Shane McNeil, formerly of Bridges Restaurant, is the new executive chef at Weinberg Residence. (photo from Weinberg Residence)
For the Weinberg Residence’s recently hired executive chef Shane McNeil, formerly of Bridges Restaurant, his new job is about more than just cooking great-tasting kosher food.
“What I love about cooking is that it puts a smile on people’s faces, which gives me a lot of satisfaction. My philosophy on cooking is simple: use the freshest ingredients possible, local when available, and let the ingredients speak for themselves. I tend to use a nice light seasoning or sauce, so the quality of the ingredients really stands out,” explained McNeil, who began at the Jewish seniors home in September 2015. “I also like to check in with the residents pretty much every day. Getting that regular feedback from them is really important, as it helps me become a better chef and gives me the pleasure of knowing that I’m a bright spot in their day.”
McNeil’s lifelong passion for cooking began as a young man in Toronto, where he attended George Brown College’s Chef School, which counts several internationally recognized chefs among its graduates. He then relocated to Vancouver, where he excelled under the tutelage of local talents, chefs Scott Kidd and Chef Dino Gazzola of Raincity Grill and Bridges Restaurant.
McNeil’s culinary acumen has already begun to have a considerable impact at the Weinberg Residence. His roasted sablefish with orange-ginger glaze and green-beans almondine, his Italian beef stew with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted corn and his sockeye salmon farfale with ratatouille are all garnering praise. His incorporation of classic French culinary techniques with contemporary flair showcases the fresh, local and seasonal ingredients of the West Coast.
“The food is absolutely delicious. He’s an excellent chef who’s open to suggestions. He made a polenta lasagna the other night that was absolutely wonderful and he makes the best cheese sandwiches I’ve ever tasted!” said resident Sheila Cantor.
The residence executive is also pleased. “We are extremely grateful and very excited to have such an exceptional chef on our team and we look forward to this exciting enhancement to our hospitality offering,” said Vanessa Trester, gerontologist and leader of the Weinberg.
To share the good news with the community about the new dishes being served at the Weinberg Residence, if you, your spouse or family member is considering assisted living or multi-level care, the Weinberg is currently offering a complimentary lunch when you book a tour. To make a reservation, call Trester at 604-267-4722.