Congress has cut federal funding for public media — a $3.4 million loss for LAist. We count on readers like you to protect our nonprofit newsroom. Become a monthly member and sustain local journalism.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
How To Eat And Drink Well While Watching The Belmont Stakes

This weekend the Belmont Stakes will be taking place in New York, and while many Angelenos might find the Clippers or Dodgers to be more of an engaging watch, this thoroughbred race is worth to tuning in to. A hometown hero of a horse from Orange County named California Chrome could make serious history this Saturday. Only 11 horses have swept the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont in the same year—also known as The Triple Crown. And he's well on his way.
What's more is that 3-year-old colt was purchased for a mere $8k, a pittance compared to most racehorses.
The race will screen at approximately 3:52 p.m., so plan accordingly. Here are some of the best spots to watch the action:
The Chandelier Room at Santa Anita Racetrack: Undoubtedly the premiere destination to watch the races, the newly revamped Chandelier Room is truly a slice of California history. The stunning art deco space was originally built in 1934, but it opened back up again this season after a sprucing up from Avroko Design -- the same folks who designed Faith & Flower in DTLA. For the Belmont Stakes, they're brining in an all star lineup of Mozza alums including chef Christopher Feldmeier and David Rosoff, who will be complimentary California wine tasting in honor of the local contender. Nathan Oliver (The Vagrancy Project, Harvard & Stone, ink) will be shaking up cocktails, too. Rock your favorite sundress and big floppy hat or a bow tie and prepare for a proper day at the races. You can purchase tickets here. Use the discount code CHANDELIER and they're $75. The party goes from 12 - 8 p.m.
Bludso's Bar And Que: Always a fan of food and sporting events, Bludso's will be screening the races on their many flat screens throughout the restaurant. Their mint juleps on tap are particularly of interest, given the nature of the sport. And they do go particularly well with their killer 'que, our favorites of which -- the brisket and ribs -- tend to sell out, so order early. Don't forget to have some collards on the side, and toast with a California craft brew for good luck. You can find out their vitals here.
Plan A Cali-Themed Viewing Party: Unlike many of our local sports teams, you can actually watch the race on NBC, which means it's the perfect opportunity to bust out your summer wear and host a cocktail party. Here are some resources to get your party stocked:
How To Make The Perfect Mint Julep
How To Picnic Like a Pro
How To Pair California Craft Beer With BBQ
Entertaining Tips From An A-List Party Planner
As Editor-in-Chief of our newsroom, I’m extremely proud of the work our top-notch journalists are doing here at LAist. We’re doing more hard-hitting watchdog journalism than ever before — powerful reporting on the economy, elections, climate and the homelessness crisis that is making a difference in your lives. At the same time, it’s never been more difficult to maintain a paywall-free, independent news source that informs, inspires, and engages everyone.
Simply put, we cannot do this essential work without your help. Federal funding for public media has been clawed back by Congress and that means LAist has lost $3.4 million in federal funding over the next two years. So we’re asking for your help. LAist has been there for you and we’re asking you to be here for us.
We rely on donations from readers like you to stay independent, which keeps our nonprofit newsroom strong and accountable to you.
No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, press freedom is at the core of keeping our nation free and fair. And as the landscape of free press changes, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust, but the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news from our community.
Please take action today to support your trusted source for local news with a donation that makes sense for your budget.
Thank you for your generous support and believing in independent news.

-
Censorship has long been controversial. But lately, the issue of who does and doesn’t have the right to restrict kids’ access to books has been heating up across the country in the so-called culture wars.
-
With less to prove than LA, the city is becoming a center of impressive culinary creativity.
-
Nearly 470 sections of guardrailing were stolen in the last fiscal year in L.A. and Ventura counties.
-
Monarch butterflies are on a path to extinction, but there is a way to support them — and maybe see them in your own yard — by planting milkweed.
-
With California voters facing a decision on redistricting this November, Surf City is poised to join the brewing battle over Congressional voting districts.
-
The drug dealer, the last of five defendants to plead guilty to federal charges linked to the 'Friends' actor’s death, will face a maximum sentence of 65 years in prison.