SOUTH FLORIDA, Fla. – Known as ‘America’s Greatest Race,” the annual Kentucky Derby has taken place at Churchill Downs, a legendary thoroughbred horse racetrack, since 1875. This year, it takes place on Saturday, May 1.
While the tradition of attending the race dressed in preppy, Southern attire isn’t exactly a South Florida tradition, as bars welcome back patrons since the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, establishments across town are serving classic Derby juleps and bites for the first time since 2019.
Recommended Videos
Below, we’ve rounded up Kentucky Derby events and specials with some southern charm being offered across Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
Batch Gastropub:
Grab your fancy hats and dress up at any of the three Batch locations: Batch Gastropub: Miami, Batch Gastropub: Delray, & Batch New Southern Kitchen & Tap. Watch the Kentucky Derby while sipping on tasty $7 Mint Juleps and any other eats that you may find on their menu. Those who come in dressed to impress have a chance to win their “Best Dressed Contest.” However, if you’re not dressed appropriately for the occasion, don’t worry, because you still have a chance of winning a $1,000 gift card for hitting a “trifecta.”
American Social:
On Saturday, May 1, at 3 p.m., gallop on over to American Social for drink specials sure to calm your nerves while watching the Kentucky Derby. True to Kentucky Derby form, American Social will feature the derby’s favored flavors with drinks such as Frozen Peach Juleps, $14 Kentucky Vacations, and $14 Smoked Old Fashioned cocktails. Plus, try their (Horse)radish Cheddar Burger, which is two ¼ lb. smashed patties, American cheese, smash sauce, pickles, and caramelized onions all between a fluffy pretzel bun.
The Gramercy Coral Gables:
They’re off to the races at The Gramercy in Coral Gables on Saturday, May 1 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. where the Derby will be playing on the big screens. Plus, The Gramercy will be serving up Southern favorites and a “Hat & Style” contest.
Guests are welcome to wear their best race day attire and Derby hats to watch the race, plus, take part in the Kentucky tradition of Southern specials like Bourbon Chicken Wings, Truffle Caviar Deviled Eggs, as well as Mint Juleps and Old Fashioneds (reservations recommended). At 6 p.m., the winner of The Gramercy’s Hat & Fashion contest will be crowned, taking home a prize package of champagne, a lavish dinner at The Gramercy, and other goodies.
PLA Seminole Hard Rock at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood:
Watch the Kentucky Derby at PLA Sports Bar’s official Watch Party on Sat., May 1. Enjoy $8 Woodford Mint Julep’s at happy hour pricing all day long. Plus, derby hats are welcome.