There will be few more popular horse racing events on the calendar to attend this year than the Breeders’ Cup. The two-day season-ending meet will be staged for the first of two consecutive years at Del Mar in 2024, with the world’s best equine stars set to compete for some eye-watering purses across the turf and dirt.
There is expected to be an international feel to the event this year, with visitors likely to travel to California from across Europe and Asia to see the world’s best thoroughbreds in action. But, away from the track, what are some of the foods that you should experience while you’re in the local area? Don’t forget to check the TwinSpires.com betting guide here.
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Mexican Food
There is little doubt that the Mexican options will be a popular choice among international visitors, as there is a strong influence on the food from the region across California. That is highlighted by the number of dining options that can be found at Del Mar that specialise in Mexican food.
The Veranda Café will be a popular option at the track, and it can be found on the second floor. However, the most popular option among those looking for their Mexican fit while taking in the racing can be found in the paddock in the form of 17 Hands. This restaurant has some of the best street tacos in the whole region.
Aside from main meals, there is also a breakfast burrito that can be enjoyed at Roberto’s, which can be found in Solana Beach or south of the town at Carmel Valley Road. For the unique experience of living the California life, there is few better cuisines to test out while in Del Mar than the large range of Mexican street vendors.
Test Out Local Dishes
California mixes a range of cuisines due to the difference in backgrounds that can be found in the region. Therefore, it is well worth all visitors to Del Mar this year to get out and try something new when they are away from the Breeders’ Cup action on track. Cioppino is a must-try for all international visitors, and it originates from North Beach in San Francisco.
This hearty stew was first eaten in the region in the 1800s, and it is as popular in the modern day as it has ever been. For lunch, visitors could try a Los Angeles-favourite in the form of the French Dip Sandwich. It was invented in the 20th century, and features thinly sliced beef with cheese, onions, and a dipping container of beef broth.
If you have a sweet tooth, a favoured desert option comes in the form of Rocky Road. While the treat originates from Australia, California has made attempts to make sure it can be claimed. The American style is very common across the region of California, and the ice cream flavour is a must-try if you are looking for a treat after a good day at the track.
Test Out Del Mar Signatures
No trip to the racecourse is complete with testing out the speciality drinks that are on offer, and Del Mar is no different. The California track boasts a healthy range of speciality cocktails, with the most popular coming in the form of Del Margarita. This drink includes a double shot of Tequila, and features a splash of patron, tres agaves, orange juice, and soda water.
That isn’t the only option to wash down your food by any means, with another popular drinking option including the Make Your Mule and Summer Breeze. The former has a double premium shot of bourbon or vodka and is completed with ginger beer and a lime wedge.
Meanwhile, the Summer Breeze could be the most popular option on a hot day, with the drink consisting of a double shot of vodka, a splash of pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and an orange wedge. Visitors shouldn’t be afraid to mix and match, as further signature drinks can be found in the forms of the Blood Orange Smash and Del Spritz.
Take Advantage Of Del Mar Deals
Del Mar does an excellent job of tailoring to its crowd, and that can be found by the sheer number of deals that can be taken advantage of at the track. Away from the Breeders’ Cup, fans can take advantage of Free & Easy Thursdays, as free admission, as well as a free program is available for all visitors.
Del Mar Friday always attracts big crowds, with Happy Hour Friday running until 5pm, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase signature drinks for half of the prize. As well as this, there is an excellent beer offer for racing fans, with visitors able to pick six Michelob Ultras or Pacifico’s for the price of five. However, it remains to be seen whether these offers will be available for the two-day Breeders’ Cup meeting.
