This holiday season, we are thrilled to partner with Everytable and Chef Shane Tavarez, an incredible alumni member of My Friend’s Place, to bring a meaningful scratch-cooked holiday meal to the Everytable menu.

A Journey of Resilience, Love, and Community

Shane’s journey is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that young people can create for themselves when they feel seen, affirmed, and supported by a caring community.

It was at My Friend’s Place that Shane not only discovered his passion for food but also met his lifelong partner, Stephanie. Together, they built a life rich with love, creativity, and traditions—including their signature holiday dishes that blended bold, unexpected flavors. Though Stephanie is no longer with us, her spirit lives on through Shane’s cooking and his commitment to sharing their story.

Introducing My Friends Plate

In collaboration with Shane, Everytable has created My Friends Plate, a holiday meal inspired by Shane and Stephanie’s cherished traditions. You can enjoy this heartfelt meal individually or share it with loved ones (serves 4).

This special holiday offering features:

• Roasted Turkey Breast
• Charred Brussels Sprouts
• Shane’s Savory Cranberry Stuffing
• Stephanie’s Sweet Potato Mash

Each dish is a celebration of resilience, love, and community.

Watch Shane’s Story

In this inspiring video, Chef Shane Tavarez opens up about his incredible journey from My Friend’s Place to a meaningful career in the culinary world. Watch as he shares how food became a way to honor his family, his community, and the memory of his late wife, Stephanie. Joined by Everytable’s Chef Tim Reardon, Shane prepares a holiday meal that’s rich in tradition, resilience, and purpose.