Xmas and New Year revelry

Kansai — There’s no shortage of places in Kansai to enjoy Christmas and welcome 2013, but for those who want to fill up on food or party the night away, here’s a few lively choices.

Absinthe Solaar (www.absinthe-jp.com) is serving up a Christmas Illumination course throughout December, which is ¥5,000 per person. They are also holding an exclusive Christmas dinner party, called Cocktails & Pinos. This food, drink and illuminations event will be held just four times, on December 24 and 25. Tickets are ¥10,000 per person. For reservations call 06-6633-1445.

If you’d like to try a European-style Christmas dinner on December 24 and 25, Cafe Absinthe (www.absinthe-jp.com) is serving up a Greek-style turkey, mash and veg plate for ¥1,500 per person. They’re also planning a Christmas Course at ¥2,500–¥4,000 per person.

Captain Kangaroo (www.roo-bar.jp) will have live music from Frying Dutchman at their Xmas party and a countdown DJ party on New Year’s Eve.

The Blarney Stone (www.the-blarney-stone.com) in Umeda is offering its traditional Christmas dinner from Dec 21 for ¥2,200 and is having a free Christmas Party on Dec 25 from 7pm.

Coolabah (www.coolabah.jp) is also having its own down under Xmas party on Dec 25 and countdown party on New Years Eve. Check the website for details.

The perfect choice for hip-hop fans, Pure Osaka (http://pure-osaka.com) will have DJs, dancers and an all-you-can-drink deal all night on December 31 (¥4,500 for men, ¥3,000 for women). And the merriment doesn’t have to end on January 1. Ali’s Kitchen (www.aliskitchen.jp), home of the Brain Masala dish featured in KS August, is holding a New Year Special Buffet from 2–6 January.

Please check websites for up-to-date details.