New Year's Eve at Cercle Rouge

Do you have your New Year's Eve plans yet? Cercle Rouge is offering two New Year's options- one early and one late. The later option comes with Burlesque! What a way to say good bye to 2009! Here are some of the details:

On New Year’s Eve we will be offering two seatings with prix fixe menus. The first seating will include 3-courses for $49.95/person until 8pm. The second seating will include 4-courses and live entertainment (4-piece band and Burlesque Cabaret show) for $125/person; starting at 9pm. Options include Goat Cheese Crostini, Twice Baked Crab Soufflé, Roasted Rack of Lamb, Sautéed Sea Bass, Roasted Organic Capon, and more. A la carte dining options will be available until 8pm.

Don't forget, brunch will be served on New Year's Day!

Worth the Tassel: Burlesque at Duane Park

On Friday nights, the restaurant formerly known as Duane Park Cafe, now simply Duane Park, transforms into a 1920's-style Parisian salon. One can enjoy a late night dinner, live jazz and burlesque. Acts have included Darlinda, Legs Malone, Gal Friday, Perie Noire and the Brian Newman Jazz Trio has become the house band. Saturday and Sunday night shows will be offered soon, but only Friday night will remain free of charge.

The menu, executed by New Orleans native and Five Points alum, Beau Houch, blends classic bistro dishes (i.e. steak with caramelized onions) with provocative touches like Creole-spiced fries to dip into a garlicky aioli. The tightly edited wine list, courtesy of partner Frank Locker--the proprietor of East Village shop Is Wine--offers deep bargains; most bottles run $30 to $60.

Book early, tables fill up fast. (Duane Park, 157 Duane Street 212 732 5555)