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How To Eat And Drink Well While Watching The Belmont Stakes
Photo by Krista Simmons/LAist
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
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You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our nonprofit newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our communities. We are free to follow facts wherever they lead and to hold power to account without fear or favor. Our only loyalty is to our readers and listeners and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen Southern California’s communities.
If this story helped you, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
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