Algonquin eatery serving up Christmas dinner to the needy

With a free upcoming Christmas dinner for needy families in and around Algonquin, a local restaurant owner is giving back to the community that's been so good to him.

From 1 to 5 p.m. Christmas Day, those less fortunate can enjoy a dinner for free at Mandile's Italian Restaurant and Banquets, 2160 Lake Cook Road in Algonquin.

Between 10 and 15 employees, friends and family members from the east side Algonquin eatery will be serving up pasta, chicken, turkey and various desserts.

This marks the first time in 11 years the restaurant, normally closed on Christmas, has held such a dinner.

It was the economic downturn and knowing that many have fallen on hard times that convinced owner Mike Mandile to hold the dinner.

"We're taking it out of our pocket - we're just ordering the food as if it was for us," said Mandile, a Palatine resident. "We've been successful for 11 years and we've been able to prosper and some people's luck may have changed, but it's Christmas. Everyone should have an opportunity to enjoy the holiday."

The dinner is free, but reservations are required. More than 100 people have already signed up. The restaurant and banquet hall combined are big enough to seat 450 people.

If you'd like to attend or volunteer, call the restaurant at (847) 458-4000.