaranteed to be a big party with a styling crowd. For pre-sale tickets and bottle service/table packages, look online.
Rouge
812 Westheimer, 713-520-7955
If you feel like getting dressed up tonight, then head over to this black-tie dinner. After eating, enjoy music by the Reflex in the Grand Ballroom upstairs. $100 per person.
Sambuca
909 Texas, 713-224-5299
Tonight enjoy live music by Mark Dini while indulging in a three- or four-course dinner. 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. seatings.
Sam Houston Race Park
7575 N. Sam Houston Pkwy.
281-807-8700
This racetrack is joining in the celebration with its inaugural Zoom and Boom Celebration. Enjoy a night of thoroughbred racing, live music and one of the largest firework displays in all of Houston. Ticket packages include reserved seating for racing, a racing program, buffet dinner, party favors and more.
Scene Lounge
1601 Commerce,
832-896-6649
For a stylish New Year’s Eve, reserve a table at this downtown see-and-be-seen nightclub with a pearl mosaic bar, massive top-shelf liquor menu and VIP bottle service.
Sherlock’s Baker St. Pub
1997-A W. Gray, 713-521-1881
$5 advance purchase tickets get you live music plus free party favors and a midnight champagne toast and balloon drop. Tickets available at the door for $8.
Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops
1600 Lamar, 713-577-8325
www.spencersforsteaksandchops.com
Aside from their normal menu, there will be special offerings including a ten-ounce USDA prime bone-in filet mignon with Peruvian new potatoes and an ancho chile glaze.
St. Regis Houston
1919 Briar Oaks Ln., 713-840-7600
Big band music and a champagne toast help set the mood for 2008. Party-only tickets are $45 per person, though a five-course dinner is also available for $175 each.
Stafford Centre
10505 Cash Rd., Stafford, 281-208-6900
The city of Stafford rings in the New Year with its third annual celebration. This year’s party features local band The Fab 5. As always, there will be party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Catering this year will be provided by Churrasco’s Restaurant. $75 per person.
Star Fleet Entertainment Yachts
280 Grove Rd., Kemah, 281-334-4692
On a yacht, you’ll have another excuse for throwing up besides alcohol. $99 per person gets you an open bar, front-row seat for the fireworks, plus buffet, DJ dancing and party favors. Board at 9 p.m. and return to dock at 12:30 a.m.
Status
2404 San Jacinto, 713-659-5400
Miami will be celebrated at this Midtown party with $1 you-call-its and $100 bottles all night. $50 general admission.
Strip House
1200 McKinney, Suite 106, 713-659-6000
Ring in the New Year with mouthwatering specials such as Jonah Florida crab claws, a 14-ounce bone-in prime filet mignon, prime rib with horseradish popovers and broiled or steamed four-pound lobster with drawn butter. Finish off 2007 with bananas Foster with vanilla ice cream and rum.
The Tasting Room
1101-18 Uptown Park Blvd., 713-622-4477
You’ve been good all year long, and now it’s time to be naughty. Get introduced to the naughty wine crew while listening to David Wrangler spinning. $88 per person. 7 p.m. to midnight.
Theatre Southwest
8944 Clarkcrest, 713-661-9505
Enjoy a special performance of the mystery Veronica’s Room, then stay until next year. This gala will have a full buffet, noisemakers and all the other requirements for a festive evening. $50 per person; $95 per couple.
Tommy’s Seafood Steakhouse
11660 Westheimer, 281-679-1112
Enjoy a New Orleans-style celebration with Matt Lemmler, Erin Wright and Daleton Lee, featuring vocalist Diane Landry.
Toyota Center
1510 Polk, 1-866-4HOUTIX
Hang with the family tonight and be entertained as the Houston Rockets take on the Golden State Warriors. First 5,000 fans receive Rockets crazy wigs. 6 p.m.
Vargo’s Restaurant
2401 Fondren, 713-782-3888
After enjoying this special four-course menu, head out to stroll in the nine wooded acres. Seatings from 5 p.m. $65 per person.
The Venecian
414 N. Sam Houston Pkwy., 212-843-2400
Start your night out with some serious comedy with the Gangsta of Comedy, Capone. The 97-cent drinks should help you laugh a little harder. Stay for the after-party with a 5K balloon drop, swag bags for ladies and super hot DJs to keep the night going. Strict dress code, dress to impress. 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Venue
719 Main, 713-236-8150
With a light show, dancers and DJ Yaxkin, you’re sure to be entertained.
Verizon Wireless Theater
520 Texas, 713-629-3700
www.verizonwirelesstheater.com
D.L. Hughley, a member of The Original Kings of Comedy, will be busting guts all night. $65.50. 8 p.m.
Vino 100
11693 Westheimer, Suite 140
281-759-4100
Get ready to bubble all night with wine specials, appetizers, party favors and a midnight toast. Guillermo Serpa will provide live music. $25 to $30 per person. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Vintage Pub
13245 Jones Rd., 281-469-9555
This gold and glam theme is sure to sparkle with live music from the Jason Cassidy Band and raffle drawings every 30 minutes for cash and prizes.
Vogue Lounge
2800 Sage, 713-530-6339
Tonight this downtown hot spot is pulling out all their bags of tricks. Along with aerial performances and dazzling fire displays, they’ll have great drink specials, a large balloon drop, a champagne toast and $20,000 in prices. 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Warehouse Live
813 St. Emanuel, 713-629-3700
and
Lucky’s Pub
801 St. Emanuel, 713-522-2010
Clubmonkey is notorious for their rowdy parties, and this celebration will be no exception. BLT (Black Tie, Lingerie & Toga) IV will have live bands on one end, and DJs, dancing and plenty of drinks in between. $69 to $259. 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center
2301 N. Millbend Dr., The Woodlands
Hang out at this resort all night with dinner packages to the Glass Menagerie that include live music, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast.
XO Lounge
2611 San Jacinto, 713-651-9900
The Black & White New Year’s Eve Gala features DJ X-Ray and guest DJ David Cruz spinning the best of everything. Complimentary champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. $20.
Zilkha Hall
Hobby Center, 800 Bagby
If you’re feeling like leaving 2007 in class, then join Ars Lyrica as they present the Clandestine Classics, little-known masterworks by Bach and Handel. Join the musicians for a gala champagne reception and silent auction in the Hobby Center Founders’ Club after the performance. $15 to $50. 9 p.m.
Zula Restaurant
705 Main, 713-227-7052
These are the kinds of decisions you want to make the last night of the year. Grilled shrimp, crab cakes, masa-crusted quail, blue crab salad, Liberty Farms duck breast or Southern fried oysters?
This article appears in Dec 20-26, 2007.