On-Site Restaurants Offer Delicious Experiences

At The Grandview, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bethesda, Md., residents can dine at three distinct restaurants that blend flavorful cuisine with welcoming spaces to connect.

Crescent Overlook, a full-service venue with a covered outdoor terrace; West of Wisconsin, for more casual fare; and The View at One Forty, a fine-dining restaurant with a rooftop wine bar and comfortable outdoor seating, all offer chef-prepared dishes in a social environment.

"The food is delicious!" says Toby Levin, who moved to The Grandview last December.

Made fresh

Each restaurant features its own menu, and all dishes are cooked to perfection by professional chefs using the freshest ingredients.

Dining Director Dakota Scaletta notes that The View at 140th is very popular. "The venue features small plates, perfect for those who want a lighter meal," she explains. "Or, if you're joining friends for cocktails, it's great for getting light bites to share."

Savory solutions

Because all entrees are made-to-order, it's easy for chefs to honor requests and modifications from residents. This was a real draw for Toby, who has dietary restrictions.

Toby had the opportunity to meet with Scaletta and Executive Chef Paul Brewer before she moved in, which provided peace of mind. "They both expressed a commitment to not only meet my dietary needs but also make my dining experience enjoyable," she recalls.

Since dining at each restaurant at The Grandview, Toby has watched this commitment come to fruition. She appreciates having a wide range of customizable options--especially the variety of fish.

"I'll ask the server to let the chef know that the order is for me, because I know that they will make sure that certain ingredients are not used," she explains. "I like my fish prepared pan-seared with no spices, just lemon slices."

Scaletta notes that many residents have expressed how grateful they are to be able to customize their meals. "We have residents who are vegetarian or simply want more plant-based options. It's great to hear people say that they are being so well cared for here," she says.

Feedback fuels success

To ensure restaurant menus reflect residents' tastes and preferences, Scaletta and her team welcome feedback.

Welcome feedback

"We really appreciate the input we get from residents," says Scaletta. "In fact, we added dinner service to West of Wisconsin based on resident feedback."

She continues, "We try to make it easy for residents to share their thoughts with us. In addition to the comment cards in each restaurant, we have a weekly chat at the Life Enrichment Center to get feedback, and I also host a monthly dining forum. We want to do what's best for them!"

"I have found everyone here to be inclusive and welcoming, with a willingness to listen and take suggestions," says Toby.

Gathering around

More important, each made-to-order meal provides the opportunity for social connection.

At Crescent Overlook, the "community table" that seats 12 to 14 people is popular among residents looking to dine with someone new.

"Some residents who met at the community table then branched off and created their own dinner groups," notes Scaletta. "Also, we have many large groups who met during the move-in process. When they all want to sit together, we push tables together, or they will reserve a private dining room. There's a canasta group of 16 that meets every Friday for dinner!"

Special dining events such as music bingo, trivia, St. Patrick's Day dinner, Passover seder, and other holiday celebrations also bring residents together.

Taste of the good life

Toby, now settled in her new home, appreciates living at a community that offers exceptional dining experiences. "You can't ask for anything more than that!" she says.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Gregory J. Alexander