According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 5 adults in New Jersey has a disability that impacts their ability to work. Of those Jerseyans who are either physically and/or developmentally disabled, only about 19% are employed, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The restaurants we’ve rounded up below make a point to hire people with different abilities. The next time you’re planning to go out to eat, support one of these restaurants not just for their great food but because you know you’re supporting job opportunities for those with different abilities.
301 N. Harrison St., Princeton
Antoine and Gaud Yver have 10 children, four of whom were adopted and have Down syndrome. They spoke with friends of theirs about opening a small restaurant when they retired. They decided to have the restaurant be a place of dignity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to work by preparing fresh and balanced meals each day. Salads, soups and sandwiches are on the menu.
Brandon’s Pancake House & Ice Cream Parlor
6200 New Jersey Ave., Wildwood Crest
Aimee Famiano, owner and operator, says that when she met her now-husband Karl in 2012, he bonded with her sons, especially Brandon. They wanted to provide a special place where Brandon can be successful and employ other people with autism or other special needs. Come by for breakfast and stay for dessert.
Compassion Cafe
Sea Shell Resort & Beach Club, 10 South Atlantic Ave., Long Beach Island
The teens and adults serving you have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The small bakery setting offers coffee, bagels, quiche and pastries in addition to a dog bakery.
Grateful Bites Bakery & Cafe
42 State Rte. 12, Flemington
Since November 2013, the nonprofit Ability 2 Work started doing business as Grateful Bites, training chefs, co-therapists, and hospitality devotees. They locally source their produce, meat and dairy within a 40-mile radius and make everything from scratch, including pastries and bacon.
Mayor Mac’s Cafe
Cypress Recreation Center, Port Reading
High school teens with special needs serve breakfast and lunch on days the Woodbridge school district is open. It’s sponsored by Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac.
No Limits Cafe
418 Rte. 35, Red Bank
With the mission of “Eat well, do good,” this cafe employs young adults with intellectual disabilities. No Lomits is open for dine-in, takeout or delivery on weekdays.
Oasis Farm
89 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Middletown
Although it’s a farm center and not a restaurant, Oasis TLC provides job training, living quarters and meaningful employment to young adults with autism, including a beautiful tea service in a comfortable, welcoming setting.
Popcorn for the People
East Brunswick
Although this isn’t a restaurant, Popcorn for the People was established in 2014 specifically to create career opportunities for the disabled community. Co-founder Samuel Bier had no working experience besides pushing shopping carts at a grocery store. No company was open to giving him an opportunity that felt fulfilling, so he and his parents came together to help others struggling with employment too. They sell their popcorn at county fairs and festivals, other events, and online.
Salt Creek Grille
1 Rockingham Row, Princeton
The restaurant has an ongoing partnership with Eden Autism, and will welcome back students for the 12th year. Kids take on tasks and get real-world kitchen experience alongside staff so they are prepared for life after graduation. The group prepares the bar area, folds napkins and chops vegetables.
Sorriso KitchenÂ
252 Main St., Chatham
Owners Jimmy and Karen Bellas have two sons; LJ has Down syndrome. On Mondays, the restaurant is closed so that it can become a classroom for young adults with special needs to learn about the service and hospitality industry. Sorriso serves breakfasts, Chef’s Tasting Dinners and hosts art nights and other dinner events.
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