This Major – Safer – Holiday Tradition Is Returning to DC

Cleveland Park’s Medium Rare restaurant will host its 17th annual Free Turkey Fry on Thanksgiving Day (November 28th) from 10am to 4 pm at the restaurant’s location at 3500 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC 20008 — steps from the Red Line’s Cleveland Park metro station.

Free Turkey Fry? This major Thanksgiving Day tradition, open to anyone who brings a thawed, eight-to-12-pound bird with them, is a super boon for those who want to avoid the hassles and potential danger of turkey frying on their own. Many who take advantage of the annual event are recipients of free turkeys — but even if you bought your own yet lack the skill, confidence, or tools to cook it — all are welcome.

This year, Medium Rare co-owner Mark Bucher estimates they’ll fry up to 600 turkeys (approximately 96 birds an hour) using a dozen fryers filled with almost 500 gallons of oil.  

In years past, the line started forming at 8 am, but don’t worry, Medium Rare promises they will get to everyone. 

And if you do still want to try frying at home, Bucher gave us these suggestions:

• Place a deep fryer at least 10 feet from your house to reduce fire risk.
• Opt for peanut oil due to its higher ignition point.
• Ensure your turkey is fully thawed and at room temperature to prevent oil splatters caused by frozen moisture.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
• Wear snug-fitting, non-flammable clothing, including long sleeves, grilling mitts, and safety goggles to protect against hot oil splatters.
• Utilize an instant-read meat thermometer to make sure the turkey reaches 165 degrees in the breast, wing, and thigh.

In recent years, the Free Turkey Fry has also become a fundraiser for Feed the Fridge, the non-profit Bucher started to provide free, nutritious, restaurant-prepared meals to those who need them. Since its launch at the beginning of the COVID pandemic, Feed the Fridge has provided more than a million meals and has paid local restaurants $2 million in donated funds to prepare them.