The Real Alice of Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” dies at 83

Alice Brock, the charismatic restaurateur whose Massachusetts eatery became the inspiration for Arlo Guthrie’s iconic Thanksgiving anthem, “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree,” has passed away at the age of 83. Her death comes at a time of year when her legacy looms especially large. For decades, Guthrie’s 18-minute spoken-word epic has been a Thanksgiving staple on radio stations nationwide, offering listeners a humorous and satirical account of the events that unfolded around Brock’s restaurant one memorable holiday.

The song, released in 1967, weaves a comedic yet pointed narrative of counterculture absurdity, punctuated by Guthrie’s signature drawl. It humorously recounts the tale of a Thanksgiving meal gone awry, a pile of illegally dumped trash, and an over-the-top interaction with the military draft board. At the heart of the piece is Brock, whose restaurant—although more of a gathering spot than a formal eatery—served as the backdrop for Guthrie’s irreverent storytelling. The refrain, “You can get anything you want at Alice’s Restaurant,” has since become one of the most recognizable lines in American folk music.

In 2020, Alice faced financial difficulties as her health began to decline. In response, Lamot and Davis launched a GoFundMe campaign that quickly raised $180,000. Contributions poured in from friends and strangers alike, accompanied by heartfelt messages of support. Deeply moved by the generosity, Alice expressed her gratitude, writing at the time:

“To all the very dear kind and generous folks who chipped into my GoFunMe page.  It went over the top and I am overwhelmed by the response. The comments that people wrote are heartwarming and I hope I don’t get a swelled head. Everyone has a story and I appreciate you sharing yours with me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Peace and Love to All, Alice”

Brock’s vibrant personality and her role in this cultural phenomenon ensured her a permanent place in the annals of 1960s counterculture. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit lives on every Thanksgiving when Guthrie’s satirical masterpiece resonates with audiences old and new.