On Sunday, February 2, at 6:30 p.m. all normal activity on this planet will cease to exist as everyone in the world squats in front of a television to watch the Super Bowl.
Exaggeration? Somewhat. Last year, more than 46 percent of the population of the United States that tunes in to watch the "Big Game," which comes out to about 108 million people, according to ESPN.
This year, the Broncos take on the Seahawks in New Jersey, and unless you want to spend thousands of dollars to fly to the game, you're watching it on TV like the rest of us.
Luckily for you, this is Miami, and we know how to throw a party. So, besides your local sports bar (which is an absolutely good choice for game viewing), here are some places that are going that extra yard to make sure your Super Bowl Sunday is a touchdown!
From upscale versions of fan favorites to bars lit up in team colors, these are the coolest places to watch the game on Sunday.
All your favorite foods for the big game -- burgers, hot dogs, potato skins, but with an upscale culinary twist. $35 gets you unlimited feasting from chef Jamie DeRosa's imaginative spins on football staples like caja china-style roasted pork; Korean barbecue wings; beef cheek sliders; Kobe corn dogs; and poutine potato skins. $50 gets you an open bar during the game. Get both for $75.
It's no big deal to see big screen televisions at restaurants. It is a big deal when the entire place is turned into a giant football field, however. That's what happens at Haven, where fans will also enjoy tots, chicken wings, burgers, and popcorn while sipping Brooklyn Lager and watching the game on, well, every single wall of the place. Table reservations must be made in advance.
Sure, there are other Super Bowl parties around town, but how many offer food by Jose Andres to munch on? Special items include the SLS Burger with lettuce, heirloom tomato, and onion on a brioche bun ($20 with fries, $22 with Jose Andres chips); jumbo lollipop wings with Buffalo glaze ($24 for a dozen); media noche sliders (three for $14); Frito chili pie ($12); and patatas bravas ($10). For dessert, cool off with Key lime, blackberry ginger, strawberry guava, or mango chile paletas ($5 each); ice cream sandwiches (two for $5) or a frozen mojito ($8).
If you're on South Beach, look for the Monty's golf carts for a free ride to Monty's Sunset, where 1,000 people are expected to watch the Big Game. Long before kick-off, this party kicks-off with a pool party at 2 p.m. Live bands, DJs, a raw bar, and drink specials round out the fun. When the game starts, watch it on 27 televisions, including two giant inflatable screens.
With NFL players Jonathan Vilma of the New Orleans Saints, Jon Beason of the New York Giants, and DJ Williams of the Chicago Bears as co-owners of this Brickell barbecue joint, you know they'll throw a great watch party. Starting at 4 p.m., Mary Brickell Village's courtyard will be transformed into a giant tailgate party, complete with DJ Vertigo. Stay for the game, which will be shown on a jumbo screen, along with 30 other televisions.
Pick your sides -- and stay there because the bar at Batch will be illuminated in team colors -- half Seahawks, half Broncos. Watch the game on 15 screens and drink Tito's infused fireball shots for $8. The full Batch menu will be offered on game day.
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