Business
Churchill Downs Racetrack Announces the Official Menu for the 152nd Kentucky Derby®
For the third year in a row, Head Chef Robert Lopez crafts a new lineup of delectable spring-forward race-day dishesLOUISVILLE, Ky., March 3, 2026
About this update from Churchill Downs, Incorporated
[{"type":"text","content":"For the third year in a row, Head Chef Robert Lopez crafts a new lineup of delectable spring-forward race-day dishesLOUISVILLE, Ky., March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Churchill Downs Racetrack (\"Churchill Downs\") and hospitality partner Levy Restaurants (\"Levy\") released the official menu for the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby® presented by Woodford Reserve. The menu features Louisville-inspired classics and contemporary variations to enjoy while basking in the celebration of the Kentucky Derby®, Saturday, May 2.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nThe Kentucky Derby® is a premier sporting event where storied tradition meets modern culture, and the 2026 menu reflects that intersection. Chef Robert Lopez, Senior Executive Chef for Levy Restaurants and Head Chef at Churchill Downs, is focusing on serving up fresh flavors to commemorate the weekend from start to finish with an elevated menu that promises to delight fans of every taste. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and locally inspired dishes like chicken paired with roasted peach chutney and Kentucky BBQ shrimp.\"Churchill Downs is always committed to honoring its iconic traditions, and this year I'm coming to the table with familiar elements along with some exciting culinary twists,\" said Chef Lopez. \"The menu for the 152nd 'Run for the Roses®' features flavors that will be recognizable to returning guests, including delectable honey bourbon sauces and brown sugar caramelization, while incorporating surprise components to ensure on-track diners are immersed in the full experience.\"Churchill Downs will also be offering an array of artisanal cocktails for guests to sip on as they enjoy \"The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®.\"In addition to the official menu and cocktail selections, Churchill Downs will welcome several celebrity chefs including Akhtar Nawab, Damaris Phillips, Fabio Viviani, Leah Cohen, Lorena Garcia, Rodney Scott, and Tristen Epps to serve exclusive culinary offerings in select dining areas throughout the racetrack for guests in Club SI by Sports Illustrated, Spires Terrace, Turf Club, and more.For more information, including recipes and images for the official menus, please visit https://www.kentuckyderby.com/recipes/cat/official-derby-menu/. To learn more about this year's race or purchase tic...