Watch for the debut of OUR NEW pages Feb. 17, 2010

Wow!  Get ready for an exciting new "Celebrity Chef Connection" as it tranforms into a streamlined blog debuting in 2010, serving up news of your big foodie world in small tasty bites every Wed. thereafter.

            . . . Barbara Nosek & Debbie Hall

FOR NOW, ENJOY THESE NUGGETS

THROUGH THE END OF 2009

Just some of Las Vegas' festive NYE dining spots . . .

 *  Charlie Palmer Steak in the Four Seasons has pulled out all the stops to present such a la carte delectables as iced shellfish platter, kobe beef tartare, several steaks, kurobuta pork chop, wild mushrooms with caramelized onions, truffle baked potato, buttermilk onion rings (the best !!!), classic sauces and oh so much more.  702.632.5120.

* Or go gourmet in a more casual mode at LBS: A Burger Joint in Red Rock Casino on way west Charleston, where there are "pounds" of goodies including a "surf and turf" special that tops all natural beef with sautéed jumbo shrimp, braised winter greens, red onion marmalade and oven roasted roma tomatoes with truffle infused hollandaise sauce served with hand-cut fries, all for $20.10 with Champagne, $14.95 without, plus party favors as the bewitching hour approaches. Opens 11:30am. 702.797.7777.

* Or have a "beach" of an experience right here in the desert as Cabo Wabo Cantina on the Strip pairs a three-course dinner and midnight Champagne or tequila toast with a performance by OU812, the Sammy Hagar tribute band.  Doors 9:30pm, advance tix $100.  702.385.2226.

*  Or want to celebrate on New Years Day instead (or, too!).  Head for T&T's Mariachi Brunch in Luxor, actually served Jan. 1-3, and featuring choice of soup, entree and dessert, all with a south of the border vibe taking shape as, e.g., tortilla soup, huevos rancheros, chocolate morinita sundae, and more.  And you know it's all good when the exec cheffing is by renowned Richard Sandoval. Served 11am to 3pm, $19 per person, plus twofer drink specials. 702.262.5225.