Talk about pressure: New Year’s Eve practically merits its own panic level. You want to end the year in style, but you’d rather not deal with public transport or too many pricey cabs. Good news: If you live (or plan on partying) in one of these ‘hoods, we’ve got walkable itineraries for ringing in 2006.
Uptown
What better way to get out of the cold than with a shot of hot jazz? See 2005 off with Ed Peterson and Frank Catalano at the Green Mill (9 p.m. $15. 4802 N. Broadway. 773-878-5552). Work up your appetite for tunes over dinner at Agami (prices vary; 4712 N. Broadway. 773-506-1854), whose futuristic decor should help ease you into 2006 dining.
River North
It’s the last night of 2005, and you’re hungry for one of the year’s biggest dining trends: sushi. Enjoy a three- or four-course dinner at Japonais ($100-$125. 600 W. Chicago. 312-822-9600), paired with a champagne toast. Once the sushi’s settled, head to House of Blues for live music by Train (9 p.m. $155. 329 N. Dearborn. 312-923-2000). Warning: This evening will close out 2005 with a bang, but prepare to break the bank.
Wicker Park
Something about the way “grilled duck with butternut squash risotto and fig relish” rolls off the tongue makes us wish it were New Year’s Eve every night. It’s just one of the options on a three-course, prix-fixe menu at Thyme Cafe ($35-$50. 1540 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-227-1400). Then, hit Double Door for a serenade from hometown heroes Local H (10 p.m. $60, includes hosted bar. 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-489-3160) or stroll over to Cans for a premium open bar, champagne toast and favors (9 p.m. $90. 1640 N. Damen Ave. 773-276-7582).
West Town
Want to start observing that healthy-diet resolution one night early? Opt for Green Zebra’s veggie-friendly, five-course dinner ($65. 1460 W. Chicago Ave. 312-243-7100), then amble down the block to Sonotheque (8 p.m. $75-$90. 1444 W. Chicago Ave. 312-226-7600), where DJs Josh Deep and Joe Bryl spin into the new year. Includes an open bar from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. and a champagne toast.
Lincoln Park
Got some change left over in your 2005 piggy bank? Splurge at the year’s biggest restaurant debut, Alinea ($175-$225. 1723 N. Halsted St. 312-867-0110), which offers eight- and 12-course menus. Then, bid 2005 adieu at Zella (8:30 p.m. $100. 1983 N. Clybourn Ave. 773-301-2626); the spot’s annual indoor-outdoor bash includes a DJ, open bar, appetizers, favors and a champagne toast. Looking for something more low-key? Tickets are still available for “After the Quake” at Steppenwolf (3 and 7:30 p.m. $38-$60. 1650 N. Halsted St. 312-335-1650).
