LOUISVILLE, Ky. — With less than a month until the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs, some Louisville restaurant owners and chefs are raising concerns about a major change to this year’s race.
What You Need To Know
For the first time, the Kentucky Oaks will run in primetime, with an 8:40 p.m. post time on race day.
Louisville restaurant owners and chefs say the late start could keep crowds from dining out after the race, cutting into one of their busiest weeks of the year.
Churchill Downs says the primetime move will expand the race’s national audience and create opportunities for new traditions.
Some restaurants are already noticing changes in reservation patterns, with more bookings earlier in Derby week and concerns that guests may not realize how late the Oaks race starts.
For nearly 18 years, Chef Allen Hubbard Sr. has served meals at Martini Italian Bistro in Louisville.
“It’s kind of like ancient times for a chef, but I love this place and it’s a good fit,” said Hubbard, the restaurant’s executive chef.
He knows the 152nd Kentucky Oaks is approaching — and that, for the first time, it will take place in primetime.
“It’s terrible. It’s terrible. The Oaks post time is 8:40. The sun’s already set. I think the sun is setting at 8:34. Imagine you’ve got all those thousands and thousands of people and the sun’s already going down and you’re watching the last race,” Hubbard said. “By the time they get to this area, they’re going home. Nobody’s coming out to eat at that time of night unless you’re going to White Castle or Waffle House.”
Hubbard said he understands the business decision but remains concerned about the broader impact.
“I just feel for the whole industry. There are so many jobs and people that will be affected by this decision. I don’t agree with it, but it’s not my decision,” he said. “We just have to adapt and overcome. We’ll be alright, but it hurts.”
Earlier this week, Churchill Downs addressed the move to primetime.
“We couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity. Being on national television in the 8 o’clock hour helps elevate the Kentucky Oaks and acts like an hour-long preview of the Kentucky Derby the next day,” said Darren Rogers, senior director of communications for Churchill Downs. “The Derby week has an economic impact of more than $420 million. Adjustments will happen, but this is a great opportunity for new traditions.”
In a statement, Churchill Downs Inc. Senior Director of Communications Breck Thomas-Ross said the change aims to reach a broader audience and boost visibility for the event, the Derby Festival, Louisville, and Kentucky. The company also said it is working with the Kentucky Restaurant Association to support local restaurants during Derby week.
Other Louisville restaurants are also expressing concern.
“Jack Fry’s is disappointed with how Churchill Downs rolled out the late post time. This feels like a new normal where the community isn’t being considered,” said Morgan Polson, assistant general manager of Jack Fry’s. “Restaurants are already being affected. If guests aren’t informed about the late start, they may miss reservations altogether, leading to frustration.”
Hubbard said Martini Italian Bistro plans to adapt by hosting its own Oaks Day event.
“We’re doing an Oaks broadcast here — offering a special dinner menu where guests can come in and watch the races,” he said.
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