Immerse yourself at
Taste of Derby™
April 30, 7-10 PM
Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC)
Savor an exquisite selection of dishes from renowned celebrity chefs, each channeling the sophistication of the Kentucky Derby through the lens of refined culinary craftsmanship.
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of gourmet flavors, live music, and top-tier entertainment— all setting the stage for an extraordinary Derby weekend. Kick off Derby 152 in style with this one-of-a-kind celebration!
*Does not include access to the Kentucky Oaks or Kentucky Derby
Your Taste of Derby Experience
Signature Dishes from Elite Chefs
Savor exquisite creations from these top-tier chefs, each showcasing their signature flavors and flair in southern dishes inspired by refined culinary craftmanship.
Premium Open Bar
Raise a glass and toast to the Derby with a premium open bar, featuring an extensive selection of beer, wine, and top-shelf spirits. Sip on classic Derby cocktails like Mint Juleps and Oaks Lilys or enjoy refreshing sodas and gourmet coffee as you revel in the night’s festivities.
Photo Opportunities
Pose for photos throughout the night, creating a lasting memento of your Derby experience.
Dessert Stations
Treat yourself to a decadent dessert station, where an irresistible array of sweets awaits, offering the perfect grand finale to your evening.
Live Band with roaming Master of Ceremonies
The night comes alive with a live band filling the air with electrifying energy, while a roaming Master of Ceremonies keeps the festivities flowing, ensuring an engaging and dynamic atmosphere from start to finish.
Red Carpet Entry
Step into the spotlight with a red carpet entry, setting the tone for an exclusive evening of elegance and excitement.
2026 Celebrity Chefs Include:
Aaron May
Aaron May
Bullseye Event Group Executive Chef and Culinary Director
Featured Dish: Mint Julep Glazed Pork Chop Bites
Damaris Phillips
Damaris Phillips
Food Network Personality and American Chef
Featured Dish: Kentucky Benedictine on Aged Gouda Gougères
Marc Murphy
Marc Murphy
Television Personality, Executive Chef, and Restauranteur
Featured Dish: French Onion Patty Melts
Shota Nakajima
Shota Nakajima
Japanese-American Chef, TV Personality, and James Beard Semifinalist
Featured Dish: Kanpachi Handrolls
Antonia Lofaso
Antonia Lofaso
Celebrated Chef, Restaurateur, and Media Personality
Featured Dish: Seared Filet
Rocco Dispirito
Rocco Dispirito
James Beard Award-Winning American Chef and Food Network Personality
Featured Dish: Shrimp Puttanesca
Anthony Vitolo
Anthony Vitolo
Executive Chef and Celebrity‑Favorite Restaurateur
Featured Dish: Penne Antonio
Robert Lopez
Robert Lopez
Award-Winning Event Culinary Engineer and Current Churchill Downs Senior Executive Chef
Featured Dish: Sorghum Glazed Pork Belly
Secured Travel Plans
Your Accommodation
Enhance your Derby experience with a 1-night stay at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown.
1-Night Accommodations
Check-in:
Thursday, April 30th
Check-out:
Friday, May 1st
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Located just minutes away from 4th Street Live, this state-of-the-art hotel offers complimentary hot breakfast, on-site self service laundry, and spacious guest rooms.
Distance to Churchill Downs: 4.1 Miles (6.6 km)
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Breakfast included, near 4th Street Live!
Secured Travel Plans
Your Accommodation
Enhance your Derby experience with a 1-night stay at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown. Everything you need, all in one place, for a stress-free experience.
1-Night Accommodations
Check-in:
Thursday, April 30th
Check-out:
Friday, May 1st
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Located just minutes away from 4th Street Live, this state-of-the-art hotel offers complimentary hot breakfast, on-site self service laundry, and spacious guest rooms.
Distance to Churchill Downs: 4.1 Miles (6.6 km)
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown
Breakfast included, near 4th Street Live!
Have Questions for us?
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