You don’t have to travel far to experience “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” On May 6 grab your wide-brimmed hat and head out to some local restaurants to celebrate with Southern-style sips and eats.
The Cooper
From 3 p.m. to close, The Cooper will offer Southern-inspired dishes such as crispy cornmeal oysters, derby deviled eggs and southern fried chicken thighs. Derby Day drinks, including the mint julep, Kentucky mule and sweet Southern tea are $6 in the bar areas.
Hilton West Palm Beach
The Hilton West Palm Beach will host a Kentucky Derby party at Galley from 6-9 p.m. with drink specials including $8 mint juleps and pink ladies cocktails.
The Regional Kitchen & Public House
At the bar, Derby fans can enjoy classic mint juleps off the special weekend happy hour menu and select bourbons from the bourbon bar, while watching the full race broadcast.
To celebrate the occasion, Chef Lindsay Autry will be offering a special Kentucky version of her signature fried chicken thighs: hot and spicy!
Rather stay in with friends?
Brush up on the history behind the Kentucky Derby’s official drink and then mix it up yourself!
Mint Julep
- Fresh mint sprigs
- 2 tsp. mineral water, flat
- 1 tsp. granulated sugar, raw
- 2 oz. Old Forester bourbon
- Cracked ice
In a chilled julep chalice, lightly rub six to eight mint leaves on the inside walls, bruising the leaves slightly; leave the mint in the cup (you can also muddle the mint, but delicately). Fill the cup two-thirds of the way with cracked ice; slowly add bourbon, allowing it to trickle through ice. In a separate mixing cup, combine water and sugar, stirring until mostly dissolved; add to julep cup. Stir with a bar spoon until cup frosts—no more than 60 seconds. Top with more cracked ice and a sprig of mint for garnish. Enjoy!
The post 4 Ways to Celebrate the Kentucky Derby appeared first on Palm Beach Illustrated.