Las Vegas: New Year’s party at Central for $201.20

It’s never too early to make New Year’s Eve reservations in Las Vegas. Central (pronounced sen-TRAL), the Michel Richard restaurant at Caesars Palace, is throwing two parties -- one indoors, one outdoors -- to celebrate 2012.

The deal: Richard, who opened Central in Caesars in September, has landmark restaurants in Washington, D.C., and Virginia. On New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will throw a small outdoor party for $201.20 per person for about 100 to 120 lucky guests who get to see fireworks over the Strip. Availability is limited, but spaces remain, says general manager Tony Rodrigues.

The party inside is bigger, about 250 people, and costs $115 per person. Both parties are 11 p.m.-1 a.m. (or beyond, Rodrigues says) where guests receive unlimited Champagne and unlimited “bites.” Food includes bacon and onion tart, gougeres (Gruyere cheese puffs), fried chicken with Dijon sauce and more. Cheesecake with raspberry coulis and a chocolate bar with hazelnut sauce round out the dessert items.

When: Parties run 11 p.m.-1 a.m. on Dec. 31.

Tested: It’s hard to say what Vegas parties generally cost, but $100 to $200 a person is not unreasonable by Vegas standards. Note that prices don’t reflect tax and 18% tip.

Contact: Central at Caesars Palace, (702) 650-5921.