There are few more sociable events on the sporting calendar than a day at the races. A trip to a local racecourse enables friends and family to meet up and spend the day together while taking in high-quality sporting action and simply enjoying each other’s company.

For many, fashion is a reason to go to the races, as it presents the perfect opportunity to get dressed to the nines. However, for the vast majority, it is all about trying new things, and this includes examining local dishes that may not be widely available back in your home state or city.

But what are some of the most iconic dishes that can be found at some of the USA’s most legendary racetracks?

Glamorous Dining at Del Mar

Del Mar has links to Hollywood royalty, as it was founded in partnership by Bing Crosby. Therefore, it is no surprise that visitors can have a taste of the high life on their trip to the Californian track.

One of the finest restaurants anywhere in the state can be found at the idyllic location, as Il Palio is a must-visit for any fan who is looking to eat at the highest table on their trip to the races.

Reservations are required to get a table, especially during the big events on the schedule. But, there is something for everyone at this luxury eating spot on the coast, as the menu includes meat, fish, and pasta dishes to die for.

The Belmont Jewel

There are few more important horse races bets to place on the calendar than that of the final leg of the Triple Crown. In recent years, the Belmont Stakes has been run at Saratoga due to work being completed at Belmont Park, but the traditions of the race have remained intact over the last two editions.

Therefore, for those attending the True Test of a Champion, a Belmont Jewel must be tested. The drink is a cocktail that is widely on offer at the track during Belmont Stakes day, and it furthers the tradition that all Triple Crown races should have a signature drink.

The refreshing mix of ingredients ensures that is cools down Racegoers on a sunny day at the track, with the drink including lemonade, pomegranate juice, and of course, bourbon. For those not lucky enough to be attending the day at the races, it is also extremely easy to make at home.

Cool Down With Ice Cream

While many Racegoers will be busy at the bars and testing out all the available signature cocktails, it is always important to stay cool during a day at the races.

That is especially the case for those in attendance at Californian tracks such as Del Mar and Santa Anita where the temperatures could reach high figures. Del Mar is one of the best racing locations for ice cream, with a world-famous soft serve ice cream stand located on the clubhouse floor.

Meanwhile, visitors that have more expensive seats can find another stand on the second floor at the course. Ice cream and Del Mar go hand-in-hand, and that was perfectly illustrated last year at the course when a horse called Iscreamuscream won the featured G1 Del Mar Oaks in front of a jam-packed crowd.

Mint Julep

There are few more iconic days on the horse racing schedule than the Kentucky Derby. The USA’s most famous race captures the attention of the entire world, with millions tuning in to watch the event.

It is one of the rare events on the racing schedule that attracts the non-racing crowd, and that typically sees betting purses reaching record highs. Eating and drinking is a big part of the day at Churchill Downs. Therefore, it is no surprise that a Mint Julep has almost become as famous as the race itself.

The drink is a symbol of the Derby, and it has a rich history in the south of the States. The drink includes bourbon, and is made with four mint sprigs, one teaspoon of sugar, and two teaspoons of water. If you’re heading to the Derby, then you must have a Mint Julep to complete the experience.

Derby Pie

If the Mint Julep isn’t enough, the Kentucky Derby also has a food named after it, as the Derby Pie was created by the Melrose Inn back in 1954. The dish includes pie dough, eggs, butter, and occasionally syrup and chocolate.

The pie has an interesting history, and it was trademarked by Kern’s Kitchen in 1968. However, if you’re looking to try the exact pie, then you will need to head to Kentucky, as the official ingredients that are used to create the masterpiece are kept top secret. But, it is the perfect dish to round off a day at Churchill Downs.