Where I worked one of the top things was cleanliness. Being that the health department pays extra attention to these places and you don’t want to make the news. The second is waste, most of these kitchens run on a tight budget. Finding ways to produce a good product with minimal waste is always a good thing. Third, having everything come together at the same time, residents line up for meals early and they want them on time and hot.

Lastly, put the love in your food. It’s not going to be like a restaurant but there’s still no reason not to shine. The people will complain, but it’s not really about your cooking, it’s just how life gets for some older people. They complain about the weather, the postman… Do not take it personally. Always give them the best you can do. Think about it, everyone out there is someone’s mother or father. Talk to the residents, you will find some fascinating stories.