Boxing Day
On Sunday, Dec. 26, take your unwanted Christmas gifts to Fuego's Boxing Day gift-exchange dinner show with music by Joe Bourne and Kelly Cable. The evening will feature memorable duets, including songs from the repertoire of Nat King Cole, Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Lou Rawls and others. The show begins at 7 p.m. at 6958 E. Tanque Verde Road ; dinner is a three-course prix-fixe menu from $35-$45. Call 886-1745 for reservations.
Bubb's Grub
Mosey out to the former Hitching Post location in Catalina, recently renovated to make way for Bubb's Grub. This Texas-style barbecue joint features ribs, brisket, hot links, turkey and yard birds (chicken) with more chile and spiciness than sweetness or vinegar. Owner Dan Kuglitch moved here from Wisconsin, where he left behind his catering business for warmer climes. Bubb's opened Dec. 20 at 16010 N. Oracle Road. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily; 825-6510.
Tuscany Coffee
Not exactly new but filled with heart, a tiny trailer sits along the side of a busy road selling low-acid coffee drinks. There's nothing Tuscan about it except for an Italian-style cappuccino. Owners Keith and Chris also bought the adjacent building, which doubles as a free lending library and community theater. Drive slowly or you'll miss 16060 N. Oracle Road in Catalina; open daily; 825-2189.
Ring in the New Year
Wildflower, Bistro Zin and NoRTH host prix-fixe dinners on Friday, Dec. 31. All will feature an early seating from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. for $40 per person, and a later seating from 6 to 11 p.m. for $60 per person plus tax and 18 percent gratuity.Join Soleil for an elegant five-course dinner starting at 5 p.m.; $89 per person plus tax and gratuity. For an additional $25, add wine or champagne. A live jazz quartet performance begins at 6:30 p.m.
Dance under the stars on a heated patio at Hacienda Del Sol to the music of Gran Krueter Blues and Jazz. Chef Jonilonis will prepare a savory menu plus champagne for all. Call 299-1501 for reservations; $125 per person.
