Photo via Frontier
The Kentucky Derby is upon us. For those of us who can’t make the trip to Churchill Downs to celebrate the most ‘exciting’ two minutes in sports, there are plenty of places in Chicago to don your favorite bright outfits and partake in a mint julep (or five).
Here is a list of our favorite Chicago restaurants and bars with viewing parties that are just as much about mint juleps and big hats as racing horses…
Frontier {1072 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.772.4322}
Frontier’s all-weather beer garden is a destination any day of the year, but especially this May 5th. While the race plays live, Frontier will offer classic bourbon cocktails for $8, all crafted with Maker’s Mark: Whisky Sours, Old Fashioneds, and of course, Mint Juleps. As far as snacks go, plates of fried chicken and sides will clock in at only $12.
Photo via G&O
G&O {459 North Ogden Avenue, Chicago; 312.888.3367}
It is always a treat when an event and a holiday overlap. This year, G&O—the previous gas/service station replaced by a pub on Grand & Ogden—is celebrating both the Derby and Cinco de Mayo. Join G&O anytime between 10am- 3pm for $5 Palomas and $5 “Pink Derbys”, a cocktail crafted with bourbon, grapefruit, citrus, sugar, and a salted rim.
Photo via The Pony Inn
The Pony Inn {1638 West Belmont, Chicago; 312.453.9397}
From 3-6pm on May 5, The Pony Inn will celebrate the Kentucky Derby the right way with food and drink, live music, and contests (with prizes!). Derby-inspired fare will be on offer like Bourbon Glazed Smoked Pig, Fried Chicken, and Mac ‘N Cheese. Of course, there will be beverage specials as well: Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps, import, craft, and domestic Pints, Pony Punch cocktails, and wine. Best Dressed and Best Hat Contests will be held during the event with $100 prizes for the winners.
Photo via IO Godfrey
IO Godfrey {127 West Huron Street, Chicago; 312.374.1830}
Just when we thought this rooftop lounge in The Godfrey Hotel couldn’t get any more swanky, they are throwing a Kentucky Derby viewing party. All attendees should dress to impress as the lounge will be holding a contest for Best Dressed, Best Hat, and Best Couple. There will be a carving station and a special Derby Day menu, as well as Bourbon 101 classes from 1-4pm.
Photo via Brickhouse Tavern
Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern {3647 North Clark Street, Chicago; 773.377.4770}
Brickhouse Tavern in Wrigleyville is hosting a themed brunch: “A Day at the Races.” For $25, guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet, $15 mimosa package, and $10 drink specials including, but certainly not limited to mint juleps, old fashioneds, Belmont Jewels, and Black-eyed Susan’s.
Photo via Fremont
Fremont {15 West Illinois Street, Chicago; 312.874.7270}
As usual, Fremont is serving up surprises. For the Derby this year, Fremont is throwing a “Big Hats & Bowtie Derby Brunch.” The celebration includes a carving station, waffle bar, boozy desserts, $20 mimosa packages, and a B-Y-O Bloody Mary Bar. Kentucky Derby viewing parties are always fun, but the Fremont will give it their own little twist.
Photo via Kirkwood
Kirkwood Bar & Grill {2934 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago; 773.770.0700}
At Kirkwood, guests won’t have to choose which event or holiday to celebrate. The restaurant is offering $8 Mint Juleps all day long at Kirkwood—with their bourbon of choice: Jim Beam. The doors open at 11 AM, so if you are near Lincoln Park for either the Derby or Cinco de Mayo, stop by for their “Cinco de Derby” party.
Photo via Ranalli’s
Ranalli’s {1925 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 312.642.4700}
Ranalli’s sure knows how to adapt for when the time calls. Usually known for its pizzas, Ranalli’s has a special menu for the smash-up Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo festivities: Mint Juleps, Chips and Guacamole, Chips and Salsa, and Habanero Chicken Quesadilla.
Photo via Schoolyard Tavern
Schoolyard Tavern {3258 North Southport Avenue, Chicago; 773.528.8226}
The two most important cocktails of this May 5th will be the two most important cocktails at Schoolyard Tavern: $10 Margaritas and $10 Mint Juleps. Guests can also participate in race games and a Best Dressed Contest, and there will be a photo booth to capture the whole day.
Photo via WestEnd
WestEnd {1326 West Madison Street, Chicago; 312.981.7100}
Last but not least, WestEnd will also make sure that Chicagoans get a feel for Cinco de Derby. This shouldn’t be difficult at this bar, with 33 TVs and a grande taco bar. For only $20, guests can purchase a food and drink package, The deal starts at 3:30pm and lasts until the end of the race.
Becky Wills | Contributor
The post 9 Places to Celebrate Kentucky Derby 2018 in Chicago appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.