YORK, Pa. — As businesses shut their doors for the Thanksgiving holiday, individuals without family to celebrate with and even those seeking respite from relatives often find themselves without a place to go.
On Thanksgiving night, The Handsome Cab buzzed with activity, contrasting the quiet, empty sidewalks and storefronts nearby. Co-owners Robert Godfrey and Andrew D’Agenais opened their establishment with free family-style food for patrons looking to connect.
Long-time York resident, Patty Maher planned to spend her holiday alone at home.
“I have a huge family back in Virginia, but I decided to stay home this year,” she said. That was until she saw the advertisement from The Handsome Cab and decided to join the fun.
Godfrey said keeping doors open on holidays used to be a tradition however, the effects of the COVID pandemic kept the restaurant and wine bar’s doors shuttered on holidays since.
“It’s just a nice thing for people that are out of town, people who maybe are tired of their relatives,” he remarked, highlighting the restaurant's role in building a new kind of family during the holidays.
The warmth of connection filled the air as strangers exchanged stories and laughter, illustrating a unique blend of individuals drawn together by the spirit of Thanksgiving.
“If you go over there you’re going to hear a lot of people talking and it’s great! These people don’t know each other and they’re all connecting with one another.” ” D’Agenais noted.
Maher expressed her appreciation for the owners’ efforts, stating, “Andrew and Robert are probably two of my favorite people. I treasure their friendship, and when I saw they were doing this, I just had to come.”
The new friendships formed over shared meals and conversations served as a reminder of gratitude during this special season.
Though this sense of community may only last a moment amidst the bustle of an otherwise quiet downtown, guests left with more than just a full stomach—they departed with a glass full of gratitude. Proving that family isn't always defined by blood—sometimes, it’s formed through shared experiences and savory snacks.
“We are thankful to be in York City, and this is a way to express our thanks,” D’Agenais said, encapsulating the spirit of the evening.