Wednesday evening marks the start of Yom Kippur, Judaism’s Day of Atonement. Those observing the holiday will begin fasting at sundown before Kol Nidre services, continuing through Thursday evening. It’s common to gather with family or friends for a pre-fast meal, but Downtown workers putting in a full day at the office will have little time to make it home for dinner to fill up before attending services.

Thus, DCist offers you our Yom Kippur pre-fast meal guide. Services around the city are paired with a nearby restaurant to grab a final nosh before fasting begins. Menu suggestions follow tried and true pre-fast meal tips where possible. Complex carbohydrates are your best friend; mix in some protein; keep things light (eg. chicken over beef); go easy on salt to avoid dehydration.

*Asterisk denotes services that are most welcoming of walk-ins. See individual websites for more information.

Fabrangen (egalitarian/participatory 6:00)*
Restaurant: Java Green
A D.C. High Holidays institution, this havurah offers no cost, no ticket/no reservation required services every year. Services are at The United Church in Foggy Bottom as their normal YK home at the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church undergoes renovations. That puts the service just blocks from Java Green, where the Asian-inspired faux meats, organic wraps, and raw salads fit perfectly with the progressive community. Or you’re welcome to join the Fabrangen leadership at Bertucci’s for their 4:30 p.m. reservation.
YK Eats Pick: Kelp Jobche—kelp noodles with shitake mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach ($11.00).

Photo by Bonnie Shulman