As Churchill Downs and NBC continue to push back the start times of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, it slices into the dinner hour and costs restaurateurs significant sales. Talk that the Derby will one day be run under the lights only makes things worse.
(Geez, the idea that so many drunks in the infield will have that much more time to party is a frightening notion all on its own.)
A couple of decades ago, Oaks and Derby crowds were arriving ready to eat no later than 6:30 p.m., and now that time is closer to 7:45 p.m.
To fill that lull, John Varanese, chef-owner of Varanese, began offering a steal of a deal a couple of years ago to diners who wanted to eat earlier. Dubbed “Beat the Odds,” the $50 per couple, limited menu is served between 5 and 6 p.m. only on Derby eve and Derby night.
According to Varanese, just in that hour alone, the restaurant will feed about 70 guests dining off that menu. Do the math, factor in some booze sales and you’ll recognize a smart operator who’s turned a real challenge into a real revenue stream.
The $50 price doesn’t include adult beverages, tax or gratuity, but when you look at the menu below, you’ll see there’s hardly a better bargain in town.
To make reservations, call 502-899-9904 or emailing letsdine@varanese.com.
“Beat the Odds” menu
CHOICE OF SALADS
- Mixed Baby Greens, Sliced Cucumbers, Shaved Red Onions and Grape Tomatoes Drizzled with Caramelized Onion Vinaigrette
- Crispy Romaine Lettuce tossed with Creamy Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Dressing topped with Fried Polenta Croutons
CHOICE OF ENTREES
- Grilled salmon smothered in a caramelized mandarin orange bourbon sauce served over cream cheese grits
- Sautéed beef tips and tortellini tossed in a rich gorgonzola cream sauce, baby spinach, grape tomatoes and toasted pine nuts topped with crispy prosciutto
- Spice rubbed bourbon barrel smoked boneless pork chop topped with an apple-bacon chutney served with gratin potato
DESSERT
- Small Bites Trio
