The Feast of the Seven Fishes is a cherished Italian-American tradition celebrated on Christmas Eve. Rooted in Southern Italian customs, this seafood-focused feast originated as a way to honor the Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on the night before Christmas. Over time, it has evolved into a festive gathering filled with decadent seafood dishes, creative culinary takes, and time-honored recipes shared among family and friends.
For those in the Washington, DC area looking to savor this culinary tradition without stepping into the kitchen, you’re in luck. The DMV is home to numerous dining spots that offer their own delicious interpretations of the Feast of the Seven Fishes. Whether you prefer classic preparations or modern twists, you can find plenty of options that capture the spirit of this beloved holiday tradition.
Hank’s Oyster Bar
Hank’s is offering a creative Feast of the Seven Fishes menu at all locations (Dupont Circle, The Wharf, and Old Town). The three-course feast is available for dine-in only for $68 per person with an optional wine pairing for $24, and all menu items are available a la carte.
- Oysters & Caviar
- Octopus Ceviche
- Bouillabaisse with Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, & Monkfish
L’Ardente
L’Ardente’s Feast of the Seven Fishes will be offered only during dinner service from Tuesday, Dec. 17, through Tuesday, Dec, 24. This decadent, much-anticipated menu is priced at $250 for two people and includes three wine pairings selected by L’Ardente’s sommelier team.
- Salmon Cannelloni
- Alaskan King Crab
- Hamachi Crudo
- Oysters al Forno
- Scallop “Gnocchi”
- Campanelle Nere
- Red Snapper “in Crosta”
Carmine’s
Penn Quarter family-style Italian eatery, Carmine’s will offer a traditional Italian-American Christmas Eve Feast of Seven Fishes on Tuesday, December 24. The dine-in-only meal is priced at $375 and serves six to eight guests.
- Fried Calamari
- Baked Clams or Clams on the Half Shell
- Shrimp Cocktail
- Pasta with Clam Sauce
- Mixed Seafood Pasta
- Shrimp Scampi
- Salmon Oreganata
