And….they’re off!

If you’re seeking a haute weekend vacation this summer, why not head away from LA and travel down south to take your chances at the Del Mar Races?

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club hosted its opening day celebration on July 17, which means you have nearly two months to take your chances and place your bets in this swanky seaside setting.

This year’s fete saw the arrival of 43,030 horse and hat lovers in Del Mar. Those who weren’t watching the races were sipping bubbly in the club’s VIP-only Turf Club or beautifying trackside at the BCBGeneration Style & Beauty Lounge.  Afterwards, the haute monde headed to L’Auberge Del Mar for an evening of dancing under the stars.

Though opening day only comes once a year, you can still do a day at the races in style. Luckily, we’re here to help.

STAY

The Grand Del Mar is the most stunning resort in town, and also one who happens to cater to horse lovers. The luxury resort is offering “A Day at the Races” package through Sept. 4, which includes one night’s accommodations, two stretch run reserved seats at the Del Mar Racetrack, a racing form and racing digest, transportation to and from the track, two mint juleps in the lobby lounge and overnight valet parking. The package is available Wednesday through Sunday, starting at $545 per night.

To book, call: 877-814-8472

EAT

The hautest new place in town is Sea & Smoke. The American brasserie serves gourmet bites as reinterpreted by Chef Matt Gordon. The restaurant serves mouth-watering meats, seafood and vegetables in a gorgeous setting. There’s an intimate bar area, airy outdoor patio and refined dining room for every taste, so to speak. Standout dishes include the Sea and Smoke, smoked oysters and clams with crème fraîche, squid crackers and lemon chutney, shell baked diver scallops with black olive crust as well as “blackened” yellowtail crudo with jalapeño ash, fresh lime, jicama and compressed watermelon. There are also a plethora of options for vegetarians, such as the divine Roasted Beech Mushroom with soft poached egg, salsify, smoked lentil mousse and dandelion. The innovative dishes paired with its amazing space make this new eatery a winner.

PLAY

If you’re a true VIP, you’re watching the races from the Thoroughbred Club’s illustrious Turf Club. If you’re one of the elite who’s able to gain access to the 4th-6th floors of the club, make sure you’re appropriately attired as there’s a strict dress code. “Suits or daytime dresses are preferred” for the ladies, though “slacks may be worn with a tailored jacket.” Though ties are optional for the gents, a suit or sports jacket must be worn at all times.

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