Serving Up Delicious Dishes at Devonshire

October 12, 2024

"Dining is an important part of life at Devonshire," says Marge Housen, who lives at the Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 

Thanks to the Signature Dining program, Devonshire community members like Marge savor cooked-to-order meals made with the freshest ingredients.

"And each of our five restaurants specializes in a different type of cooking, providing opportunities to try all kinds of food," she explains. "Our talented chefs are very creative, so there are many choices for us to choose from every day."

"Our menu options reflect not only old favorites, but contemporary food trends that match--or beat--entrees offered at local restaurants," says Dining Services Director Joseph Marinelli. "Our goal is to exceed the expectations of our community members!"

Something for everyone

Dining choices at Devonshire range from casual cafes to full-service restaurants, where specialties are impeccably prepared and plated.

The Verandah restaurant--which boasts a true country club feel--offers popular buffet dinners, continental breakfast Monday through Saturday, and Sunday brunch. Although the menu is updated regularly to reflect feedback and seasonal availability, recent specialties have included penne with shrimp and pesto, roasted pork tenderloin, and beef bourguignon. The Verandah also has daily specials including a soup du jour and vegetarian dish. 

Perfect for meeting friends for a quick bite or a cold beer, the Oxford Pub serves traditional comfort food in a casual British pub setting. Open for lunch and dinner, a wide variety of fresh salads and daily soup specials are also available.

The deli-style Piccadeli is another great spot for a light lunch, as it has a wide variety of signature soups and salads, burgers, and sandwiches.

Jacket required

The elegant Windsor restaurant offers first-class service, prime cuts of steak, and an extensive wine list. Recent non-beef options have included blue cheese gnocchi, shrimp Romesco, and chicken Milanese.

"The Windsor is my favorite restaurant. It's as good as any steak house in the area," says Marge. "In addition to the steaks and chops, prepared as you wish, the restaurant offers seafood, chicken, and even vegetarian options."

At the Cavendish, diners are treated to authentic, fresh seafood dinners with stunning views of the pool. Here, community members have enjoyed entrees like softshell crab, Mediterranean cod, linguine and clams, Tuscan salmon, and vegetarian lentil Dhal. Like the Windsor, the Cavendish requires jackets for gentlemen.

Powerful partnership

To ensure community member satisfaction at each of these unique eateries, Marinelli and his team maintain an open-door policy for feedback and suggestions.

"Dining touches community members' lives every day," he says. "Our menus reflect the partnership they have with our chefs. It's important that community members feel like they have a say in our restaurants and the meals they enjoy, as it's a part of their home. As a result, we appreciate their feedback--whether it's through food forums, comment cards, or one-on-one meetings."

Marinelli and Assistant Dining Services Director Ana Arias also meet monthly with the community members' culinary committee to gain more insight. Marge, who chairs the committee, notes that they are always listening.

"I never hesitate to talk with Joe or Ana regarding the committee's suggestions," says Marge. "Last week, our committee suggested adding a third cocktail--joining Bloody Marys and mimosas--to our Sunday brunch. They were very receptive, adding the fuzzy navel to our options."

Coming together

The Dining Services team also creates delicious menus for a full calendar of special events at the community. In addition to recognizing all major holidays, the team schedules themed dinners, often inspired by a chef's passion or a community member's request. 

"As a multicultural community, we receive lots of requests," says Marinelli. "This year, we've highlighted Indian, Mexican, Cuban, and Spanish meals." 

"Our community enjoys celebrating, embracing holidays and themed meals," says Marge. "I recently joined my neighbors for a 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' themed brunch. We all wore our little black dresses and pearls. For Kentucky Derby Day, all of the ladies came to the meal in their fanciest hats."

As a result of the Dining Services team's efforts, every meal--themed or not--is a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends and meet new neighbors. 

"Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a holiday celebration, meals are a great way to meet someone new," says Marge. "Food does a wonderful job of bringing people together!"

Invest in your future self at Devonshire. From top-notch amenities to maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!

 


 

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