Page 9 - The Clare Connection_Summer 2020 Flipbook

employees took orders and answered
questions. And with the bar closed,
The Clare Bartender Jackie Milano
took her services on wheels, delivering
glasses of wine and specialty drinks to
residents at their doors.
On average, The Clare now completes
between 350 and 370 meal deliveries
on a daily basis. Breakfast and dinner
tend to be the busiest, averaging
about 150 deliveries each.
“The fact that the kitchen produces
meals three times daily and delivers
each and every order to those living
at The Clare is nothing short of
phenomenal,” Clare resident Marilyn
Day says.
Through these changes and more, the
goal has always been to maintain The
Clare standard on each day’s menu. Executive Chef Hagop Hagopian prepares
Options have included filet mignon, salmon filets for dinner service at The Clare.
rack of lamb, duck breast, Ora King
salmon, and swordfish, among others. delivery is certainly an adjustment, but program, and everyone is looking
“Offering the same quality menus that it’s one that residents understand is forward to some sense of normalcy
we had in our dining rooms has been necessary, and they are undoubtedly in the coming months. But all those
a priority for us, as it allows for some appreciative. involved have demonstrated resilience
normalcy in our residents’ lives during “We have experienced an outpouring and high spirits every step of the way.
such trying times,” Francesco says. of gratitude and an incredible display “The culture of being open to change
“It is also uplifting for our team to of patience from residents as we work and looking for ways to always
know that we are not compromising through these changes,” Francesco improve existed before this situation,
our service standards because of the says. “Their feedback is what keeps us and it has served us well.” Francesco
challenges we encounter. We are The motivated to continue to do more and says. “If anything, the lesson we will
Clare, and pushing limits is what we do better.” hold onto is to be grateful for the
do.”
Overall, there’s no question that resources we have and our team’s
And since holidays at The Clare are the current restrictions presented commitment to keep going no matter
always culinary events, it has been unique challenges to The Clare dining the challenges.”
important to maintain celebratory
food offerings, as well.
“I am especially grateful for the
unexpected preparation of special
meals for holiday celebrations,” Clare
residents Renee Zellner says. “Without
being asked, the Dining Services team
surprised us with traditional foods
for Passover and Easter, among other
holidays.”
Of course, Clare residents have had
to adapt to a new normal, as well.
Dining at The Clare is as much of a
social event as it is a culinary one,
and residents enjoy the freedom of Dining Director Francesco Tardio organizes
exploring Chicago’s dining scene, lunch orders for delivery to residents.
too. Relying so heavily on in-house