Stephen's Place Edible Smiles
It’s lunch time at Stephen’s Place.
The table is set and the aroma of the next culinary feast fills the air at Stephen's Place. The closer you come to the kitchen, the clearer the sound of Bob Marley’s “Is This Love” sung with gusto. Upon entering the kitchen, you are greeted by the smile and unmistakable upbeat attitude of Stephen’s Place Executive Chef and self-proclaimed “Director of Edible Smiles,” Chef Zane Manwell.As a parent of children with developmental disabilities, Zane understands the challenge and responsibility of carefully planning and preparing healthful meals. His passion for cooking for this unique community is evident in the intentionality and purpose put into each dish, ultimately desiring to give each resident the best for health and enjoyment.
“You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces - just good food from fresh ingredients.” Julie Child
A student of nutrition and an avid gardener, Zane takes great care in choosing nutrient-rich ingredients that are organic, hormone-free, grass-fed and locally grown. Forfeiting the use of unnecessary preservatives, flavor enhancers, emulsifiers and fat-infused products, Chef’s decision to cook from scratch with whole ingredients solidifies Stephen’s Place healthier, holistic approach to nutrition. Our greenhouse will provide year-round produce planted and tended to by our residents.Zane believes while they may not provide cures for developmental disabilities, food and nutrition play a large role in managing symptoms and behavior. As such, each resident’s individual dietary needs are met through careful and thoughtful meal planning and coordination. Well balanced menus provide essential vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates and good fats. Where appropriate, gluten free and dairy free options are made available.Mealtime is all inclusive, it is family time. The laughter and conversation around the table is made up of staff and residents alike. Chef Zane serves each person individually, proudly greeting them with a smile, a pat on the back and joyful conversation. Beyond the fantastic fare, mealtime improves communication and encourages the bonds between residents and staff, truly solidifying Stephen’s Place ambition to be seen and known as family.As lunch time comes to an end, plates are empty and the roar of laughter and conversation dull to a low, satisfied hum. As Chef Zane heads back to the kitchen to prepare for the next meal, the kitchen door opens and the booming reggae beats fill the dining room again. Zane begins to bellow the next tune and his long time professional partner, Sous Chef and Pastry Artist, Becky Leedy sets up to prepare a decadent dessert.But first...dinner!