Restaurants At Ashby Ponds Focus on Collaboration and Socialization

At Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., residents savor delicious dishes prepared by professional chefs using the freshest ingredients.

More importantly, each made-to-order meal provides the opportunity for social connection. Whether gathering with neighbors for dinner, celebrating a special occasion with friends, or inviting loved ones to share a meal, dining is one of the highlights of community life.

"Dinners are a time to relax and enjoy the evening with good food, neighbors, and friends," says resident Michael Goldstein.

Variety for every taste

Each of Ashby Ponds' nine on-site restaurants features its own distinct menu and atmosphere.

The Blue Sky provides a fine dining experience for dinner as well as a popular Sunday brunch. With a spacious dining room and welcoming ambiance, it remains a favorite for residents who appreciate traditional, sit-down meals. The Potomac Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience featuring internationally inspired entrees.

The recently renovated Robin's Nest Café is a laid-back spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for its quick service and variety of options, including soups, salads, and grilled specialties, it's the ideal place for residents on the go. Open for lunch and dinner, the Acorn Deli offers a similar casual setting.

At Windows, residents enjoy dinner and handcrafted cocktails in a lively environment. Recently reopened after renovations, the restaurant now features additional seating and a refreshed bar area while still maintaining its distinctive design.

The Asian-inspired restaurant 1912 takes its name from the year Japan gifted cherry blossom trees to Washington, D.C. Located in Ashby Ponds' Cherry Blossom neighborhood, the restaurant offers a menu of Asian fusion and other international dishes.

Black Rock Bistro features a Mediterranean-inspired menu and is known for its open kitchen and pizza oven, giving residents the chance to design their own pizzas--with traditional and cauliflower crust options.

The Skyline Grille serves freshly prepared salads, sandwiches, burgers, and savory entrees for lunch and dinner. And for residents seeking classic pub fare, the jovial Dogwood Pub offers favorites such as fish and chips, pepperoni flatbread, and chicken-bacon-ranch paninis.

Flavorful, fresh takes

With so many options for residents to choose from, Dining Director Kevin Kilhefner and his team of professional chefs prepare more than 1,700 entrees every night. Meals are cooked to order, ensuring dishes are always fresh and flavorful.

"We take great pride in serving delicious meals that residents truly enjoy," says Kilhefner. "Our chefs use only the freshest produce. We want residents to feel confident that every meal is prepared with care."

Kilhefner notes that his team's strong partnership with the dining committee ensures that restaurant menus reflect what residents want. "We take their input seriously and incorporate that into what we do every day," he says.

"The committee's efforts help provide residents with the best possible dining experience," says Michael, chair of the dining committee. "We work together as partners to implement ideas that improve the dining experience."

The result is a range of dishes that reflect the unique needs of the community. "With [around] two thousand residents, we have a great variety of desires, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and diabetes support," explains Michael.

By rotating menu offerings frequently and preparing each entree from scratch, the dining team easily accommodates these and other dietary needs and preferences.

Gathering around

Throughout the year, Kilhefner and his team also host special dining events, such as themed meals and holiday celebrations, bringing residents together for memorable experiences.

"Valentine's Day is one of my favorites because the menu, boasting filet mignon and lobster, is exceptional," Michael says. "I also like the regional celebrations because I get to try some new and different meals."

Residents have gathered for Fourth of July cookouts, Father's Day barbecues, Thanksgiving dinners, and festive events for Mardi Gras and St. Patrick's Day--just to name a few.

Regardless of whether he's celebrating a holiday or simply catching up with a neighbor over dinner, Michael finds that socializing is the best part of his dining experiences at Ashby Ponds.

"Everyone bonds over dinner," says Michael. "Clubs and groups can eat dinner together in the private dining rooms, and relatives are always welcome. Sometimes you are offered the opportunity to eat with other residents. I've found these to be enjoyable learning experiences about our fascinating neighbors."

Request more information today to learn more about the restaurants and social dining experiences residents enjoy.