All Bets Were Off at Cincinnati’s Yelp-Tucky Derby Party!

As with any horse race, Yelp Cincinnati’s derby party started strong, ended strong and was exciting the whole way through!

Yelpers traveled to Blue Ash, Ohio for a little taste of derby celebration at Parkers Blue Ash Tavern, a classic horse racing inspired restaurant, while at Yelp's All Bets Are Off Derby Party. Attendees came in big hats and fine suits while enjoying derby food and drinks, downhome bluegrass live music and, yes, even a little horse racing.

“And there off,” John B announced.“Rounding turn one we find the well-dressed host and hostess to then break away from the pack and battle our way through turn two with dish after dish of amazing yummies, only to be slowed down by tasty Mint Julep but somehow manage to break away at the last second to win by a nose as we we’re serenaded by the sweet sounds of Northbound Motion. Phew!”

Parkers laid out the spread with a giant selection of both of hot and cold items. Sheila M’s favorites? “The stuffed mushrooms, pork balls, crab cakes, and hot brown! I also liked the cold offerings with fruit and veggies to round out my meat-capade, and the dessert was delightful (probably also 'sinful' in the hot brown way, but never mind that).”

In the back of the room, Parkers also had their finest bartender muddling and mixing up fresh Mint Juleps for the entire crowd. A derby treat for sure!

The real action of the night came from live horse racing!

Six lucky yelpers were turned into jockeys, each with their own horse that they named. Everyone else filled out their betting slip and cheered on their horse as dice were rolled and the jockeys advanced on the course. Fun for all!

To tap off the night, guests were serenaded by the fantastic blue grass trio styling’s of Northbound Motion, who added an incredible atmosphere to the party.

We think Ann L said it best: "I find myself building up anticipation before Elite events by wondering: What will the place look like? What games will we play? Who will be there? What will they wear? What prizes will they have? What will Alex and Cindy come up with? … And what they actually do, blows my thoughts to smithereens! Love the creativity! Col. Shebar did a fine job sporting the iconic image: white suit, string tie, and the same glasses. I wonder what his "secret recipe" is?!"

Sounds like quite the win! But don’t just take our word on the grandeur of it all, you can read all the reviews right here. You can also check out the other awesome pics by photographer extraordinaire Anamedia on the Official Yelp Flickr page.  

Till next race!

Alex S, Yelp Cincy Community Manager