It has become a tradition in downtown Grass Valley for anyone that is alone, hungry, or just wants to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in a place that feels like home. For the fifteenth year, The Old Town Cafe is once again providing a free Thanksgiving meal for anyone who needs a meal or just wants to see somebody on the holiday. Owner Robin Buckman says it has become a tradition featuring good food and good people.

Buckman says even with COVID restrictions in place, he is providing options for people to enjoy their meal at outside seating near the restaurant or they can take it to go and enjoy at home.
Over the years the number of people that take advantage of the free holiday meal has varied, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. On lighter years the restaurant serves around 350 to 400 meals, on heavier years, it has been upwards of 500.

This year Old Town Cafe is serving traditional turkey, potatoes, stuffing, green beans and bacon, cranberry sauce and rolls with apple pie for dessert. The free Thanksgiving feast takes place from 11AM to 3PM.