WHERE TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S EVE IN CARMEL

If you’re looking for a special way to bring in the New Year, Carmel-by-the-Sea has some special delights in store. Whether you have a taste for fine dining, traditional music or a family-friendly day, Carmel has something to offer everyone.

What better way to spend a romantic New Year’s Eve with the one you love than joining Chef Justin Cogley—Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2013—for a delectable fine dining experience. Chef Justin has created a unique menu with his signature dishes. The four course menu includes: Dungeness crab with winter spices, Dover sole with braised pear and walnuts and fermented plum cake. The six-course menu is accompanied by a wine pairing and champagne toast and includes: venison, quince and gingerbread and Japanese miyazaki beef options. Reservations 831 624 8578.

If you’re in the mood for a night of music from the Great American Song Book, Hidden Valley is the place to be. Three of Monterey County’s renowned musicians will be serving up a feast of musical treasures. Join pianist Bobby Phillips, saxophonist George Young and Eddie Erickson on banjo for a night you won’t forget. Also on the menu are a range of small, delicious plates, a bubbling champagne toast and the spellbinding act of magician Rich Myer. The event starts at 9pm. Get your tickets HERE.

If you want to celebrate the coming year with your family, but don’t want to keep the youngsters up all night, Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum) has the perfect event. Noon Year’s Eve will be ringing in the New Year at a child-friendly hour. This popular event includes face painting, party hats, and noise makers for a fun-packed countdown. Requires reservations – call 831 649 6444.

– C Underwood