Bar Time

Let’s face it, overall 2008 was a year full of ups and downs.

However, in less than 24 hours, it will all be behind us. So instead of dwelling on the past let’s make a decision for the very near future. I’m talking about New Year’s Eve.

Still have no plans? I find that nearly impossible to believe but here are a few last minute Milwaukee hotspots eager to help make 2008 well, forgettable. Here’s to ’09, everybody. Cheers!

Café Luna and Lounge in the Third Ward (situated directly on the Riverwalk) has something for the swankiest of crowds. Tickets are $10 in advance (you can purchase them through their Web site) or $15 at the door. You’ll get live jazz by Streetlife with Warren Wiegratz until 1 a.m., party favors close to midnight and, of course, a champagne toast. Don’t forget about that delicious dessert menu, either.

Brandedat The Iron Horse Hotel is hoping to lure in the sort of patron who likes to avoid the typical New Year’s Eve crowd. Buy a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine of your choice at a special New Year’s Eve price and be sure to get down on the dance floor with DJ Crisgo Disco from 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

This New Year’s Eve, Decibel is trying to make their club scene classy, and by the sound of their VIP packages they’ve succeed. There are so many options to choose from but, if you have a bunch of friends to do this with, the most expensive one sounds like the best bet. For $800, you’ll get a table for eight people, two hours of open bar and a buffet, a bottle of Louis Roederer Champagne and a bottle of liquor. It’s a little bit of a sticker shock at first glance, but Decibel is hooking you up to make sure this night is unlike any other. Make your reservations early by calling 414-272-3337.

And don’t forget that The Milwaukee County Transit System is offering free bus rides well into the wee hours of the morning.