The Feast of the 7 Fishes is an American Christmas Eve tradition centered on a celebratory, seafood-only meal. Its roots trace back to southern Italy, where Catholics historically abstained from meat on certain holy days, opting instead for fish. Italian immigrants brought the custom to the United States, where it grew into a beloved holiday ritual—especially in Italian-American families.
Why “Seven” Fishes? There’s no single definitive explanation. Many families interpret the number symbolically—seven sacraments, seven days of creation, or the number’s frequent appearance in the Bible. In practice, the feast can have seven dishes, or nine, eleven, even thirteen—each family chooses its own meaning and menu.
Capitol Market hosted its first-ever Feast of the Seven Fishes Dinner tonight — a one-night-only celebration of food, family, and festivity brought to life by James Beard–nominated chef Chase Collier and the acclaimed team from Ristorante Abruzzi.
Course 1
Oyster RockefellerSpinach, gruyere, panko
Course 2
Blackened ScallopSweet corn puree, crispy pancetta
Course 3
Lump Crab SaladLemon, dill, chives, crusty focaccia
Course 4
CioppinoMussels, clams, shrimp, squid, spicy tomato brodo
Course 5
Parmesan Herb Crusted CodRoasted vegetables, cranberry agrodolce
Course 6
Tuna TartareCrispy capers, Dijon, shallot, citrus, Calabrian chili, spiced cracker
Course 7
CheesecakeNori crust, scallop mousse, Swedish fish reduction
Gift from the chef
BrigadeirosBrazilian fudgy ball
