My local family was unavailable today to celebrate Thanksgiving on the actual holiday. I was thrilled to have learned about the generous offer by Fiorenza Ristorante owner Bill Pierson to serve a free, traditional holiday meal to anyone who would come to the Madison Street establishment. A friend from Darien, Steven Brichta, also has no one nearby to celebrate with so he joined me.
The Forest Park Review article mentioned the event and added that all the employees had volunteered their time and we appreciated their kindness to help us celebrate this American holiday. The owner and eight kitchen and wait staff were present, as was the piano player.
The turkey, stuffing, potatoes, green beans, corn, cranberry sauce with whole berries, salad and pumpkin pie were excellent. The service was prompt and courteous. Much gratitude to owner Bill Pierson, chef Fiorenza Tasinato and the staff for an excellent, memorable holiday feast.
Sharon Wright, a reporter with NBC 5 TV, stopped by to speak with some patrons and employees as part of her story regarding organizations that gave back to the community in serving Thanksgiving meals. The story aired on Thursday’s evening news cast and the segment of Fiorenza Ristorante included one lady who said the restaurant’s gesture was ‘heartwarming’.
Gary Ghertner
Forest Park
