Black Friday is traditionally the day when retailers pull out the stops in a no-shame effort to separate you from your hard-warned cash.
Sure, it's a great way to save on all the presents on your list, but we've got a much better way. Pour yourself a hot cup of coffee, take advantage of all the Black Friday deals online (where early all retailers also offer free shipping), or skip the mall and opt for smaller shopping areas like South Beach's Collins Avenue shopping district or Coral Gables' Miracle Mile.
If you do brave the shopping center tomorrow, you're going to need to reward yourself with a nice cocktail afterward. We've got the scoop on a special Black Friday cocktail, too.
Happy shopping and brunching.
Tongue & Cheek
It's a little known secret, but the shops that line Collins Avenue on South Beach are basically the same as the ones in the mall -- but with far less holiday traffic. Walking from Fifth to Tenth Streets, you'll find the Gap, Banana Republic, Sephora, Ugg, Nine West, Sunglass Hut, Armani Exchange, Kenneth Cole, and more. Pick up a few bargains, then head to Tongue & Cheek for their special Black Friday Brunch featuring Goose Island's rare Barrel Aged Bourbon County Stout
This limited-edition brew is released once a year and only three kegs are coming to Miami. The keg will be tapped during this special holiday brunch, which starts at 11 a.m. All your favorite brunch items will be available a la carte including Key West pink shrimp n' grits ($16); lemon ricotta pancakes ($15); and fried chicken and waffles ($19). Valet parking is $5 (and so much more convenient than trying for a spot at the mall).
Swine Southern Table & Bar
Instead of the mall, why not shop local at some of the small boutique stores that line Coral Gables' Miracle Mile.
When you're done, stop in to Swine Southern Table & Bar for a down-home, filling brunch. Served from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the a la carte offerings include a warm sticky icky bun with maple bourbon toffee syrup, candied bacon, and sweet potato pie ice cream ($10); brisket steak and eggs ($28); and a crispy pork caesar salad ($17).
Devon Seafood & Steak
Devon Seafood & Steak happens to be located at the Palms at Town & Country, which means you can shop at stores like Marshall's, Nordstrom Rack, and Toys R Us, then toast your efforts with the special Black Friday margarita ($6). Made with Hornita Plata tequila, lemon juice, agave, blue curaçao, and blackberries, it's the perfect way to de-stress after dashing for the last Elsa doll or reindeer sweater.
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