From bar birthdays to BBQ (and both at the same time), we round up four can't-miss events in this week's food and drink news.
Beer Garden Pop-Up at The Raleigh
Great news, beer drinkers: The Raleigh's backyard (a.k.a. the Oasis) will turn into Buck's Beer Garden & Bonfire every first and third Thursday of the month. Picture fire pits, picnic tables, and classic German fare by Restaurant Michael Schwartz. Don't miss the next pop-up featuring Wynwood Brewing Company on March 19. 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-534-6300
Extended Happy Hour at The Local
Tired of waiting till 5? The Local Craft Food & Drink feels your pain; it just launched a 7-hour weekday happy hour that starts at noon. Sneak away from your desk for house-made lunch specials and exclusive prices on brews, wine, and spirits, or swing by from 3-4:30 p.m. for "linner" specials on charcuterie, cheese boards, and cornmeal hushpuppies. And for the workaholics, The Local does happy hour on the weekends from 4-7 p.m. 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305-648-5687
Birthday Drinks at MO Bar + Lounge
Stop in to say happy first birthday to Mandarin Oriental's MO Bar + Lounge and enjoy exclusive craft cocktails just for the occasion. Now through March 13, patrons can toast with celebratory libations like the MO 75 with Limoncello, grapefruit, and prosecco, or the POM Collins, a blend of gin, pomegranate, lemon, and soda. If you happen to be fêting a birthday this week as well, you'll get your very own treat: a complimentary punch cocktail. 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, 305-913-8358
BBQ Benefit at Uvaggio
There's another bar birthday down in Coral Gables; Uvaggio Wine Bar turns 1 on Sunday, March 22 and celebrating with a wine-fueled BBQ bash from 3-7 p.m. Come for wine and beer, live blues music, and signature dishes whipped up by Top Chef contestant Bret Pelaggi. Even better: The proceeds will benefit the Buckham family, whose daughter is battling cancer. 70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 305-448-2400; Purchase tickets here
