Eating Well at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes
“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M. Schulz, American cartoonist, and creator of “Peanuts” And with that, let’s delve into eating well at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes, where it’s more than just food … it’s an experience.
The Food
Each menu item at the Reserve in Sun Lakes focuses on healthy, seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients that respect and protect where our food comes from — Mother Earth. For example, our food includes whole grains, freshly baked breads and made-from-scratch sauces and dressings, plus we only purchase best-of-the-best meats and seafood. Indeed, the salmon we serve is wild-caught, our tuna is dolphin-safe and all animal proteins are no-antibiotics. We also feature a monthly “superfood,” a tasty treat that often surprises folks with its powerhouse nutrition — we’re talking sweet potatoes, cranberries and even one of Charles Schulz’s favorites … dark chocolate. Lastly, trans-fats, MSG and peanut oil are never used in the preparation of our food.
The Experience
Senior retirement living at the Reserve offers enjoyable experiences for independent living, assisted living and memory care. One experience, in particular, is the dining. We believe that every dish has a story to tell and we’re proud to honor that spirit with uniquely themed dining events with a storyline centered on amazing edibles and collective culinary experiences. Each highly entertaining affair offers an introduction to cultural arts and cuisine from around the globe. Plus, each event highlights the special foods that are woven into memory-laden occasions, whether that’s a joyful holiday meal shared with family and friends or a birthday bash from days gone by. Come hungry, leave satisfied — both physically and emotionally. Learn more about the dining options at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes and view a sample menu.
The Executive Chef
Marvin Kidd, Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes
Well-known and well-loved by Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes residents, Executive Chef, Marvin Kidd has worked in the food industry for most of his adult life, beginning when he was a cook in the U.S. Navy. Chef Marvin’s No. 1 goal is to ensure that the residents at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes are only offered tastebud-tempting, nutritious meals designed to nurture both body and soul. A true believer in keeping things fresh (in more ways than one!), Chef Marvin takes great pride and pleasure in creating new dishes and rotating menus — all while making sure that a variety of residents’ favorites are always available.
In addition, this culinary connoisseur is very cognizant of residents’ dietary needs and enjoys highlighting healthy-for-everyone options such as savory low-sodium soups and flavorful vegetarian entrees. And sshhh, we’ll let you in on a little secret: if you’ve got the fancies for something off-menu — maybe a nosh or nibble from your childhood or a mouthwatering morsel from “back home” — just let him know and he and his exceptional team will do their level-best to satisfy your craving. After all, their aim is to please your palate — what can we say, except mission accomplished!
Q&A with Chef Marvin at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes
They say the best path to someone’s heart is through food. The culinary team at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes works hard to prepare great meals that are both nourishing and satisfying. From a healthy, but hearty salad to a creamy chicken potpie, meals are prepared with love. Read our Q&A with Executive Chef Marvin from the Reserve in Sun Lakes to learn more.
Describe your background working with food.
I’ve been working with food for most of my life, so I know the ins and outs of almost every part of the food industry. Before coming to Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes, I did everything from working on the food line to managing kitchens. My start in the food industry was as a cook in the United States Navy, where I served for 6 years. After that, I was the kitchen supervisor for the University of Arizona. Now I’m here at the Reserve senior living community creating delicious meals for our residents.
What is the best part about being the Executive Chef at the Reserve at Sun Lakes?
The residents. Getting to know them and hearing their life stories. They have a lot of wisdom to share with you and stories of the way things used to be.
How do you describe your overall cooking philosophy?
Cooking is something you have to have a passion for. Cooking is love. If you care, you’ll put that love into the food you are making. In addition, you have to be able to accept criticism and challenges. Always be willing to learn.
The Importance of Eating Well as You Age
Eating well is important at any age, but it becomes particularly crucial as you age. As you get older, your body undergoes changes that can affect your ability to absorb nutrients from the food you eat. This can lead to a range of health issues, including malnutrition, a weakened immune system, cognitive decline, and chronic diseases.
Here are some of the reasons why eating well is important for seniors:
1. Maintains overall health: Eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help you maintain good health and prevent chronic diseases.
2. Boosts immunity: As you age, your immune system weakens, making you more susceptible to infections and diseases. A diet that is rich in nutrients can help boost your immunity and protect you from illnesses.
3. Reduces risk of chronic diseases: A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
4. Supports cognitive function: Research has shown that a healthy diet can support cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
5. Helps maintain a healthy weight: Eating a balanced diet that is low in processed foods and added sugars can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important for overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Overall, eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and low in processed foods is essential for maintaining good health for seniors. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs. The culinary team at the Reserve senior living community encourages personalized nutrition and welcomes resident feedback and suggestions to further enhance the dining options.
Eating Well at Robson Reserve in Sun Lakes
Senior living at the Reserve at Sun Lakes includes delectable dining options. From casual to elegant, you are sure to enjoy the food and each unique dining experience. Discover the high-quality food, outstanding services, and luxurious ambiance of this independent senior living community today.
Come visit us in the Chandler area!
Located in the East Valley near Chandler, Mesa, and Gilbert, the retirement community Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes offers stunning amenities and independent living, assisted living, and memory care living options. Contact us or stop in today!
Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes
9508 E. Riggs Road
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
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