I like Kentucky Speedway. I’ve never been to see a live race there, but I’m still a little sentimental about it. Kentucky is the home state for my maternal grandparents, and I’ve spent some time there over the last few years for work. My first encounter with Kentucky Speedway was in 2002. Mike and I were in the area for work and wanted to check it out. We parked off-road and snuck around a construction fence to take a look. It was a neat little track. The Sprint Cup Series wasn’t racing there yet, but we knew they would be.
The very first Sprint Cup Series race happened five years ago today. It popped up on my Facebook this morning as a memory. Facebook reminded me that I had made an apple pie from scratch and I was rooting for Kyle Bush. I had a bet on it and everything. Needless to say, I was pretty happy with the outcome of that one! Today I’ll be pulling for Dale, Jr., but I won’t be upset if Kyle celebrates his fifth anniversary with a win.
Most of my time in Kentucky has been in Louisville, just down the road from the track. That town is one of my favorites. The food and drinks are amazing. I’ve made some lifelong friends and eaten some life-changing meals. If you’re in Sparta for the race or visiting Kentucky any other time of year, you might want to check out a few of my favorites. Oh….and you can’t forget the bourbon…..
I know it may be strange to suggest a Latin restaurant when I live in South Texas, but this place is transcendental. The most creative and delicious ceviche I’ve ever had.
Proof is absolutely fantastic. Their menu is always changing, but I had some of the best grits and truffle fries there. Truly yummy. Their cocktail list is fun and inventive as is the dessert menu. So, so worth a trip.
Since I stayed at the Galthouse Hotel, I did some bourbon exploring at the Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar. While my friends are much better bourbon drinkers than I am, I was able to try some good bourbon flights
http://old502.com/wines/bourbon-barrel-red/
I still haven’t become a consistent bourbon drinker even after all the exposure. However, I do love red wine, and one of my all time favorites is produced in Louisville. This wine connects the bourbon influences of the area with my love of red wine. The winery has several fun wines, but the Bourbon Barrel Red is my absolute favorite!
