kentucky derby

Sometime last week, I came to the realization that I've never had a mint julep. I decided immediately to mix up a round of cocktails. To be authentic, I wanted to serve the icy drink in silver mint julep glasses. However, finding the glasses is not easy. I searched ShopStyle. I called Williams-Sonoma, and Sur la Table. I texted my bartender buddies. To no avail. I couldn't find mint julep glasses anywhere!

Since the vessel does not affect the flavor of the drink, I made it anyway. I'm relieved I did because this classic cocktail is fantastic. With its crushed ice, fragrant mint leaves, zesty lemon syrup, and potent Bourbon, it's surprisingly refreshing and fun to drink. I highly recommend you make one to celebrate the Kentucky Derby.

If your heart is set on serving the concoction in the traditional glass, Stephen Liles, bartender at San Francisco's Boulevard restaurant, told me he got his from a local florist. To look at the recipe, read more

• Epicurious' just-launched free iPhone application makes me want to trade in my BlackBerry. — Epicurious
• Roasted beef tenderloin and cheesy baked rice is the perfect Kentucky Derby meal. — Chow
• Lavish restaurant openings have been replaced with low-key charity events. — Eater
• Top Chef judge Toby Young was recently in a face-smashing bike accident. — Eat me daily
• What is the ideal menu for serving at a bridal shower? — Simply Stated
• Gourmet's editor in chief, Ruth Reichl, goes undercover. — Serious Eats
• Troubled times call for drinks: consider mixing up a swine flu cocktail. — The Examiner

I've always wanted to be at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby, and this year is no exception — especially since the Top Chef crew will be there, cooking up a storm. But if you're like me and will only be able to watch the races from the comfort of your home this weekend, get into the spirit by making a Louisville, KY, classic: the hot brown. In case you're not familiar with it, the hot brown is a creamy, rich, hot sandwich that's made of sliced turkey, bacon, toast points, and a cheesy Mornay sauce. Many aspects of the hot brown are up for debate, from the original creator of the sandwich and the year it was conceptualized to what type of cheese ought to go on the sandwich. But what's indisputable about this sandwich is that it's insanely indulgent, and a quintessential part of Kentucky cuisine.

For a version that's easy from start to finish, employ the use of sliced, roasted turkey. Or, impress your friends by going all out with an elaborate recipe that calls for making the turkey from scratch. See both versions of the sandwich when you read more

Somehow, a themed cake makes the party. People will lick their lips at any delicious dessert, but the wonderfully thematic cake will be talked about afterwards.

This past weekend TeamSugar member eclaireassuch held a Kentucky Derby Party and created a fantastic cake to go along with it. She decorated a chocolate-nutella cake with intricate red roses — like the ones the winner wears — and topped that with a ring of horses.

After the tragic end where Eight Belles died, she knocked one of the horses over. She admits now, it was probably in poor taste. Yet, I still have to admire her creation. What do you guys think? Despite the dark humor, don't you want to just dive head first into that ring of roses?!

Let the official Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs poster inspire the look for your Kentucky Derby party. First cover the dining table in a simple white cloth. Next add splashes of color with the accessories.

Sprinkle horse and jockey confetti down the middle of the table. Bright blue plates pop against the white cloth. Red napkins contrast with the plates and match the confetti. Purple flowers are regal and festive.

If you can, splurge on authentic metal julep glasses. Add, fun novelty items — a horse stuffed animal, a book about horse racing wages — that will spark conversation among guests.

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