Weekend Guide–New Year’s Eve

Last-minute party plans for your inner rockstar (or foodie or hipster or homebody)

Do you hear that ticking sound? That, my friend, is time running out on making New Year’s Eve party plans. But it’s not too late to ring in 2010 in style. Simply choose one of these four itineraries:

Rockstar
Drop by Stone Rose Lounge at the Fairmount Scottsdale (pictured) for a karma-cleansing good time. Enjoy tarot card readings, or send someone a “pay-it-forward” cocktail and be automatically entered for fab door prizes. Of course, like any rockstar, you’ve gotta indulge before you cleanse, so savor Bourbon Steak’s seven-course feast ($165), or turn it into an all-night affair with a special $199 room rate (both include complimentary party access). Tix are $50, 480-419-2189.
Foodie
Over the last 12 years, Sam Fox has stormed the dining scene with his mix of stylish décor, well-trained crews and upscale-yet-approachable cuisine. Savor it all at a smoking price with Fox Restaurant’s New Year’s Eve prix fixe menus. Locations Valley-wide; $35 – $50 before 5:45 p.m., $50 – $85 after.
Hipster
If your idea of a good time is a dive bar with pool tables and real-deal steel-tipped darts, then HB Hanratty’s is calling your name. This classic Camelback pub has new owners who’ve spiffed the place up a bit, but fear not, it’s still plenty funky right down to the iconic signage of a jaunty fellow with a handlebar mustache and cowboy hat. Enjoy the “4-3-2” Countdown Happy Hour—$4 you-call-it cocktails, $3 bottled beers and $2 drafts. 537 E. Camelback Rd., 602-274-3067
Homebody
Skip the madness and host your own bubbly blowout with these Champagne specials.  Treat your special someone to a bottle of Louis Roederer Cristal Brut ‘02 ($200 at BevMo). Keep the flat-tasting Veuve Clicquot on the shelf and go for these floral, crisp substitutes at Cost Plus: Perrier Jouet Grand Brut ($39) or Piper Heidsieck Brut ($38). Finally, our favorite bubbly bargain is Montaudon—overflowing with bright apple and pear flavors, it’s only $30 at Total Wine.