Rocktober

For the most part, Miamians don’t need an excuse to party. After work, the bars are filled with businessmen, and on the weekends, the clubs are overflowing with hard-drinkin’ dudes — many of whom look like they’re sporting the same damn striped shirt they wore during the week. But some people need an occasion. So we got one for ya: Oktoberfest. Who really cares that it’s a German celebration and Miami isn’t exactly known for its German population? If you’re down to slap on a sombrero for Cinco de Mayo, you damn well should be happy to hoist a brewski at any of the fetes taking place at bars around town.

First stop, Fritz & Franz Bierhaus (60 Merrick Way, Coral Gables). It has 14 years in the Oktoberfest game, so the authentic nature of this celebration can’t be questioned. From October 2 to 12, F&F will be packed with revelers seeking German cuisine, live music with which to get your oompah on, and, of course, overflowing beer steins. Admission is free, but event proceeds will benefit CHARLEE Homes for Children, so drink generously. Call 305-774-1883, or visit www.oktoberfestmiami.com. Around the corner at The Bar (172 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables), there’ll be an outdoor beer garden, a DJ, and giveaways galore. Dibs on the lederhosen! Call 305-442-2370. Even downtown is getting a taste of the action: At Prime Blue Grille (315 Biscayne Blvd., Miami), they’re bringing back the popular Endless Pours special. Every Saturday and Sunday in October, if you order dinner, the wine stewards will get you tipsy on a selection of 10 to 12 top German wines, including sparkling, white, red, dessert, and port. Cheapskates have nothing to worry about — the intoxicating deal will cost only $23 at lunch and $36 at dinner, excluding tax and gratuity. Call 305-358-5900, or visit www.primebluegrille.com.
Fri., Oct. 3, 2008