Best Oscar Parties In New York City - New York Oscar Viewing

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Those readers who are planning to flip on the TV, throw a bag of popcorn into the microwave, and tune in half-way to see the Oscars — we regret to inform you, this post is not for you. But if you are someone after our own hearts, one of those who catches up the night before on films accidentally overlooked, a person who plans a complementary outfit/cocktail/playlist based on your favorite nomination, or somebody who still fumes about Eartha Kitt being left out of last year's tribute reel, then we've got a serious treat for you. We've rounded up the city's best Oscar options, from campy queens to DIY cocktails, for a night of red carpet criticism, decadent drinking, and Brad vs. George vs. Gary.

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Click through to find your best Academy bet, making sure the ultimate winner on Sunday is you.

Party Down

If a little noise and a lot of shouted comments about Anne Hathaway's dress is up your alley, here are some high profile events that'll certainly raise the (cultural) roof.

Sidebar 2012 Open Bar Oscars Viewing Party: This Union Square space hosts multiple HD TVs (so no fighting over seating) and a well-drink open bar, plus a complimentary glass of wine for toasting the winners. Most accurate ballot wins a dinner on the town, as well.

Sidebar, 120 East 15th Street (at Irving Place), 212-677-2900. $50, or $25 here.

Murray Hill Oscar Party: Hosted at the raucous Joe's Pub, this now-legendary shindig boasts a rowdy guest list, tons of drinking, and schlocky one-liners. Spoofs, trivia, and awards for worst dressed will be on hand, doled out by the smart-alecked host. Probably not for those interested in a quiet evening.

Joe's Pub, 425 Lafayette Street (between 4th Street and St. Marks Place), 212-539-8778. $25.

Alt Oscar's 2012: Hoping to Occupy The Red Carpet, this zany event adds a downtown spin on the serious fete, handing out awards to attendees (best dressed, best political statements, weirdest costumes), and snapping pictures with their own paps. After the credits roll, attendees will be treated to a full-on post-Academy party, too.

Tammany Hall, 152 Orchard Street (Between Stanton and Rivington streets). $15 presale, $20 at the door.

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Photos: Courtesy of Sidebar, Joe's Pub, and Kostume Kult.

A Low-Key Affair

If doing shots anytime host Billy Crystal makes a bad pun and shouting over acceptance speeches isn't your thing, we've scoped some options where drinking, dining, and viewing can be done without sacrificing any of the action.

Bill's Bar and Burger: If your Oscar date is of the beer-swilling variety, low-key carnivores might enjoy sipping a brew at this burger joint known for its killer beef. The show will be screening for all, but the only difference from a regular night is a tasty Moneyball-inspired Stout Float.
Bill's Bar and Burger, 22 9th Avenue (at West 13th Street), 212-414-3003. Free.

Flastbush Farm Viewing Party: $25 bottles of Prosecco, delicious bar bites like bread plates and oysters, and a giant projector screen. Need we say more? This tasty Park Slope staple is also offering $2 off their craft beer on tap.
Flatbush Farm, 76 Saint Marks Avenue (at Flatbush), 718-622-3276. Free.

Ardesia Wine Bar: If sipping some fermented grapes and discussing the merits of The Artist feels like your perfect evening (and doesn't it?), this wine bar is offering flights and artisanal popcorn for munching. A $50 gift card goes to the most accurate ballot.
Ardesia Wine Bar, 510 West 52nd Street (between 10th and 11th avenues), 212-247-9191. Free.

Photos: Courtesy of Flatbush Farm, BR Guest, and Becca PR.

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DIY Decadence

Who needs to hear what other people have to say about major Oscar dresses when you are the only opinion you need? Jim Meehan of PDT and Beefeater and Plymouth ambassador Nick Van Tiel each came up with killer cocktails that are sure to get a supporting actor nod (badum!) at any Academy soiree you might host.

War Horse Punch:
Three 750-ml bottles Iron Horse Classic Vintage Brut Sparkling Wine
One 750-ml bottle Beefeater Gin
One 750-ml bottle Banks 5 Island Rum
One 750-ml bottle Galliano L’Autentico
25 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

Combine in a large punch bowl filled with ice cubes. Grate nutmeg over the surface of the punch (use roughly half a teaspoon). Ladle each portion into some punch cups, pinch a lemon peel over the surface and serve. This recipe makes around 50 drinks for thirsty guests.
Created by Jim Meehan of PDT, New York City

The Iron Lady:
Two parts Plymouth Gin
Half part grenadine
Half part lemon juice (fresh)
Three-quarters part egg white (optional)

This concoction is sharp and has quite the kick, like Thatcher and Streep both! Give all ingredients a good shake, strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a slice of lemon.

Norma Jeane
:
Four parts Beefeater London Dry Gin
Two parts Sweet Vermouth
One part Crème de Framboise

Five parts blood orange juice
Two parts blood orange sorbet
1 bottle of champagne
Blood orange slices and raspberries to garnish

Toast Kenneth Branagh or Michelle Williams with a punch Marilyn Monroe would have loved herself. Build all the ingredients, except the champagne, on rock ice in a bowl or jug. Stir to chill thoroughly and garnish with the blood orange slices and raspberries. Serve in Collins or punch glasses, and then top it with champagne.
Created by Nick Van Tiel, Beefeater & Plymouth Gin Brand Ambassador.

Photos: Courtesy of Access PR.

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