Life Care Center of The Willows was awarded the highest possible honor of Top Chef at the 3rd annual Taste of Care on June 6 in Porter County, Indiana. Sponsored by Prompt Ambulance, the competition pitted 11 of the areas skilled nursing facilities and assisted livings against each other in a fierce but friendly contest to garner the most votes from “celebrity” judges in the community. The Willows won with chef Bernie Karlov’s recipe for slow cooked country style spare ribs, and chuck wagon slow simmered baked beans.
“Patients at The Willows are really enjoying Bernie’s style of cooking and his ability to perfectly season and prepare their favorite dishes. Now, it looks like the community agrees!” said Michelle Williams, director of dietary services at The Willows.
“We take our food services very seriously at The Willows, yet this was a great opportunity for our dietary staff to have fun as well. The winning recipes represent the high quality dishes we serve our patients every day. We are very excited to be recognized with Top Chef in such a prestigious competition,” said Tami Adams, executive director at The Willows.
The Willows presented their winning recipes with a country-western theme, decorating the serving tables in that style, and wearing cowboy hats as they dished the yummy samples. Many judges and attendees returned to the booth for seconds and even thirds after their initial tasting.
This year, Prompt Ambulance welcomed a $5 donation at the door for Taste of Care, with all proceeds benefiting Porter County Triad – a partnership between law enforcement, churches, advocacy groups, senior care facilities and others to address the needs of seniors in our communities. The Willows was proud to participate and looks forward to next year’s competition!
Photo: (l to r) Tami Adams, executive director, Wesley Tutterow, dietary services, and Michelle Williams, director of dietary services, receive the Top Chef award on behalf of The Willows at the Taste of Care Porter County.
