I’m Eddie Cano’s Feb. 15 Carnevale fundraiser is an effort to keep the restaurant’s doors open (Sponsored)

This article is sponsored by I’m Eddie Cano.

I’m Eddie Cano, the family-run Italian restaurant at 5014 Connecticut Avenue, will host a Venetian-themed Carnevale cocktail reception and fundraiser on Sunday, February 15th, in an effort to raise $100,000 and keep its doors open.

The fundraiser comes as the District faces a record wave of restaurant closures. According to Axios, 92 restaurants closed in the District in 2025 – the highest number on record – with 2026 on pace to lose another 100. The majority of closures have been mid-priced, family-owned neighborhood establishments like I’m Eddie Cano.

Massimo and Carolyn Papetti founded I’m Eddie Cano in 2018.

“Communities aren’t built overnight. They’re built one neighbor, one family, one shared meal at a time,” said Carolyn Papetti, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Massimo Papetti. “Since 2018, we’ve tried to be more than a restaurant – we’ve tried to be a gathering place. We’ve hosted fundraisers, brought women together through networking happy hours, and served as a home away from home for our neighbors. Now we’re asking you to show up for us.”

The Papetti family opened I’m Eddie Cano in 2018 after relocating from Italy by way of New York. Within five weeks, Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema published a favorable review, calling the restaurant “a charmer.” The restaurant received Michelin recognition in both 2019 and 2020. Then, on March 25th, 2020, DC mandated a shutdown of indoor dining – and the challenges for small restaurants have only compounded since.

Event Details:

• What: Venetian-themed Carnevale cocktail reception and fundraiser
• When: Sunday, February 15, 2026 | Live auction begins at 7 pm
• Where: I’m Eddie Cano, Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC
• Tickets (Purchase here): $49 | Includes two drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and access to auction items
• Dress: Come as you are, or dress for the occasion. Venetian masks encouraged.