Agoura's Tavern 101 Providing Free Christmas Eve Meals

AGOURA HILLS, CA — “One thing my grandmother told me is if you give, it’s gonna come back,” said Marco Gonzalez, owner of Tavern 101 in Agoura Hills.

Gonzalez’s grandmother taught him well: on Thursday from 12-5, Tavern 101 will be distributing hundreds of free meals to anyone that requests them. Anyone from anywhere can simply show up, no questions asked, to receive a full meal of smoked turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, corn, and cornbread. 250 people have already called in, and Gonzalez hopes to serve around 600.

“I know we’re going through this coronavirus thing and I know a lot of people are having a lot of difficulty because the government hasn’t provided anything to help the American people out, so I just thought it was a good gesture - anybody in need can get a complete dinner,” said Gonzalez, who noted that despite his own restaurant struggling through a pandemic, he felt like this was the right thing to do.

This is not the first time Gonzalez has helped the community during a time of personal hardship. After his Agoura Hills house was damaged in the Woolsey Fire and he and his family had to live in a hotel for a year, he still provided free meals for first responders who had helped fight the fire. He also provided free Thanksgiving meals to anyone affected by the Woolsey Fire, and his restaurant still provides regular free meals to the sheriff and fire departments, and to veterans on Memorial and Veterans Day.

Outside that, Gonzalez has actively supported local schools, sports, and the YMCA in Agoura Hills.

“Anybody who comes to me and needs a donation or sponsorship - I never say no,” he said. His grandmother would be proud.

To receive a free meal, visit Tavern 101 today from 12-5 at 28434 Roadside Dr., Agoura Hills.