Dining in Port Antonio on New Year's 2005
 

My wife and I will be in Jamaica on New Years Day 2005. We will be staying at Rio Vista, however, we would like go out this evening to celebrate (also our anniversary) the Day with some 'fine dining', as may be available. No specific cuisine preference, though we would be open to something non-local for one evening, considering we will be staying in Jamaica for 2 weeks. Let me know if you have any recommendations.

Stay put -- Rio Vista's probably your best choice. See if DeMontevin Lodge in=town Porty is doing anything special.
Check out also Long Bay to see if
there's anything on at the bar there. You could overnight or extend your stay
at two simple cottages on the beach called Yarimba, available thru Carolyn Barrett (www.barrrettadventures.com) just down the beach from the Cool Runnin's Bar. Chcek also the telephone poles for placards on concerts when you arrive and put the word out for what's on -- and special. Or ask Rio Vista in advance. Hope you enjoy your holiday -- it's a magical place.

The nearest 'fine dining' to Porty is Strawberry Hill, at Irish Town overlooking the lights of Kingston below and 2 hours away by driver. Toscanini's at Harmony Hall, Evita's and Passage to India in Ochi/Ocho Rios are also a good 2 hours drive.The restaurant at the Blue Hole/Blue Lagoon is good, if more casual.

maybe check out hotel mockingbird....

I agree with the others. Sharon at Rio Vista will serve you the best food with the best atmosphere you can find. We were there in August for our 10th Anniversary / honeymoon we never took and Sharon's fare was the best part of our trip.

BTW. New Year's Day in Jamaica tends traditionally to be pretty quiet as many will be sleeping/hung-over from the evening before -- or in church.

We've spent 5 of the last 7 NYE at blue lagoon and have loved it (obviously). They have a nice buffet and after dinner lots of people shed their nice clothes and jump in the water. They then have a DJ (with 6 ft. high speakers) blasting until you have to leave. Staff is great and helpful. Only downside is the too long walk to the restrooms.