810 Munchies Sponsors Local Autistic Chef for Disney Culinary Event

Flint special needs restaurant is stepping up to help a young chef chase his culinary dreams. 810 Munchies has announced it will sponsor Sawyer, a student in the Tuscola Culinary Arts program in Caro, who has been invited to participate in a cooking competition at Disney in Florida.

Sawyer, who has autism, has been passionate about cooking for the past two years. “I like to eat it of course,” he said with a laugh when asked what he enjoys most about the kitchen. His specialties include mozzarella sticks, burgers, ramen, chicken noodle soup, pumpkin pie, ham rolls, and pizza.

At the Disney event, Sawyer will have the chance to meet celebrity chef Duff Goldman, known for his baking show Ace of Cakes. To make the trip possible, Sawyer and his family are raising funds to cover travel and expenses.

810 Munchies, led by owner Steve Brewer, is not only donating directly but also pledging 50% of sales from this week’s specials—including tacos and quesadillas—to Sawyer’s fundraising efforts. In addition, the special needs restaurant has set up a donation bucket for cash contributions and is even accepting returnable cans to add to the total.

Brewer, who came up with the concept for 810 Munchies, designed it to be more than just a place to eat. His vision was to create a safe, welcoming environment for people with special needs and autism—a community hub where everyone feels included and supported. Sponsoring Sawyer’s trip is a natural extension of that mission.

“We want to make sure this young man gets to go and fulfill his dream,” Brewer said. “This is about doing our part to help others—being good humans and helping good humans.”

Looking beyond the Disney competition, the special needs restaurant is also exploring ways to support Sawyer’s future by helping him pursue further training at the Mont Institute culinary program.

Community members are encouraged to stop by 810 Munchies, enjoy the specials, and contribute to Sawyer’s journey.