Island Spice in Chicopee shows resiliency amidst challenges

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - This is one restaurant that is quickly becoming a staple in our community.

After three years of serving the community as one of Massachusetts’ first Sri Lankan restaurants -- Island Spice in Chicopee opened their doors Saturday for a special event celebrating all they have accomplished in such a short period of time ... and this family has been through a lot over the last few years.

From the passing of close family members, to a fire that destroyed their food truck, somehow through it all they’ve managed to keep the community fed, and make sure customers leave smiling.

Western Mass News spoke with Lisa Totz, who is a consultant for the restaurant. She tells us about the start of this company and what they’ve had to work through to keep it running.

“Island Spice took six months to open when Valley Opportunity Council gave them this beautiful space, and they converted it to be Island Spice. They’ve been here for three years now and this is their third anniversary celebration. It was founded by Dee and her husband, and her husband has since passed on, but he’s the foundation of this with her and they’ve gone through quite a bit of challenges with the business. They lost her son, they lost her husband, they lost their food truck, but they’re back and they’re resilient as anything, and they’re here celebrating three years in the Chicopee community,” explained Totz with Island Spice.

[WATCH VIDEO: Crews battle food truck fire in Chicopee]

If you don’t know what to order at a Sri Lankan restaurant don’t worry, the staff at Island Spice are here to help and offer advice.

“What’s really interesting and neat about Sri Lankan food is everybody automatically thinks that it’s spicy, but it’s not. It’s unique, aromatic, and made with fresh spices. So, it’s very flavorful, but its not necessarily hot to taste -- unless you ask for it to be hot. They can make that happen,” noted Totz.

And some exciting news too...in January they’re going to be adding beer and wine to their menu!

Island Spice is located at 32 Center Street in Chicopee.