New Year's Eve tends to put a lot of pressure on everyone. Where you are and what you do at midnight determines how you start the new year. Especially with this Dec. 31 concluding an entire decade, I'm definitely feeling some high expectations this year, and I want to make sure I get it right.
If you're like me and don't necessarily love being in huge crowds and getting all dressed up just to have someone spill their drink on you, the big New Year's Eve party scene is probably not what you want. And that's OK! You don't have to go to a huge party to have a fun, memorable New Year's Eve.
How about a nice, classy evening at some of the swankier bars in Kansas City? You can still dress up in your sparkles and heels (or not!), and you can also truly enjoy yourself and the people you are with when you get there. Here are my top favorite picks for a smaller New Year's Eve celebration.
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1. The Monarch Cocktail Bar + Lounge
Chic, contemporary bar with craft cocktails and small plates, plus a patio.
2. Reserve Restaurant + Lounge
Restaurant and lounge at the Ambassador Hotel serving New American cuisine in a stylish, airy space.
3. Julep
Sleek haunt featuring whiskey-centric cocktails and bites with a Southern twist in warm, relaxed digs.
4. Ça Va
Champagne and French nibbles served in a rustic-chic cocktail lounge with an outdoor patio.
Follow Hayley Hyer @hayhyer