People who come to Central Oregon for fun know that on New Year’s Eve it all starts at Merenda Restaurant in Bend. Merenda’s aim is to bring a bit of France and Italy to the heart of Central Oregon. For those lucky enough to be living here, or for those passing through, Merenda’s New Years Gala Event 2008 promises to be a bit of heaven as well. With the music provided by the Fabulous Essentials Band, the dance floor will be alive. New Years Eve is the band’s forte, and their 8-piece renditions of current hits, rock n roll classics, and heart-wrenching ballads keeps people on their feet and in someone’s arms. The party kicks off at 8:00 PM and features a champagne toast and complete 5 course dinner.
Merenda hosts two special pre-holiday parties that are both relished by local and visiting wine lovers. A wine and chocolate tasting with appetizers will begin Wed. 12/12/07 at 6:00 PM. The party includes a 5 course dinner. On Wed. 12/19 diners will gather for a 5 course Wine and Truffle Dinner that features tableside shaved truffles. Merenda is open 7 days from 11:30 AM with dinners served from 5:00 PM nightly. Chef Jody Denton suggests trying his newly introduced Happy Hour menu, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM daily. Reservations can be made by calling 541-330-2304 or online at MerendaRestaurant.com.