Feeding and hydrating 150,000 fans on Derby day at the Kentucky Derby is no small feat. Levy, the concessionaire in charge of the food and beverage operations, treats this task as a monumental challenge that requires meticulous planning and flawless execution. With a track record of hosting events such as the Emmy Awards and the Super Bowl, Levy CEO Andy Lansing acknowledges that the scale of the Kentucky Derby poses a unique degree of difficulty that sets it apart from other events.
The success of the culinary operations at the Kentucky Derby relies heavily on the expertise and skill of the 5,000 staff members on-site. This includes approximately 300 chefs and support personnel recruited from various locations across the country. Lansing emphasizes the need for a perfect blend of finesse and muscle when catering to the needs of hundreds of thousands of spectators. The staff must be capable of delivering restaurant-quality food at a rapid pace to meet the demands of the event.
Churchill Downs presents a logistical puzzle due to the premium-heavy nature of the event. With 90,000 fans in premium areas and 60,000 in general admission, Levy must cater to a diverse range of culinary preferences. The 40 different premium spaces, divided into three tiers, each offer unique dining experiences that require careful consideration. The menus must reflect the exclusivity of the spaces while ensuring that all guests are treated to a memorable culinary experience.
The menus at the Kentucky Derby are carefully curated to showcase the local flavors of Kentucky while offering a diverse range of dishes that appeal to a broad audience. From smoked brisket to seafood burgoo and Wagyu prime rib to bourbon cherry brisket burnt ends, the culinary options at the Derby are both sophisticated and approachable. Special attention is paid to creating dishes that can be prepared at scale without compromising on quality.
No discussion of the Kentucky Derby would be complete without mentioning the iconic mint julep. Served in staggering quantities, this classic cocktail is a staple at the event, with approximately 110,000 mint juleps consumed on Derby day alone. Anchored by Woodford Reserve whiskey, simple syrup, and mint, the mint julep is a favorite among spectators and adds to the festive atmosphere of the event.
Levy works closely with over 20 local farmers to source the ingredients needed for the Derby, including the essential mint used in the mint juleps. This commitment to supporting local producers adds a unique touch to the culinary offerings and ensures the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Collaboration with local farmers and suppliers contributes to the overall success of the food and beverage operations at the Derby.
The culinary challenge of feeding the masses at the Kentucky Derby requires a combination of meticulous planning, expert execution, and a deep understanding of the logistics involved. Levy’s dedication to delivering a world-class dining experience to thousands of spectators is evident in the diverse menus, local collaborations, and iconic beverages that define the event. As the Derby continues to evolve and grow, the culinary team at Levy remains committed to excellence and innovation in their approach to feeding the crowds at this historic and iconic event.