The Taste of Derby, one of Derby Week’s newest and most up-and-coming events, has released a partial guest list for the party.  

 

Food Network personality Bobby Flay, supermodel Nikki Taylor, child-star turned Disney Channel Diva Raven Symone, and NBC’s Today Show tag-team Al Roker and Jenna Wolfe are all scheduled to walk the red carpet.

 

The Taste of Derby celebrates its’ second year at the Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center tonight, and partial proceeds will again benefit Louisville’s own Dare to Care organization as well as other charities.

 

Sixteen chefs from fourteen Thoroughbred racing destinations across the country will show off their culinary prowess and local racing celebrities at elaborate tasting stations throughout the venue. Though the names of their delectable dishes may difficult to pronounce, they won’t be difficult to swallow.  Chefs from Chicago’s NaHa, New York’s NOBU and New Orleans' Commander's Palace restaurants are among those sharing their talents with Louisville. 

 

The food and stars won’t be the only things in the spotlight tonight. While mingling with drink in hand, (each chef station's selection is paired with a unique wine from 14 Hands Winery—and there’s an open bar too) party-goers will have the opportunity to ogle the Kentucky Derby 137 Winner’s Gold Trophy as well as the Longines watches that are presented to the winning Kentucky Derby owner, trainer and jockey. 

 

The Taste of Derby is tonight at the Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center and is open to the public. Tickets are still available and can be purchased online.  The $275 admission includes: