CINCINNATI — What does it take to feed an “original Italian dinner” to 2,000 to 3,000 guests?
Try 600 gallons of sauce, 220,000 raviolis and 30,000 meatballs.
That’s what volunteers have been working for weeks to prepare for Sunday’s 108th dinner at Sacred Heart Church.
People lined up in the rain Sunday morning for their once-a-year favorites. What's the secret to bringing back so many diners year after year, and new ones, too?
Chairman Ron Panioto says every single person gets a great meal.
"We serve a great product - that's the big thing. They keep coming back. You know, to wait in line like they do, as long as they do, it testifies to something, you know," Panioto said.
Panioto says his favorite is the ravioli.
"I just love putting it together and love eating it. It's so tasty," he said.
Panioto has been volunteering for 31 years, and many other workers come back every year, too.
"You get no pay, no anything, you know? Hopefully The Lord takes care of them sometime, but just being with them and everything is just great," he said.
Carryout started at 10 a.m. Dinner is served at noon and until the food runs out. The price is $12 - $5 for kids 12 and under.
