National Oysters Rockefeller Day

Celebrate the rich flavors of Oysters Rockefeller, a true American classic.

JAN10

Sunday, January 10Every year on January 10

days to go

Roots: New Orleans, Louisiana
Vibe: Sophisticated coastal dining
Also on Jan 10: Vision Board Day · Save the Eagles Day · Cut Your Energy Costs Day
Hashtag: #NationalOystersRockefellerDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Bake a batch

Top oysters with spinach and breadcrumbs, then broil.

WITH FRIENDS

Seafood night out

Hit an oyster bar with friends and order a dozen.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Fancy lunch order

Treat the team to oysters or a seafood lunch.

Plan ahead

National Oysters Rockefeller Day is observed on January 10 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Jan 10this year

2027Sun, Jan 10

2028Mon, Jan 10

2029Wed, Jan 10

2030Thu, Jan 10

2031Fri, Jan 10

2032Sat, Jan 10

2033Mon, Jan 10

2034Tue, Jan 10

2035Wed, Jan 10

2036Thu, Jan 10

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Fast facts

1889Created in 1889

Named after John D. Rockefeller

The story

Oysters Rockefeller, a dish that graces menus from fine dining establishments to casual seafood shacks, first emerged in New Orleans in the 1880s. Legend has it that it was created by Chef Jules Alciatore at Antoine's Restaurant, where it was designed to mimic the richness of the famous financier John D. Rockefeller. This luxurious dish features oysters on the half shell, baked with a decadent topping of butter, herbs, and breadcrumbs, often enhanced with a splash of anise or Pernod.

Read the full story

The name 'Rockefeller' signifies more than just the dish's opulence; it embodies a cultural moment in American culinary history where seafood became a centerpiece of celebratory dining. Over the years, variations of the dish have sprouted across the nation, each chef adding their own twist to the classic recipe. Today, Oysters Rockefeller can be found in many forms, from traditional to modern interpretations that reflect regional tastes and ingredients.

On National Oysters Rockefeller Day, enthusiasts gather to pay homage to this delightful seafood dish. Restaurants often promote special menus featuring Oysters Rockefeller, inviting patrons to indulge in its rich flavors. Home cooks also join the celebration, attempting to recreate the dish in their kitchens, often with family and friends, fostering a sense of connection over shared meals.

As we celebrate this iconic dish, we honor its roots in New Orleans and its rise to fame across the United States. Oysters Rockefeller is not just a dish; it's a testament to the creativity and spirit of American cuisine, blending classic techniques with local ingredients. So this January 10, whether enjoyed in a bustling restaurant or a cozy home kitchen, Oysters Rockefeller remains a beloved symbol of culinary excellence.