National Eggs Benedict Day

National Eggs Benedict Day, observed annually on April 16, celebrates the indulgent breakfast and brunch dish of toasted English muffin halves, ham or Canadian bacon, poached eggs, and Hollandaise sauce. The recipe is also flexible, with variations replacing the ham with ingredients such as smoked salmon or spinach.

The history of Eggs Benedict is disputed. One account says that Wall Street broker Lemuel Benedict ordered buttered toast, poached eggs, bacon, and Hollandaise at New York City’s Waldorf Hotel in 1894. According to this version, the restaurant later added the dish to its menu, using ham and English muffins instead. Another account points to Delmonico’s and chef Charles Ranhofer, whose 1894 cookbook included a similar recipe called Eggs à la Benedick. These competing stories concern the dish—not the creation of National Eggs Benedict Day itself. The holiday’s own origin has not been documented, as a history of the observance notes.

How to Observe National Eggs Benedict Day

Celebrate by enjoying Eggs Benedict at home or ordering it for breakfast or brunch. Make the classic version with toasted English muffins, ham or Canadian bacon, poached eggs, and Hollandaise sauce, or try a variation with smoked salmon or spinach. You can also visit a local restaurant and compare its take on this saucy favorite with your homemade version.

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