When revisiting the community’s pub menu, Tapestry at Village Gate West’s Executive Chef, Tiffany Pacheco, wanted to shake things up. Much like how Tapestry is not a “typical” retirement community, Tiffany wanted to push the boundaries of what people perceive as typical pub food and bring new healthy and delicious options to our residents.

Tiffany’s creative approach to creating the new pub menu was inspired by a recent visit to all three of Tapestry’s British Columbia communities where she had the opportunity to see and taste first-hand how Tapestry delivers a high-end culinary experience from coast to coast.

“It was great to meet everyone at Tapestry who is so passionate about creating a memorable experience for our residents,” says Tiffany. “It was also great ‘talking shop’ with fellow culinarians to learn how they create an authentically local dining experience in their respective communities.”

Inspired by her travels, Tiffany was eager to let her creativity and passion shine. The new Black Alder Pub menu features a variety of unique items that combine pub favourites with a healthy twist. Delightful new options include a Smoked Arctic Char Niçoise salad, a Brûléed Brie and a Mini Macaroni and Cheese baked to perfection with a parmesan crust. Working with Tapestry dietician, Jessica Wang, helped Tiffany achieve the perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

Tiffany drew inspiration from her Portuguese roots and her love for seafood to influence the menu while also working with local suppliers like Etobicoke’s Mr. Produce and the Butcher Shoppe to use in-season ingredients to build dishes around. Tiffany says the menus been well received by community members and she encourages diners to provide continued feedback.

Tiffany, who has been with the community for almost six years, loves the creative aspects of her role and preparing food, especially offering cooking demonstrations for residents.

“Cooking is and should be a lot of fun,” says Tiffany. “When hosting cooking demos for Tapestry residents, I remind them if you keep it simple and have fun, you will never be disappointed with the outcome. Enjoy the process!”