Meadowlands Racetrack has announced details for a number of dining events coming up at the East Rutherford, New Jersey oval, which hosts live harness racing every Friday and Saturday night at 6:35 p.m.
This Saturday, April 18, the track and Carmine’s NYC will host "Carmine’s Kitchen Takeover," a one-night dining experience honouring the legacy of the late Carmine Abbatiello. The event brings Carmine's iconic family-style dining to The Meadowlands for a special evening rooted in tradition, community and giving back.
This limited-time, pop-up will feature a Carmine’s buffet of beloved classics, offering guests the brand’s signature “big plates” in a shared, celebratory setting. The evening will also include a tribute moment and photo opportunity commemorating Abbatiello’s legacy and the connection that inspired the partnership. This dining event takes place in the third-floor restaurant PINK.
Carmine’s, founded in 1990 and named in honour of Carmine Abbatiello, has long been synonymous with generous portions, Italian-American tradition and meals meant to bring people together. This special event reflects those values while celebrating the personal connections that inspired the restaurant’s name and enduring spirit.
Dinner tickets are $54.95 plus tax, gratuity and fees, and can be purchased by clicking here. A portion of the proceeds ($20 USD per ticket) from the evening will benefit the Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program.
Meadowlands TV host Dave Little will have a special guest on the pre-game show on Saturday night, as Eric Abbatiello, son of Carmine Abbatiello, will share stories about his dad. “The Red Man,” who was chosen by the New York City Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association as its "Driver of the Half-Century," passed away on Jan. 27 at the age of 89.
Coming up in May, Meadowlands will offer Derby Day Dining on Saturday, May 2 and guests can watch and wager on Thoroughbred racing's Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs. Racetrack doors open at 9 a.m., with first race post time at Churchill Downs set for 11 a.m. Live harness racing at The Meadowlands begins at 6:35 p.m. and will feature the Dexter Cup and Lady Suffolk, while the Kentucky Derby post time is 6:57 p.m.
Reservations are required for Derby Day Dining experiences, including an outdoor Café picnic table, which cost $125 USD per four-person table, or indoor Lounge table, with ticket options of $75 USD for a bar seat, $150 USD four a two-person table, $300 USD for a four-person table or $300 USD for a three-person couch. Tickets are available for purchase by clicking here.
Pink Restaurant will open early at 4 p.m., and the buffet will begin at 4:30 p.m. The buffet is $69.95 USD plus tax and gratuity, and reservations can be made by calling 201-843-2446.
The annual Meadowlands Racetrack Burger Battle is slated for Saturday, May 9. The contest offers a $1,500 USD grand prize, with $1,000 USD for second place and $500 USD for third. There is also a $500 USD prize for the best-tasting burger patty. This free event runs from 5-11 p.m. Two lucky fans will win a spot at the judging table and help determine the top three burgers. Twenty-six food trucks are already registered for the Burger Battle.
Meadowlands Pace Night is set for Saturday, July 11 and will feature not only exciting racing but also numerous food trucks to feed hungry fans. In addition to the food and racing, there will be DJ Alx, games and other entertainment, making it a fun-filled night for the whole family.
The always-popular Seafood Festival is set for Saturday, Aug. 1, when Meadowlands will host a live harness racing card with eliminations for the Hambletonian and the Hambletonian Oaks. Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide array of delicious seafood bites and more from their favourite food trucks. This free event runs from 5-11 p.m.
The 101st running of the Hambletonian happens on Saturday, Aug. 8 and there will be numerous food trucks on site, keeping fans happily stuffed while watching a full slate of Grand Circuit stakes action.
On Saturday, Aug. 29, the annual BBQ Extravaganza will return to the track with $2,500 USD up for grabs, including $500 USD top prizes for the best brisket, chicken, pulled pork, ribs, and people’s choice. This free event runs from 5-11 p.m. Two lucky fans will win a spot at the judging table and help determine the top BBQ in each category.
Visit playmeadowlands.com for complete event details.
(With files from Meadowlands Racetrack)