Nick Papadopoulos was getting 80 or so people to his free Thanksgiving meals at Midcoast Pizza & More Restaurant.

Not a bad turnout.

But Papadopoulos and his staff were preparing enough food for more. So he has decided to invite everyone, regardless of ability to pay, to his Thanksgiving Day feast, from noon to 2 p.m.

Anyone who so desires is welcome to make a donation that will go to the Bath Area Food Bank. Last year, Papadopoulos and his staff collected nearly $300 for the Food Bank.

“I would do this for 10 or 15 people,” he said. “If I can please one, I’m fine, but I’m always prepared for 100 to 120.”

Papadopoulos is going all out to make it as easy as possible for people to have Thanksgiving on him. Platinum Plus Taxi is providing free rides, or someone from the restaurant will pick up people and take them to his restaurant at 737 Washington St., if they call 443-6631.

Turkey and all the traditional trimmings will be served.

Papadopoulos is offering the free Thanksgiving meal for the third straight year; he also did it a few times in the 1990s.

“I have a personal reason for doing it,” he said. “It’s in memory of my sister.”

Papadopoulos, who came to this country from Greece 40 years ago, said he doesn’t solicit donations.

“I like to do it on my own,” he said. “Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It’s the best holiday, in my opinion.

“I’m a pilgrim, too.”

When everyone is fed, Papadopoulos said he and his crew will sit down to their own Thanksgiving Day meal.

lgrard@timesrecord.com