Haute Happenings: Where to Watch the Kentucky Derby in Miami

The first week of May in Miami is full of haute happenings, from the final leg of seasonal fêtes in Miami before everyone departs to Europe or New York, to Cinco de Mayo festivities, and of course, the highly-anticipated Kentucky Derby horse race. As you place your wages on the poised winner of this year’s races, make sure to watch all the action go down in haute style. Here’s where you can partake in the celebrations throughout the 305:

Bourbon Steak at Turnberry Isle

For a full-on, authentic watch party, come dressed to impressed in your Southern hats and festive attire for the 143rd Kentucky Derby ‘Run For The Roses’ watch party at Turnberry Isle Miami where you can sip on signature G.H. Mumm & Mint Juleps  and enjoy Southern-inspired canapés while watching the live action at the resort’s signature Michael Mina restaurant, Bourbon Steak. Get ready to dance to the tunes of South Florida’s premier New Orleans-style brass band, Bad Apples Brass Band and be sure to make your impression—attendees are encouraged to dress in theme, as contests will be held for the ladies’ best hat and gentlemen’s most dapper outfits during the event. Guests will get to participate in breaking the Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Champagne Toast at 5:15 p.m. alongside locations throughout the U.S., including New York City, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Record-breaking Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt will kick-off the toast with a Champagne Sabering broadcast live on NBC News. Tickets are $14.30 and can be purchased here.

Artisan Beach House

Chef Paula DaSilva’s newest restaurant, Artisan Beach House, located at the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, will be hosting a Kentucky Derby day party on Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 4-7PM in their beautiful bar and lounge. Guests can indulge in $10 Mint Julep specials, light bites and live racing coverage to keep you amidst all the action! Fun contests will include guessing the winner and “Best Hat” and prizes will be awarded. 

Stripsteak by Michael Mina

If you’re located in Miami Beach and are craving some of the famed chef’s signature cuisine with a Southern theme, head to the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel for Stripsteak by Michael Mina‘s special Kentucky Derby watch party. Guests can enjoy $5 Blanton’s Mint Juleps and complimentary canapes. Prizes for “The Best Big Derby Hat” and “The Best Dressed Man” will be presented.

Yardbird

Photo Credit: Yardbird

To celebrate in true country style, head to Miami’s famed Southern restaurant, Yardbird, famous for its fried chicken and authentic Southern bites, where you can watch the race in a festive atmosphere. There will be a 5×7 foot live mint wall for juleps & smashes and guests can enjoy mint juleps with Maker’s Mark for only $6.34 (same number as the post time) in wax-dipped julep cups. Guests also have a chance to win two basket giveaways as well as bowtie and suspender giveaways. Prizes will be awarded for the guest with the best hat and for the winning horse. And last but not least, there will be a raffle prize for an all expenses covered brunch for a party of six (value of up to $1,000).