Kudos to the kitchen
The Ardenwoods kitchen staff is a recipe for success! Day in and day out, our staff does an amazing job of providing residents with superior dining experiences. Whether in the Mountain View Dining Room, Mountain Laurel Grille, on the outdoor patio, or at the myriad of special events, residents not only enjoy excellent meals, but also build lasting relationships with our dining staff. In the spirit of Kitchen Staff Appreciation Day last week, let’s get to know Ardenwoods’ Kitchen Manager Jeff Moore and learn about his vital role in our community.
Jeff Moore has been Kitchen Manager at Ardenwoods for three and a half years — bringing more than thirty-five years of leadership experience in the restaurant business with him, including long-term stints at Cracker Barrel and Longhorn Steakhouse. When Jeff saw the Ardenwoods kitchen manager opportunity listed online, he jumped at the chance to expand his restaurant experience through other culinary avenues.
“I had never had an opportunity to work with seniors in this capacity; it seemed as though it would be different, and something new and challenging to learn,” he said.
Jeff is responsible for the overall efficiency and success of the Ardenwoods kitchen. This includes supervising staff, inventory, food preparation, and managing equipment. He works alongside the talented culinary team to organize meals using fresh ingredients from local farms whenever possible and includes herbs grown on-site in Ardenwood’s kitchen garden. Regional influences and internationally inspired cuisine keep the Ardenwoods menu fresh and flavorful.
“Ardenwoods does a knock-out job on food. For example, there are specials every day, and if you don’t like something, they will cook something for you. Whether it’s a buffet or table service, we have the ability to have the best food in the world,” said resident Rex Hoppa.
Jeff especially enjoys taking residents on kitchen tours. Kari Schrader, Community Life Services Director, organizes these tours for approximately eight residents at a time.
“It’s the residents’ attitude towards the staff that makes our lives better each day,” said Jeff.
Jeff loves that each day as a kitchen manager is never the same and can change by the hour. After working an office job for three years, he learned that sitting at a desk was not for him. Each day in this industry holds its own challenges and rewards.
“The Ardenwoods kitchen and dining experience is unique because they have a captive and invested audience,” said Jeff. “It allows us to fine-tune what we do for our residents, as they are always repeat guests; unlike a restaurant with a new group of people each day.”
Jeff notes that the Ardenwoods Food and Beverage Director, Bill McBee, has had a meaningful impact on him while working at Ardenwoods, and he is thankful for Bill’s bountiful knowledge, kind soul and patience, which are qualities that are hard to come by in most chefs.
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys travelling with his wife of twenty-three years and spending time with his three children. He especially enjoys playing basketball with his son.
Thanks to the entire Ardenwoods kitchen staff for their hard work and great food, and to Jeff for his many years of superb leadership and management. Learn more about dining options at Ardenwoods here.
