Restaurants At Ann's Choice Focus on Collaboration and Socialization

Sharing a meal is one of life's simplest pleasures, and at Ann's Choice, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bucks County, Pa., it is also one of the easiest ways for residents to connect.

At six restaurants across the community, residents savor delicious dishes prepared by professional chefs in the company of friends, neighbors, and loved ones. From casual lunches to special dinner celebrations, dining is truly a highlight of life at Ann's Choice.

"Combining great food with meaningful connections enhances the community's vibrant lifestyle," says Dining Director Richard Weise.

Variety for every taste

Each on-site restaurant features its own distinct menu and atmosphere.

The Fireside Restaurant serves dinner in a warm, inviting setting, perfect for residents who appreciate traditional, sit-down meals. The Garden Room restaurant is another popular dinner option for residents.

Banner's Café is a laid-back spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for its quick service and variety of options, it's the ideal place for residents on the go. Meet friends for lunch and conversation at the Acorn Pub, featuring classic pub fare.

Signatures Restaurant hosts Sunday brunch--a resident favorite--as well as lunch and dinner. Oak Terrace, one of the newest dining venues, serves breakfast and lunch.

Fresh, flavorful takes

To keep the dining experience fresh and exciting, each restaurant has its own executive chef who curates menus that incorporate resident feedback.

"We strive to incorporate homestyle, traditional, regional, and international dishes," Weise explains. "The chefs also meet regularly to ensure there is minimal overlap between menus, creating greater variety for residents."

All entrees are made-to-order using only the freshest ingredients--a standard that Weise and his team take pride in maintaining. "Our chefs are passionate about cooking and serving quality meals," he says.

Healthy options are available as well, and chefs frequently meet one-on-one with diners to discuss dietary needs and preferences. "Our chefs will walk through different dishes and how we can customize them without compromising flavor," Weise adds.

Invaluable input

Residents also play an important role in maintaining top-notch dining experiences. Michael Droluk chairs the resident dining committee, which works closely with the dining team to identify improvements.

"We've got a lot of ideas. People come up and talk to us or give us lists of suggestions," says Michael, noting that neighbors can also share feedback during special events like the dining expo held in March.

In fact, some resident suggestions have already been implemented. For example, the committee introduced a TLT system--short for taste, look, and temperature--to help ensure dishes consistently meet quality standards. They also helped expand the "always available" menu, so residents know they can always order familiar favorites.

For Ronnie Gerster, chair of the Resident Advisory Council and liaison to the dining committee, this collaboration between residents and staff is key. She points to another instance when residents suggested adding a counter so people could rest their trays while standing in line.

"They listened and made the change," she says, with a smile.

Gathering around

While delicious food is certainly important, many residents say that the greatest benefit of dining at Ann's Choice is the opportunity to spend time together.

"For many residents, dinner hour is their social hour of the day," says Michael. "That's where you meet your friends and interact."

Ronnie agrees, saying, "One of the easiest ways to socialize at Ann's Choice is getting dinner in the many restaurants."

The community's restaurants have become popular gathering places for casual get-togethers with new friends and club members. Private dining rooms allow residents to host birthday celebrations with loved ones, and themed events bring neighbors together throughout the year.

"[In the past], there were festivities for Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day, and opening day for baseball," says Ronnie. "Then, of course, all the main holidays."

According to Michael, the most recent Mardi Gras menu--created by chefs--was especially memorable. "It was absolutely fabulous," he says.

Memorable meals

Clearly, at Ann's Choice, dining is about much more than what's on the plate. It's about meeting new people and strengthening existing friendships, making mealtime--and every day--more enjoyable.

"Dining is the main way you can meet people here and enjoy socialization," Ronnie adds. "I think they're doing an excellent job!"

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

By Julia Collins