The unemployment rate for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Arizona is nearly 90%. Knowing something had to be done about this statistic, Pam DePalma and Chef W Rieth opened Not Your Typical Delicatessen and Catering with a mission to not only serve incredible food, but to make a difference. “Our vision is to create an integrated work environment, that helps build a platform for success for each one of our employees/ trainees,” said Chef W. “We do not measure our success by dollars, we measure it by how many jobs we create, our goal is to create as many jobs as possible.”

Not Your Typical Deli is a full service delicatessen and bakery, located in Gilbert, Arizona. They showcase local products and services, including local artists, bakers, and other culinary professionals, to provide guests with a unique dining and shopping experience. It is their objective to provide capable adults with developmental disabilities comprehensive training that will qualify them to work in the restaurant industry. NYT Deli hopes local culinary businesses will be encouraged to hire their students and to be informed about the value that their students can bring to other business.

Since opening NTY Deli has been recognized for The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in Arizona (Delish.com), The Best Place To Get A Sandwich in Arizona (Travel + Leisure Magazine), and the Best Server in Gilbert 2017 – NYT Deli’s Cordell (The East Valley Tribune).

The restaurant employs 15 to 20 individuals with 80% on the autism spectrum. Gilbert is currently their only location but the hope is to have one on all four corners of the valley, and possibly out of state.

“The support we have gotten from the community and the Town has been nothing short of amazing! We are proud to be a Gilbert business!” said Chef W.

Chef W and his team are currently working on the “Nobodys Typical” awareness campaign, an effort to create a movement for equal rights for those with developmental disabilities in the work force. To get involved or to learn more, please visit http://nytdeli.com/.