Chatham Eatery Honored For Supporting Special Needs (VIDEO)

CHATHAM, NJ - There are many restaurants popular with patrons in Chatham, but what sets Sorriso Kitchen apart is their commitment to serve up smiles while supporting those with special needs. And on Tuesday, they were honored for it.

We were thrilled when the students of Education, Careers & Lifelong Community (ECLC) of New Jersey stopped by and surprised us with this wonderful award," co-owner Karen Bellas posted to Facebook. "The beautiful plaque was created by students in the SKIL program in appreciation for supporting ECLC students as they celebrate 30 years in Chatham."

On Mondays Sorriso Kitchen provides an opportunity to train young adults with special needs as it will be used as a "classroom" for education in service and hospitality. That concept was brought into focus by Karen Bellas' son LJ, a 17-year-old born with Down Syndrome who attends ECLC.

"It dawned on us, why don't we offer it up to LJ's school to use as a 'classroom' for some real-life job training? This excited us as yet another reason appeared for why we had to open Sorriso," Bellas said. "We presented the idea to ECLC and needless to say they were thrilled."

Bellas said the choice to open at 252 Main Street in Chatham was a no-brainer, because this is the place they've called home for nearly two decades. Since opening the positive reviews on the place have been pouring in.

"An amazing breakfast this morning! Bacon, egg and cheese on a croissant! The best potato's crispy with the skin on and well seasoned," Mary Marano said. "The coffee was perfect! Karen and Jim were friendly and so was the staff! Great job Nico! I will definitely go back to try more delicious options!"

Polly Currier-Peters said she recommended the place not only for the food.

"Just wow. Delicious, creative food. Excellent service. Warm, stylish space. Chatham is so lucky to have Sorriso," she said. "We'll be back soon."

Gianna Lynn also recommended visiting the place for the staff experience.

"Went to Sorriso Kitchen for the first time and the employees are so nice and welcoming and the food was absolutely amazing definitely coming back and bringing my family," Lynn said.

But it is perhaps the accolades from the school and the students they are devoted to helping that stands out.

"We are absolutely delighted and honored and ever so grateful to ECLC for the opportunity," Bellas wrote. "Thank you."

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