I had no idea what a big deal the Kentucky Derby is to people all over the country until I saw the reaction back in 2010 when I would say “Oh, I can’t do such-and-such on that date because my business partner Michele has invited us out for the Kentucky Derby.” I learned that the experience we were to have truly was, as Michele had said, a bucket list item for many. Now I can say “Been there. Done that. Got the picture!”
It’s not often that Michele and CC and I (co-owners of more than one business) have the opportunity to be together in person. Michele worked tirelessly to make sure this get-together would be one of the most memorable we’ve ever had. We so enjoyed spending time on the patio in her backyard. Doesn’t it look inviting? And she designed it from scratch, if you can imagine!
One of the most important steps I took in preparation for the trip involved securing just the right hat. I was quite pleased with my selection. We were ready to go!
I snapped the pic at the top of the page, as well as the one above. The top one is of the actual Derby race (the horse with the rider in the purple silk won). The one above shows an earlier race taking place on the turf. I didn’t even know they did that.
As you can see, Michele’s box was right on the rail, just after the finish line. We sat down for a quick pose, but were soon on our feet for the race.
After the big race, we stopped by the house to freshen up before heading out to Lilly’s on Bardstown Road. It’s one of the best restaurants in Louisville, so Michele had made the reservations months before. It was one of Michele’s favorites at the time.
As the shadow reveals, our hats stayed with us as we went to dinner. It’s all part of the rich Derby tradition that pervades Louisville.
Did you happen to notice Duo of Belly on the menu above? I certainly did! While I had never heard of Salmon Belly before, I am quite well-acquainted with pork belly and would like to become even more well-acquainted. Smoked Salmon Belly, Crispy Pork Belly, Strawberry Demi-Glace. It called my name.
By the time we reached the restaurant, it was after 9:00 and we were almost peckish. The beef tenderloin filet with haricot verts took care of that. It was served with Nebbiolo Reduction and although I haven’t a clue what that is, I am happy to report that I liked it.
What an incredible, incredible day!
Leave a Reply