🍝 Pop-Up Italian Menu Ideas
(With a Louisville Twist!)
1. Appetizer:
Bourbon-Infused Bruschetta
- Toasted ciabatta topped with tomato-basil relish + a drizzle of Kentucky bourbon reduction.
2. Pasta:
Hot Brown Ravioli 🧀🔥
- Cheese-stuffed pasta with turkey, crispy bacon, and mornay sauce—a nod to Louisville’s iconic Hot Brown!
3. Main:
Kentucky Bourbon Braised Short Ribs
- Fall-off-the-bone ribs slow-cooked in bourbon-tomato ragù, served with creamy polenta.
4. Dessert:
Derby Tiramisu 🏇☕
- Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, bourbon-kissed mascarpone, and chocolate shavings.
🍷 Pairing Suggestions
- Local Bourbon Cocktails: Mint Juleps or an Italian Bourbon Sour (bourbon + limoncello).
- Kentucky Wine: Try a red from nearby Equus Run Vineyards.
🎉 Event Boosters
- Live Music: A local jazz or folk band to set the vibe.
- DIY Pasta Station: Let guests roll their own ravioli!
- Italian-Kentucky Fusion Decor: Checkered tablecloths + bourbon barrel centerpieces.
📣 Promote Like a Pro
- Hashtags: #LouisvilleEatsItalian #PopUpPasta
- Collabs: Partner with local bakeries (like Please & Thank You) for bread or desserts.
- Secret Ingredient: Mention a “limited-time Derby-inspired dish” to drive FOMO!
Will this be a ticketed dinner or à la carte? Need help with recipes or logistics? Let me know—I’ll tailor it further! 😊
Louisville + Italian food = A match made in culinary heaven! 🎻🍴