Food/Dining

Ring in 2011 in the romantic ambiance of AAA Four Diamond Sassi, an exquisite dining destination resembling an Old World Italian villa set amongst the breathtaking beauty of Pinnacle Peak. Whether you decide to enjoy an early dinner or dine and party the night away in one beautiful setting, Sassi has the ultimate evening for everyone. The early dinner service begins with a cocktail and spuntini reception in the bar starting at 5 p.m. and will include roasted shiitake mushrooms with braised veal and truffled pecorino; Taleggio crostini with quince marmalata; and involtini of arugula, poached pears and gorgonzola dolce. Champagne, wine and cocktails served during the reception are included in the price for the first seating. Early seating for dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. and tables may be occupied until 8 p.m. Sassi's Executive Chef Christopher Nicosia has prepared a fabulous New Year's Eve menu for both seatings, including an antipasti offering of Cotecchino and lentils with mostarda di frutta or house-cured salmon and crespelle napoleon with lemon mascarpone, quail eggs, caviar and lemon. Entrees will feature a choice of pancetta-wrapped veal loin with truffle potato gratin, roasted baby carrots and porcini sauce; roasted duck breast with butternut squash risotto and cherry foie gras sauce; and grilled sea bass stuffed with herbs and lemon, and served with a crab and arugula fingerling potato salad. The menu concludes with a choice of decadent desserts -- a dark and white chocolate dome with golden raspberries or vanilla panna cotta with cranberry compote and pistachio tuile. The second dinner seating begins at 8:30 p.m. and will feature a five-course menu, live entertainment provided by Renee Patrick and her band, party favors and a midnight toast with Piper-Heidsieck Champagne. The menu includes a choice of gnocchi neri with lobster, chive oil and lobster butter; or cocoa pappardelle with wild boar ragu. Reservations with payment are required online at sassi.biz/restaurant/reservations.php. The cost is $75 per person for the early seating at 6:30 p.m. and $125 per person for the second seating at 8:30 p.m.

Contact Info cost details Website: www.sassi.biz