Break out the sparkly cocktail attire, the glittering jewelry, and those extra high heels. New Year's Eve warrants a big-time celebration. On Sunday morning, December 21, I shared on Fox 35's Good Day details on where to have a ritzy, glitzy New Year's Eve in Orlando. Chefs of three top-tier restaurants were with me, each showing off one especially tempting dish that will be served.
New Year's Eve will be an all-out multi-hour, over-the-top event at Bull & Bear, a clubby steakhouse within the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. Guests will arrive at 7 p.m. for a nine-course (nine!) dinner, and that's not all. Participants will dance to live music, loosened up by unlimited Perrier-Jouët champagne. Before the party winds down at 1 a.m., revelers will view the resort's private fireworks display. Here's the menu. Chef de Cuisine Daniel Tederous will be sharing one dish to viewers on Sunday morning. Price: $250. 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln., Orlando, 407.597.5413
In the heart of Winter Park's bustling retail district, Luma on Park is a beacon of civility. It's modern decor and progressive American meals attract a sophisticated crowd throughout the year. On New Year's Eve, the menu will be a la carte, meaning diners can order as much or as little as they like. Still, the menu, already no slacker, will feature what the chefs call "luxury items" like caviar and foie gras. Pastry Chef Brian Cernell will join me on Sunday morning. You can read about him at the bottom of this link. 290 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.599.4111
A pioneer of Florida's so-called Mango Gang, Norman Van Aken brought New World Cuisine to the state, and, ten years ago, to Orlando. The celebrity chef continues to innovate at his suave restaurant, Norman's, a special occasion destination within the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. New Year's Eve celebrants can book a table for 5 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. At either time, they'll be offered a four-course prix fixe menu with plenty of options. Choose from either of two first places, three second courses, four entrees, and three desserts. Chef Andres Mendoza will show off his favorite on Sunday morning. Those guests still seated at midnight will receive a glass of bubbly. Price: $175 for adults, $75 for children. 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, 407.393.4333
Here's the menu.
If you're ready to celebrate in style, sign on for one heckuva ritzy, glitzy New Year's Eve.
Eat enthusiastically,
Rona