An Arizona Mexican restaurant is facing intense backlash after offering free meals to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and other law enforcement officers.
Sammy’s Mexican Grill, owned by Jorge Rivas, has been flooded with negative calls, messages and online reviews since a social media video highlighted the policy. Rivas said the restaurant is choosing to respond with kindness despite the criticism, explaining that “putting more hate onto hate is not going to lead anywhere good.”
Rivas, an immigrant from El Salvador, said the offer applies to ICE because the agents are federal law enforcement officers enforcing existing laws. He described the free meals as a way to thank officers for risking their safety while on duty.
The owner noted that the restaurant has welcomed law enforcement with free food for more than five years and that the policy is not new. However, he worries that a surge of one-star reviews — some alleging unsanitary conditions or illness — could damage the business.
Staff members have tried to remain polite when answering angry calls, often responding with phrases like “God bless you” and wishing callers a good day.
Rivas, who has been active in Republican politics, urged critics to channel their energy into more positive pursuits as tensions surrounding ICE continue to rise nationwide.