Montelucia is fabulous, Barcelona's Winter Affair tonight

At Montelucia (Credit: Courtesy InterContenental Montelucia)

Recently, I had one of the best dates I've ever been on at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley.

The evening was crisp and clear, the sky was filled with stars and the party was filled with beautiful people. Which is the kind of thing you'll have at a party like this.

I got ridiculously dressed up, which for me mostly involves false eyelashes and a lot of hairspray, and mingled with friends and industry types at the M Bar at Prado, the restaurant in the fancy-pants resort.

 Then my date, who wore a black velvet jacket and skinny jeans, and I hung out in the starry darkness by the infinity pool for the rest of the evening, enjoying the fire pits, the views of the mountain and the signature cocktails.

The restaurant and bar are dark and atmospheric, located in a 34-acre resort with elegant Andalusian-inspired architecture and, just so you know, the biggest spa I have ever seen. I recommend wandering around the pool patio and the manicured grounds like we did, and then heading to the M Bar. There, order the Amate Picante, a martini that blends organic tequila, muddled cucumber and cilantro, agave nectar and lime juice. The cucumber gives it a cool, refreshing smell and taste, but the tequila gives it a spicy bite. 

And tonight, if you're looking for what will probably be one of the best parties in the city all season, head to Barcelona Steakhouse and Nightclub. Barcelona is hosting its Winter Affair, and it's kind of party you get dressed up for. The kind of party you look forward to. Because the people at Barcelona know how to throw a swanky event, regardless of the economy.

You're invited to be a VIP at this swanky, white-themed affair to enjoy a hosted bar by Snow Queen Vodka and Red Bull as long as you RSVP to barcelonaarizona.com. The party runs from 8 to 10 p.m. After 10, the public is invited to walk through the white tunnel entrance, let a little snow fall on them and enjoy the "iced" jewelry show by Isaac Jewelers. All bottles all night will be two for the price of one.

The evening's $10 cover or an unwrapped toy benefits the Boys and Girls Club of Metropolitan Phoenix.

Details: Montelucia at 4949 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, 480-627-3200, icmontelucia.com; Barcelona is at 15440 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Scottsdale, 480-603-0370, barcelonaarizona.com.