In a world full of f-bomb dropping chefs, Gordon Ramsay and Hell’s Kitchen, over the top antisocial antics from the owners of Amy’s Baking Company, and local restaurant employees getting stiffed by owners, I present a refreshing alternative:  Tim’s Place, in Albuquerque, NM.  It is owned and operated by Tim Harris, who dispenses free hugs along with huevos rancheros, cinnamon rolls, green chile stew, and enchiladas.  (See the menu here.)

Tim has a “hug counter”, and he’s tallied more than 32,000 hugs since he opened his restaurant after earning certificates in food service, office skills, and restaurant hosting from Eastern New Mexico State University.  Despite having Down Syndrome, Tim is living his dream of owning a business and is being nice to people as he succeeds.

The world needs more Tims.