The Flavors of Race Day: The Classic Foods and Drinks You Must Try at the Belmont Stakes

There are few more famed sporting events on the U.S. calendar than the Belmont Stakes. The final leg of the Triple Crown regularly sees record crowds, with every viewer hoping to see history be made.

This year’s race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, and you can learn more about the contenders here: https://www.twinspires.com/belmont-stakes/contenders/.

However, history will not be made at Saratoga in 2026, as a Triple Crown winner won’t be crowned.

But, Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo and Preakness champion Napoleon Solo are both expected to take their chance in the Belmont Stakes.

Visitors passing through the gates at Saratoga this year will have a wide selection of dining options to enjoy, but what are some of the delicacies that make the Belmont Stakes so unique?

Belmont Jewel

While the Kentucky Derby may have the Mint Julep, the Belmont Stakes is famed for having its own signature cocktail. A Belmont Jewel is a must-try for all visitors at Saratoga this year, with the drink being the signature drink since replacing the Belmont Breeze in 2011.

The drink offers a robustness of American bourbon, which complements the sweet citrus of lemonade and tart berry flavoured juice. They are sold across the track, and they are also popular among those watching the race from home due to being very easy to prepare.

Belmont Breeze

The Belmont Breeze was previously the signature drink for the Belmont Stakes, before being replaced in 2011 due to sponsorship deals at the track. However, for many, it is still the beverage of choice when watching the final leg of the Triple Crown.

A Belmont Breeze is a lighter option to the Belmont Jewel, and it consists of a sophisticated mix of whiskey, cranberry juice, orange juice, and sherry. Just like the Belmont Jewel, it is a popular beverage of choice for those watching the racing from home, just as it is for those in attendance on race day.

New York Style Hot Dog

There is no better delicacy that is tailor made to a passionate New York crowd than that of a New York Style Hot Dog. This is a preferred food option for millions in the city when attending a sporting event, and going to the racing is no different.

The classic option consists of a grilled frank in a bun, before being loaded by mustard and sauerkraut. However, it could be a slight messier option for those in attendance, as the anxiety of getting sauce down your fancy racing attire could lead to a stressful ten minutes or so.

Pretzels

Just like the New York Style Hot Dog, a preferred snack for many when attending the Belmont Stakes are pretzels. These are typically commonplace at any sporting event held in the state, and they will be available across the grandstand from every vendor.

They will typically be served with warm white cheddar béchamel or whole grain mustard. While not the most filling snack, it could ensure that you have enough food in your stomach to soak up the signature cocktails available at the Belmont Stakes.

Nuchas Empanadas

One of the most popular snack options available at the Belmont Stakes are the Nuchas Empanadas. These grew in prominence after being featured on Shark Tank on U.S. television, and they are now widely acceptable at the racetrack. The delicacy was founded by Ariel Barbouth, who showcased the dish to a broad audience in the United States after moving from Argentina.

Combining Argentinean street food with international pocket-food concepts have seen the dish become globally recognised, and NYC-style concepts have become commonplace at racing events at Belmont Park, Aqueduct, and Saratoga in recent years.

Delmonico Steak

If you’re looking for something slightly more upmarket at the racing, then you will be able to get a Delmonico Steak in the premium dining areas at Saratoga during the Belmont Stakes day.

This thick, juicy cut of beef was popularized in New York City’s Delmonico restaurant, and has quickly become a popular meal choice for many attending the racing. Unlike other dining options, this will include a sit down period to enjoy the steak, but it could give those in attendance the perfect option to get some energy and also assess the race card.

Lobster Newburg

If you’re looking for a dedicated dish that is popular in the home state of the Belmont Stakes, then you can’t go wrong with trying the lobster newburg.

This rich and decadent dish is a staple in New York. It is a dish made with lobster, with the fish cooked in sherry sauce, butter, and cream. Adored by millions in the state, it is regularly found in all dining locations on Belmont Stakes day.

Marti BuckleyComment