MANAYUNK

By Rachel Jenkins

♪ ♫ Maybe it’s much too early in the game, Ah but I thought I’d ask you just the same/What are ya doin’ New Year’s, New Year’s Eve? ♪ ♫

Ella Fitzgerald aside, we’d really like to know. As you’re probably aware, Manayunk is getting ready to dust off the champagne bottles to ring in 2017. (It isn’t called “The Place We Go To Drink” for nothing)! Here’s where you can find the best New Year’s Eve parties, from all-night blowouts to a classy evening of reminiscing. Come on down to celebrate the end of a long year and the start of a fresh new one, Manayunk-style!

Bourbon Blue

• Got a group coming? Bourbon Blue has options to plan your ideal night with Southern-inspired food and plenty of champagne. A live DJ will be keeping the hits coming all night long, with festive party favors for everyone! Choose from their Premium, Gold, or Silver Party Package for hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, and more.

Cactus Restaurant & Bar and Bayou Bar & Grill

• If you want to do New Year’s on a budget, Cactus and Bayou are teaming up for their “Passport Party” - a night of dancing and celebration for a great price. Your ticket gives you access to both bars, both DJs, and both dance floors until midnight! And of course, stick around for the champagne toast when the ball drops.

Gigi’s Italian Bistro

• For another classy dinner affair, Gigi’s has cooked up a special menu for New Year’s Eve. They are offering rich dishes like Shrimp Crab Alfredo over Spinach Fettuccine, Petit Filet Saltimbocca, creamy lobster bisque, and classic Italian desserts before a complimentary midnight toast. Seatings will be available at 5pm, 7pm, and 9pm. Be sure to book your reservation at with your seating preferences.

The Goat’s Beard

• The Goat’s Beard knows how to put a twist on a classic. Stop over, wearing your best pleather and leg warmers, to party like it’s 1980 in 2017! There will be themed food stations, an open bar, live music, and even a costume contest leading up to the big countdown. Call 267-323-2495 to reserve your spot for the best throwback party in the neighborhood.

Sweet Elizabeth’s Cakes

• If your midnight cravings don’t go away just because it’s New Year’s Eve, there’s always Sweet Elizabeth’s! Manayunk’s favorite bakeshop will be featuring champagne cupcakes and a special chocolate New Year’s Eve cake, The 2017, with champagne-soaked strawberries, buttercream, and chocolate ganache. Preorder for your NYE dinner/house party!

J.D. McGillicuddy’s

• Boogie all night long at McGillicuddy’s! Stop by from 9PM-1AM on New Year’s Eve, when you can enjoy their open bar, party favors, and DJ on the dancefloor. Maybe bring an umbrella: McGillicuddy’s likes their champagne in showers when the clock strikes midnight.

Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant

• The Brewery always knows how to have a good time, and their New Year’s Eve party certainly won’t be any different. You can guarantee there will be champagne toasts, party favors, and a DJ playing great music ‘til the morning hours. Choose between their General Admission ticket (includes a three-hour open bar and hors d’oeuvres) or VIP Reserved Seating for additional hors d’oeuvres and tableside cocktail service. Dress for the occasion!

Maya.J

• If you’re looking for a more relaxing evening, head over to Maya.J (with an empty stomach). They will be hosting their Seven Course Spectacular, featuring complimentary champagne, decadent seafood appetizers and entrees, mouth-watering short ribs, and of course, scrumptious desserts. Vegan and vegetarian alternatives will be available at your request! Seatings are available at 5:30, 7:30, and 9:30.

Lucky’s Last Chance

• Serving up super-filling, super-satisfying food has always worked for Lucky’s, so they’re welcoming 2017 like every year before it. Starting at 8:30, Lucky’s will be offering a four-course special including Molé Chicken Grilled Cheese and a Lamb Burger. Each course will be paired with Oskar Blues Beer, a Rémy Martin cocktail, a Bluebird Dark Rum cocktail, or Lamarca Sparkling Wine. These reservations always go fast, so don’t delay.

Couch Tomato Bistro

• Instead of sitting on your couch New Year’s Eve, head to Couch Tomato Bistro for an equally laid-back (but definitely more interesting) night. Enjoy any starter, plus any two entrees and a bottle of wine for $75. Not to mention some festive New Year’s Eve atmosphere!

Winnie’s LeBus and Smokin’ John’s Barbeque

• I’m sure many of us have had to make the tough decision between dinner at Winnie’s or Smokin’ John’s. Luckily, on New Year’s Eve, you don’t have to. Come for their two-for-one party, which will include a three hour open bar, extensive food buffet, live music, and DJ entertainment all night at both locations. Don't forget the champagne (and bourbon) toast at midnight!

Get ready to cap off the holiday season with a night to remember. We can’t wait to share it with you this New Year’s Eve in Manayunk!