Mario's In Hoboken Offers Free Turkey Dinners; Where To Get Meal In Jersey City

HOBOKEN, NJ — Each year, some restaurants in Hoboken and Jersey City offer a free Thanksgiving meal to those who need it. Churches and charities do as well.

"Our meals are totally free and for absolutely anyone who stops in, so if you need a meal, have no where to go, stuck in town or simply just want to come hang out," said Mario's Pizza in Hoboken this week, encouraging people to come by. They've offered free turkey dinners in their centrally located, family friendly restaurant for more than 20 years.

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Last year, Patch profiled Mario's Pizza in Hoboken and the Iron Monkey Cafe in Jersey City, who offered the meals even during the pandemic.

Iron Monkey is not offering the free meals this year, however. They noted on Instagram:

"This Thanksgiving is going to be different than what we usually do. Unfortunately, we won’t be doing grab and go this year. We will be open for regular business as usual." They are running drink specials.

Free Turkey Dinner

But if you want a free turkey dinner at a restaurant, Mario's Classic Pizza in Hoboken is welcoming guests from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

"For over twenty years we have been serving our community here in Hoboken free traditional Thanksgiving dinners and this year will be just like all the others," they said on Instagram this week. "On this Thursday Thanksgiving Day starting at 11 a.m. we will be serving free meals. Please help spread the word to people who may be in need this holiday."

They added, "Anyone and everyone is welcome. We appreciate all of our customers who have donated or donated in the past. We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season."

They're located at Eighth and Garden streets. You can call to confirm if you like, 201-659-0808.

In Jersey City

In Jersey City, a charity in Greenville plans to give away more than 1,000 free meals and will also distribute turkeys to needy families. They are accepting volunteers. Find out more here.

Charities, churches, and town halls typically run food banks for people in need, sometimes giving away toiletries as well as food. Hoboken runs a twice-weekly food pantry with supplies. Contact your local town hall for information.

• RELATED: 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

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