Oneta Station Diner Gives Thanks

Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends, for gathering together and for giving thanks for all of the blessings that we have in our lives. Mike Rifai, owner of Oneta Station Diner, has an extraordinary grasp on this sentiment and is eager to share it with his community.

On Thanksgiving Day, the Diner will host a gathering with a free turkey dinner for anyone who would like to share the holiday with them. From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., roast turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, corn, cranberry sauce, homemade dinner rolls, and even pumpkin pie will be served, and anyone and everyone is welcome. Located on the border of Broken Arrow and Coweta at 24236 E. Hwy 51, Oneta Station Diner recently celebrated their one-year anniversary under new management, and they are excited to share Thanksgiving with the customers and community they are so thankful for.

Many years ago, Mike Rifai was working in a restaurant in Tulsa, and was asked by a regular customer what his Thanksgiving plans would be. “He asked what I was going to do, and I said the restaurant would be closed, so I guess I would stay home,” he said. “Most of my family wasn’t here, so I had no plans.” Mike was surprised when the customer invited him to his own home to share the holiday with them. “He insisted I join them,” Mike said. “That day I went, and they had this beautiful meal, with turkey and all of the fixings, and it was so good.” It meant so much to him to have been invited, and it revealed to him what the holiday was all about. “It meant a lot to me, and I believe there are so many good people out there.” That Thanksgiving would shape his intention for the holiday in the years to follow, and he has worked to provide a free meal for many people in other restaurants since then. For him, it is tradition.

“I enjoy seeing the smiles on people’s faces,” said Mike. “It doesn’t matter how much it costs, because it’s for a good cause, and we want to show our appreciation for the customers who support us throughout the year.” Guests will not only receive a free meal, but a warm, welcoming gathering. “We want it to feel like home, like family,” Mike said. “It’s a lot of hard work to make a meal like this, so it’s wonderful for anyone who may have to work and won’t have time to cook, or for Seniors who want to relax and enjoy the day. Maybe those who don’t have family here might want to come and spend time with new friends.” Whatever the case, all are welcome. “There is a home for you here, so come and join us. You will feel the love here.”

The Thanksgiving dinner is completely free, and the register will not even open that day. There will, however, be a donation jar on the counter for anyone who would like to give, and those donations will be sent to a local charitable organization. Volunteers to help serve are also welcome. Mike makes it his mission to know all of his customers by name, and is looking forward to shaking hands and visiting with everyone. He guarantees the TV will be on with the big game of the day.

Mike and his family, as well as members of his staff and their own families, will be enjoying the meal and fellowship with everyone at the Diner. “Family, friends, and people trying to help each other is what America is all about,” said Mike. “We thank God for what he gives us and share what we can with others. This is what Thanksgiving means to me.”

For more information, visit their Facebook page @onetastationdiner, or call (918) 252-0695.