New Year's Eve Dinner at Notch8, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

About this party

The 'Castle in the City' puts on one of downtown Vancouver's most complete New Year's dinners at Notch8, its main restaurant off the lobby. The hotel's chefs serve a seven-course menu for the occasion, with luxury touches such as scallop crudo topped with caviar, a truffle-and-chestnut pasta course, and a choice of wagyu striploin or lamb for the main. A separate vegetarian menu is offered, which is unusual for a set holiday menu at this level. There are two windows: an early seating between 5 and 7 pm and a late seating from 8 pm through midnight. Live music plays across both, from 5 to 9 pm and again from 9 until 12:30 am, so late diners see the countdown in the room. The adult price is $315 and already includes taxes, fees and an 18% gratuity, so there's no surprise on the bill. Children aged 6 to 12 are half price, and children under five eat free from the children's menu, which makes this a rare luxury option for families.