I really don’t like New Years. Lots of hype, added cost, and the night never turns out how you wanted. I’m way over the crowded DC bar parties where you end up paying $150 for a 4 mile long line at the bar. No thank you.
However, last year I discovered (with the help of my dear friend and future Discountess contributor, Sara HP) the best New Years party in town at Bistrot du Coin (BDC). It’s unique, fun, and most-importantly, cost-effective.
Since I happen to have the closest abode to the restaurant, we gathered at my house for drinks before dinner. I had a bunch of leftover hors d’oeuvres and champagne from my Christmas party, so no shopping was required. Sara HP also brought over delicious prosciutto and fontina and pesto pinwheels to round out the food (The recipe is super easy and tasty! I definitely recommend it.).
BDC does 2 seatings on New Years – one early and one late – we opted for the later one at 9:30. We left my house at 9:10 and took the D2 straight to DuPont. I love the bus. LOVE. It picked up right outside my house, and dropped us 2 blocks from the restaurant. It was much easier than finding a taxi, and while walking is totally possible, it was cold and half of us were in heels. So, clearly that wasn’t happening.
We ended up with a group of about 12, which was a great size. We ordered bottles of wine and appetizers for the table, and the main course was straight off the menu. No pre fixe nonsense! If you’ve ever been to BDC before, then you know the food is fantastic. Clearly, they did not disappoint last night. Escargot anyone?
After a delicious dinner, they passed out sunglasses, hats, and noisemakers to the crowd. BDC hired a deejay, who was spinning some choice tunes, so we danced around and waited for the clock to strike 12. After the New Year, they pushed all tables to the side and a huge dance party broke out in the middle of the restaurant.
Ride to the party: $1.60
Cost of dinner (tax and tip included):$65.00
Ride home: FREE (This was total luck. I caught a ride with a friend who drove to the restaurant.)
GRAND TOTAL: $66.60 for an awesome evening with great food and friends…and a strobe light. An excellent way to start the New Year!
AND SCENE.
The Discountess of Washington 
Dear Dutchess, You have inspired me ! I love reading your blog which has humor and great information; love the recipes and photos. I must admit to you that I have not been the Cost Conscience Countess of the Cape, but I am going to give it my all as my New Year’s resolution, thanks to you. Keep up the great work, I am proud of all you have saved and learned in the process, without sacrificing what is important in life. P.s I am now an active member of BJs and The Market Basket.
Happy New Year ! Ilene Bendas
Sent from my iPad
Thanks so much for your support! I’m glad you are liking the blog. My new year’s resolution is to be better at it (as well as to be better at saving money!). Fingers crossed!