HAPPY NEW YEAR!

‘Why leave Tarboro if you don’t have to?’

KIMBERLY BELLAMY

Local bar and restaurant owners think there is no better place to bring in the New Year tonight than with them at their establishments.

“Why leave Tarboro if you don’t have to?” said Inez Ribustello, who co-owns On the Square Restaurant with her husband Steve Ribustello.

For the past five years, the couple annually has a special menu and hours on New Year’s Eve. Ribustello said that instead of people leaving town to bring in the New Year, they have reservations for people from Tarboro, Rocky Mount, Greenville and other locations that will celebrate at their restaurant.

On the Square, on 115 East St. James St., has been booked for the past two weeks, with 135 people that’s confirmed they will attend the restaurant for the four-course meal and glass of sparkling wine that will be served.

Just around the corner on 101 East Church St., the Wolf Den Tavern will be hosting a New Year’s party, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and remaining open until around 2 a.m.

David Cox, who co-owns the bar with his wife Mindy Cox, said that location would be the thing to think about if considering partying with them oppose to traveling elsewhere.

“We’re close to home, and if you get too intoxicated, we’ll find you a way home if we have to drive you ourselves,” he said.

“There are lots of benefits with staying closer to home.”

Cox said that ensuring that his customers enjoy themselves and are safe is one of his main concerns.

“I like to keep up a nice, respectable, community friendly place,” he said.

Wolf Den Tavern will have Chad Hagans, known as DJ Billy Bronco, providing music tonight. There will be free champagne offered at midnight.

Cox said that the first time people attend their bar they can come as a guest to see if they like it, then they can buy a year membership for $10 for the following visits. The membership offers cheaper rates for admission.

“People who are members will benefit, because they’re saving money every time they come in the door,” he said.

Those who don’t drink alcohol can still come and celebrate at the Wolf Den Tavern which offers tea, coffee and sodas.

Free party favors will be given out such as New Year’s hats to get their customers dressed for the occasion as well.

“I just want everyone to have a good time, and get home safe,” he said.

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