The annual “Taste of Derby Festival” celebrated its 27th year with delicious local food for a charitable Kentucky cause. Sponsored by Brown-Forman Corporation, the event is one of the most popular events of the Kentucky Derby Festival and the largest fundraising event for Dare to Care Food Bank.
“Dare to Care has been in the community for over 40 years, and we collect food and money donations. We use the money donations to purchase more food, and, through our over 200 community partners, distribute that right back into the community,” said Annette Ball, the Programs Director of Dare to Care.
“Through that network, we are able to distribute 16 million pounds of food every year into 13 different counties— five in Southern Indiana and eight in Kentucky. So, all the food and money that is raised in those 13 counties, stays in those 13 counties. This is our largest fundraiser which brings in over $100,000. And we take all that money that is donated and it goes straight to food,” Ball said.
In return for buying an $80 ticket, attendees at Slugger Field last night were met with an overwhelming array of food and spirits samples from more than 50 Louisville eateries, many of which have perfected regional fare with an upscale twist.
I had a number of favorites, but let’s just say, Upper Crust catering had me at “hot brown.”
Louisville made, Kentucky proud wine from Old 502 Winery.
Early Times Bourbon
Bourbon Barrel Foods
Another favorite-- Kentucky Burgoo and cream cheese grits from Bristol Bar and Grille
Aww Shucks-- Sweet corn ice cream from The Comfy Cow.
Braised pork belly with bacon jam (pork on pork...yum) with Brussels sprout slaw on a cheddar biscuit from Craft House in Crescent Hill
Lobster hush puppies with lemon hollandaise, blood-orange gastrique, and candied jalapenos from Bistro 1860.
Corn cakes from Napa River Grill
Chef Tyler Powell from the Silver Dollar with candied bacon and chocolate-covered Rice Krispie Treats.
Derby Pie
Silent auction offerings
