What’s Cooking on Labor Day Weekend in DC

Crab fest at Jackson 20

By Olga Boikess

Labor Day weekend offers a fleeting opportunity to enjoy DC summer attractions, free outdoor concerts and old-fashioned parades. The long weekend is a great time to cool out with family and friends. Whatever your plans, you and your gang are sure to get hungry. Worry not, whether it’s delivering dinner on the Mall, hosting a crab fest, or preparing mouthwatering take-home platters, area restaurants have you covered.

Hill Country: The Penn Quarter Texas themed roadhouse will be dishing up its low-and-slow-smoked meats and homey sides all weekend. What’s more, it will deliver meals to the Mall where there will be a free concert by the National Symphony Orchestra on Sunday night. Check out the menu here. No need to haul your picnic around all day, just get out the cell phone and dial (202-556-2050).

Jackson 20: This Old Town New American will bring a taste of the Eastern Shore close to home with a traditional crab boil, featuring Chesapeake crustaceans, steamed clams and oysters (both stuffed and shucked), along with potatoes, corn and coleslaw. Held in the restaurant’s courtyard on Sunday, September 2, from 6:30- 9PM, the feast costs $45, with beer and cocktails for an additional charge. Buy tickets here (703-842-2790).

Society Fair: Cathal Armstong’s high-end Old Town food emporium and wine bar is offering take-home family BBQ packages, cooked and ready to reheat on your grill. Ribs, smoked pork shoulder, spicy sausage, sauces, cornbread, baked beans, salads, peach cobbler, and more - it’s all there. The feast for four costs $100, while parties of six to eight will cost $175. Allow 48 hours notice before your pickup time (703-683-3247).