Molly Martin
Audio By Carbonatix
Thanksgiving is all about sharing food with loved ones, whether you’re cooking at home or dining out. But for those without loved ones nearby, or without access to food, the holiday can be a tough time. Many local food banks and other nonprofits work hard year-round to make sure those in need have healthy meals — but with particularly hard times this fall, several new efforts to share food with the community are being spearheaded by local restaurants.
In the spirit of “Daddy” Bruce Randolph and the turkey dinners he shared with the community for years, here are three spots where you can find company and a warm meal for free on November 27:
Breakfast Palace
2000 South Broadway
A staple near the corner of South Broadway and East Evans Avenue, Breakfast Palace has long been a go-to for cheap, dependable diner eats. Last year, the business was purchased by two employees, Trish Mestas and Juan Perez Sepulveda, and now the crew is coming together to cook Thanksgiving meals for anyone who shows up starting at noon on Thanksgiving Day. “If you’re hungry or lonely and want a good meal, it’s on us. … If you know anyone in need, send them our way, please,” the restaurant shared in a Facebook post. The latest update: “We have the turkeys, just not enough ovens to cook them in. Please reach out if you are interested in donating a fryer or the use of your oven.” Call 303-698-0685 if you’re able to help.
Velvet Lasso
If this name is unfamiliar, there’s a good reason: Velvet Lasso isn’t open yet. The new cafe and lounge is slated to open in the former Noisette space at 𝟥𝟤𝟧𝟦 Navajo Street in early 2026, but it’s not wasting any time getting involved with the community. “This Thanksgiving, we’re doing what the Velvet Lasso does best — feeding folks, loving loud, and taking care of our community with no strings attached,” it writes in an Instagram post about its free holiday meal offer. Catch the team at RiNo Art Park (1900 35th Street) on November 27 from 2 p.m. until the food runs out. “Everyone’s welcome — boots, baggage, babies, besties, all of it.”
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Free Friendsgiving for Hospitality Workers
Pony Up
1808 Blake Street
While diners love that some restaurants are open during the holiday season, that means that some hospitality workers aren’t able to travel home to see their families. This year, industry favorite Pony Up has teamed up with BearLeek and Run for the Roses for a free Friendsgiving for those in the industry starting at 6 p.m. on November 27. The meal and camaraderie come at no cost, but any donations or tips will benefit CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach Wellness), a local Denver non-profit mental health and wellness support group for people who work in food, beverage, and hospitality. Reservations are available on Eventbrite.
