If you're still a wee bit hung over from Memorial Day weekend, we've got the cure: More partying. Come on, you're not in Kansas. This is Miami and things are happening this weekend.
In case you needed an excuse to get out and enjoy life, it's Friday, the Miami Heat play the Pacers, and we've compiled a list of the best places to go to eat and drink on the cheap for happy hour.
There's also an insane burger eating competition (in case basketball's not your thing); eating for a cause, and a celebration of Scotch whisky.
Weekend starts now!
Happy Hour Alert
It's Friday and even though it was a short week, we bet you could use a drink right now to start the weekend off right. Gather your work buddies and make plans to drop in on one of Miami's best happy hours. From cheap beer to happy hour foie gras, here are the best places in which to toast the end of another work week:
See also: Ten Best Happy Hours in Miami
Brutus Burger Bonanza at Giraffas
Sure, the Miami Heat play the Pacers, but for some of us who prefer a "beefier" competition, there's the Brutus Burger Bonanza at Giraffas in Doral . Tonight, May 30 at 6:30 p.m. six contestants will go head to head (or mouth to mouth) to see who can finish the monster Brutus burger first. The Brutus, by the way, is six times the size of an ordinary burger, topped with bacon, ham, cheese, and an egg. Plus, the competition has a patriotic side since two of the entrants come from a local military base. What's in it for you (besides experiencing sheer awesomeness)? Specials and prizes. Be sure to post pics using hashtag #brutusburgerbonanza.
White Hot Heat Pre-Game Celebration at Bongos
If you're going to the Heat game tonight, stop in to Bongos Cuban Cafe beforehand to celebrate with live entertainment, Botran rum drink specials ($6); and a special buffet ($25). The party starts at 6 p.m., leaving you enough time to fill your stomach before the game.
"Fried and True" at Epicure Gourmet Market
Who doesn't love fried chicken? Come out and celebrate this golden, crunchy piece of Americana at Epicure in Coral Gables on Saturday, May 31 from noon - 2 p.m. You'll be able to sample fried chicken, made by Epicure's own MIchael Love and meet the author, Lee Brian Schrager, who will be on hand to autograph copies of his book (which will also be on sale at the market). Free, but RSVP (mandatory) to [email protected].
Nicky's Week at RA Sushi
RA Sushi is hosting its 10th annual "Nicky's Week" fundraiser now through Saturday, May 31. Just stop in and order from the special Nicky's Week menu, which includes edamame, tootsy maki rools, shrimp nigiri, pork gyoza, chicken yakitori, and bottomless strawberry lemonade, and 100% of the proceeds will go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. RA started Nicky's Week to honor the memory of Nicholas Malliard, a nephew of one of RA Sushi's founders, who lost a long battle with brain cancer at the age of 13. So, order up and eat and drink for a good cause!
Ardbeg Whisky Day at Blackbird Ordinary
Each summer, the Islay Whisky Festival celebrates Scotland's most beloved product -- the bagpipes..haggis..Scotch whisky. If you can't get to the Isle of I, make it to Blackbird Ordinary on Sunday, June 1 from 7 to 10 p.m. where hundreds of whisky lovers will enjoy complimentary BBQ, whisky tastings, and three different Ardbeg cocktails, created by Blackbird Ordinary's Fraser Hamilton (who just happens to be Scottish). You'll also celebrate the launch Ardbeg's limited edition release Auriverdes and mingle with players from the Miami United football club and members of the British Consulate General (swanky).
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