The Blakehurst Renovations Include More Ways to Enjoy the Communities Stellar Cuisine
As part of Blakehurst’s $16 million renovation project, the already exceptional dining experience at the region’s premiere senior living community is about to get even better.
Soon, residents and guests will have three different remarkable venues — each with their own kitchens, menus, and style — to choose from. The more formal and traditional Chesapeake dining room will get a refreshed look but will continue to serve the same level of refined, fine-dining cuisine its patrons currently enjoy. The popular Terrace Bistro, which offers casual dining three meals a day, will be showcasing its popular grill menu. The brand-new Ridge pub will feature elevated pub food and lighter options in a relaxed setting.
Plus, residents who wish to dine at home can opt for the convenience of takeout from the kitchen or a grab-and-go meal from the newly reimagined corner store.
These deliciously distinctive dining experiences at Blakehurst will be led by new Food and Beverage Director Steve Newcombe and long-time Executive Chef Sung Pak.
From Scratch and From Experience: The Blakehurst Difference
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting favorite like perfectly prepared salmon or a made-to-order filet mignon, or you’re ready to lean into nature’s bounty and explore the season’s freshest produce in a crisp and satisfying salad, or you prefer exploring new trends and international flavors, or you just want a tasty burger, Blakehurst’s fare is sure to please.
“I’ve worked at retirement communities and fine dining restaurants,” says Newcombe, who brings 30 years of experience to his new position. “And I have to say that I’ve been very impressed with the care and attention that our remarkable team of chefs gives to each and every dish we serve at Blakehurst. There are restaurants in Baltimore and DC that aren’t doing all the things that our chefs do to ensure that our residents enjoy a superior dining experience.”
The best food comes from the freshest ingredients, which is why Blakehurst’s kitchens make everything from scratch, sourced daily from local markets.
“At Blakehurst, from scratch means from scratch,” explains Newcombe. “Chef Pak doesn’t buy chops and filets. He’s breaking down all the meats and whole fishes himself. He even makes his own stocks, roasting down bones and vegetable trimmings and leaving them overnight. In the morning, he filters the broth to make the beautiful stocks we use as the base for all our sauces and soups. A lot of time and effort goes into preparing the recipes here, but the results are unbelievable.”
Another key component of Blakehurst’s culinary success is the rich depth of experience that Chef Pak himself brings to the kitchen — the beloved Executive Chef is currently celebrating his 30th anniversary at the community. His long tenure is highly unusual in senior living circles and speaks to his ability to please even the most discerning and well-traveled palates.
“When cooks who have worked with other retirement communities join our team, they are often very surprised during their first week here,” says Newcombe. “At our community, we take pride in our commitment to freshness and quality. We prepare dishes from scratch, whether it’s breaking down tenderloins or roasting whole chickens. This dedication to homemade meals is a hallmark of our approach, ensuring our residents enjoy dishes like scallops, duck, frog legs, and signature crab cakes. Even our everyday meals, such as sandwiches and spaghetti, are crafted with fresh ingredients and special in-house touches that make them truly unique.”
Healthy and Plant-based Options
As part of Blakehurst’s vibrant wellness-focused lifestyle, the community offers flavorful, healthier options on its menus to support overall well-being and special dietary needs.
“In addition to several residents avoiding sodium or who have food sensitivities, we have a growing number of vegetarians on campus,” says Newcombe. “So, we offer low-sodium, gluten-free, and vegetarian entrées every day. Plus, about 75% of our other meals can be made vegetarian on request and we’re including an increasing number of plant-based proteins on our menus, things like vegetarian meatballs, impossible burgers, vegan sausages, and even poke bowls with tofu instead of ahi tuna.”
Offering customized dishes to serve specific needs and tastes is in line with Blakehurst’s overall mission of providing resident-focused offerings. “Many communities say that they personalize their services and offerings to the needs and desires of residents,” says Newcombe. “But Blakehurst genuinely does it.”
New Venue to Continue the Tradition of Excellence
When the Ridge pub opens, it will bring a new level of flexibility for diners at Blakehurst.
“The Ridge is the facet of the renovations that residents are most excited about,” says Newcombe. “It will be the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat or share a drink or appetizers with friends in a relaxed setting. But despite the cozy, laid-back ambiance, the food and service will remain top-notch. There will be a new full exhibition kitchen back there with the chefs preparing elevated pub fare from the freshest ingredients.”
To learn more about all the exciting renovations in store for Blakehurst, visit https://blakehurstlcs.com/renovations/.
If you and your family would like to schedule a visit to Blakehurst to tour its beautiful 40-acre campus in Towson, Md. – and sample its premier dining options —please call 410-441-5996 or visit https://blakehurstlcs.com/contact/.