Dec. 31st is celebrated two distinct ways: It’s either a peaceful holiday for homebodies contemplating the New Year or it’s a nonstop party for folks who want to eat and bar-hop their way into the future. If you’re of the latter contingent, Pittsburgh offers plenty of places to raise a glass (and even raise the roof) to usher in 2019.
Here are a few highlights:
Scratch Food & Beverage, Troy Hill, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
This hilltop shindig starts with an a la carte New Year’s Eve Dinner, including appetizers, salads, main courses and dessert offerings. Once you’ve filled your belly, stick around for karaoke and a complimentary champagne toast.
Local Bar + Kitchen, South Side, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Get down high above East Carson Street! Local’s rooftop deck will be bumpin’ as revelers bust out party favors and dance to the beats provided by a DJ. General admission and open bar tickets — which include light appetizers — are available.
Charity Dinner at The Twisted Frenchman, East Liberty, 5 to 11 p.m.
Chef Andrew Garbarino doesn’t just want you to enjoy a dinner at The Twisted Frenchman … he wants you to enjoy it in his kitchen, and help the community along the way. This 15-course menu and wine pairing will set you back $1,000. Before you say, “Adieu!” just remember that all of the money will be donated to help feed Pittsburgh’s homeless through 412 Food Rescue. Bonjour! Call the restaurant at 412-665-2880 for reservations to this unique opportunity.
Federal Galley and Smallman Galley, North Side and the Strip District, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
The Galley Group’s two local restaurant incubators are ringing in 2019 with special celebrations. At Federal Galley on the North Side, guests get an hour and a half of unlimited snacks, five drink tickets good for a variety of beer, wine and spirits, live music from DJ Jarrett Tebbets and access to a custom photo booth. Over in the Strip, Smallman Galley will host its third annual Brew Year’s Eve. The event features an open bar with 20 craft beers from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., food from Home and crumb. and a souvenir glass. A $5 Lyft credit is included in both ticket prices.
Whitfield at Ace Hotel Pittsburgh, East Liberty, dinner service begins 5 p.m.
The final dinner of the year will be decadent at Whitfield: Along with executive chef Bethany Zozula’s regular menu, diners can indulge in Hackleback Caviar with potato chips and crème fraîche, Oysters Rockefeller made with Pernod, Truffle Mac & Cheese and a tenderloin served with butter-poached lobster, gnocchi and melted leeks. Reservations are recommended.
There ain’t no party like an oyster party, ‘cuz an oyster party don’t stop. Seriously, Muddy Waters is offering all-you-can-eat oysters on New Year’s Eve. This annual event gives ticket holders two complimentary glasses of sparkling wine and unlimited access to East and West Coast aphrodisiacs.
La Palapa, Traditional Mexican Kitchen, South Side, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Head over to the South Side for a grand buffet of south-of-the-border fare. Mariachi Internacional will kick off the fiesta and DJ J.Ski will spin tunes until 2 a.m. In addition to a cocktail and champagne toast, you’ll learn about the tradition of eating 12 wish-granting grapes at midnight.
Belvederes Ultra-Dive, Lawrenceville, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Was 2018 a whirlwind year that took all your money? Come to this Lawrenceville landmark and try to win entry into the Cash Cube, a tornado of currency, gift certificates, line-skip coupons and one pass through door entry good for all of 2019! DJ ADMC will be on hand to help you ride out the storm.
Jergel’s Rhythm Grille, Warrendale, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Totally 80s, a band that pays tribute to the decade of big hair and skinny ties, will provide the soundtrack to Jergel’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve Bash. Tickets include a balloon drop, champagne toast and midnight buffet.
Are you a snappy dresser? Your fashion sense could earn you $100 at City Works’ New Year’s Eve party. The Market Square sports bar is giving away a Benjamin to the person in the nicest duds. And, hey, even if you don’t win, you’ll enjoy four hours worth of premium open bar, appetizers, champagne, a photo booth and a video DJ highlighting 2018’s hits.