SCRANTON, Pa. — The cases at Southside Seafood on Pittston Avenue in Scranton are stocked with fish, shrimp, clams, and more—everything needed for a Christmas Eve feast.
Staff say this is always a busy time of year.
"We have a lot of customers around this area that really enjoy the feast of the Seven Fishes, and usually customers will go right down the line and pick their seven fishes," said Stephanie Pazzaglia with Southside Seafood.
That feast costs more this year. A recent report shows Pennsylvania's 12-month grocery price increase rate is over 8%.
Customers say despite food costs, their traditions aren't changing.
"We're keeping it the same. It is what it is. For price increases and stuff like that, we are fortunate enough to continue those traditions," said Mark Totsky from Greenfield Township.
There was no line when Newswatch 16 stopped by Southside Seafood Wednesday, but staff tell us that will soon change.
"Our busiest day is usually (December) 23rd, that's the day before Christmas Eve. That's when the lines will really wrap around the building. We do open at 9 a.m., but we usually try to open our doors a little early," said Pazzaglia.
Over at National Bakery on Capouse Avenue, workers are busy baking rolls, bread, and pastries. Their store has been in holiday mode for weeks.
"To our surprise, there have been a lot of people already going out of town. Last weekend, I worked at our other location, and we had people coming in from Virginia going home and people from New York that are gearing up for the holiday with their bread and pastries," said Candace Fox, National Bakery manager.
Managers say the phones have been ringing off the hook all week with customers placing orders. But they know the real holiday rush for the bakery is near.
"I think come Saturday and Sunday, we are going to have a lot of walk-ins come in and are going to want a lot of stuff to take home. Customers always tell us our rolls and pastries make their dinners," said Fox.
Both stores say no matter where you're doing your holiday.