Happy Black Friday, everyone. Now that stores are open on Thanksgiving, maybe we can actually find a parking spot at the mall today (we're not counting on it).
This weekend mandates that you shop 'til you drop with day-after-Thanksgiving sales and "shop small" Saturday. Sunday? Take the day off and enjoy a leisurely brunch -- a mimosa never tasted so good!
See also: Ten Best Miami Brunches
Shopping and Eating at Village of Merrick Park
This Black Friday, skip the mega-mall and head over to Village of Merrick Park. Sure, this tony outdoor mall isn't known for bargain-basement prices, but there are plenty of deals to be had (and the fact that you're not being shoved around by a woman in a Grinch sweatshirt is priceless). In between stores, take a Key lime pie break at C'est Bon and relax. The little cafe on the second floor of the indoor/outdoor shopping palace also serves coffee drinks, salads, and paninis. Just the motivation you need for round two of "maxing out our credit cards."
See also: C'est Bon Serves Delicious Key Lime Pie in Coral Gables
Chanukkah Latkes
The much-hyped Thanksgivukkah came and went, never to be seen again for 70,000 years, but Hanukkah is still here and it's time to eat latkes! Celebrate the festival of lights with a serving of potato pancakes this weekend. You can make them at home with Danny Serfer's recipe or...better yet... go down to Blue Collar and get them fresh with a serving of applesauce for $9. Josh's Deli also serves latkes with caramelized apples for $6.95. Just like Bubbe used to make.
See also: Thanksgivukkah Latkes, Hors D'Oeuvres, and Leftovers, Danny Serfer Style
Shop Small Saturday
It may be some made-up holiday by American Express, but the idea behind it is brilliant -- and helps our local economy. Instead of going to those big-box retailers for mass-produced items, consider spending your dollars at local merchants. Put down that Starbucks travel mug and get Aunt Helen a pound of Panther coffee. Forget that generic nut platter -- send the folks up north a few bottles of tropical wine from Schnebly Redland's Winery or some hand-crafted sweets from Buena Vista Chocolate & Wine. You've just finished your holiday shopping by keeping it local!
Sunday Brunch
You've just dropped your parents off at the airport and, while it was a fun weekend, you're exhausted after a weekend of cooking, entertaining, and shopping. You need a bloody mary... or a mimosa... or both. Treat yourself to a fabulous brunch. La Gloutonnerie's unlimited (and classy) buffet won Miami New Times' best brunch 2013 award and it's a solid choice. For $49, you'll enjoy freshly baked pastries, carving stations, salads, and two glasses of champagne or mimosa. Bliss!
See also: Ten Best Miami Brunches
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