There are certainly quite a few in the country who are more than ready to bid adieu to the volatility that was 2009. It was a trying year for many; a year that separated the true luxury connoisseurs from those who were fortunate enough to pose as such for a few short years. Business folded and billion-dollar industries took a hit. But in a glass-is-half-full mentality, we recognize that the events of 2009 only served a greater purpose in helping us to redefine the essence of luxury, which is always about impeccable service, over-the-top quality, and beautiful craftsmanship. Whether you are cursing or blessing the events of 2009, the inevitable fact remains that it is on its way out, so here are a few of our hautest suggestions on where you might bid the year a fond farewell.

The Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

It’s not just the legend behind the name that led us to choose the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco as one of our haute choices for New Year’s Eve; it is the consistency of the masterpieces that come out of Chef Ron Siegel’s kitchen that are making our taste buds salivate. Of course his creations excite our palates any time of the year, but for this particular New Year’s Eve event, he is going above and beyond what we would expect on any other Thursday night by offering a seven-course tasting menu. While it is not a new format for The Dining Room, considering that they offered something quite similar in years past, the reappearance of the recognizable only validates its succulent success.

New Year’s Eve at The Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is $500 per adult, inclusive of wine pairing, tax, and gratuity, and enjoyment of a live band and dancing.

The Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is located at 600 Stockton St., 415.773.6198