The heart of every MBK Senior Living community is the seniors we serve. These amazing adults have led full, rich lives. Their contributions are many and span the workforce, charitable organizations, the armed services, educating and mentoring the next generation, and so much more. In our eyes, they are celebrities in their own right and should be treated like the stars – you can bet Executive Chef Anthony Vo is doing just that!
A Sacramento native, Chef Vo attended San Juan High School, where he participated in the culinary program. From there, he worked in a number of well-known area restaurants, being mentored by top chefs. Today, he's using his culinary talent for MBK's Almond Heights community in Orangevale, California. Recently, Chef Vo's amazing work was featured on two local newscasts – Fox Studio 40 and CBS 31.
"At Almond Heights, we love to put a twist on fresh, farmed, and forked foods for our seniors," Chef Vo said while being interviewed by anchors Gary Gelfand and Scott Monk on Fox's Live40.
"I could guess that you want to treat them [residents] the way they deserve, but to go all the way in – that's super cool," said Gelfand.
"Just the finishing touches he does on the dishes, the intention to make sure it looks beautiful, like at a 5-star kitchen, just really sets us [Almond Heights] apart and shows how much Chef Vo cares for our residents," said Breanna Grindel, Director of Sales for Almond Heights.
"That's incredible," responded Monk.
Chef explained the lengths he goes to ensure residents thoroughly enjoy the MBK Cuisine offered at Almond Heights. By providing "All-Day Dining," residents can eat at times convenient for them and have the option of new specials daily and 12 menu items that are "fan favorites." Chef Vo meets regularly with residents to discuss the menu, share new recipes, and ensure their taste buds and nutritional needs are met as part of the star treatment.
"They are all going to have likes and dislikes. Maybe things they're allergic to or don't want to try, and you manage that all," said Gelfand.
Chef Vo showcased some of the amazing menu items he regularly cooks at Almond Heights, including sous vide lamb chops with European butter sauce, fresh asparagus with grapefruit and onion ash, and kiwi cake with chocolate ganache and blackberries.
"Chef Vo just blew our minds," said Monk.
"You're doing amazing stuff there," added Gelfand.
Local CBS reporter Tina Macuha echoed the sentiment.
"I met Chef Vo at a local competition and was so impressed with him," she told audiences to start her segment highlighting the Almond Heights' monthly "Action Stations."
Action Stations are another way for residents and Chef Vo to interact and showcase MBK Cuisine. Residents savor the warm aroma of cooking as they watch live demos and enjoy selecting made-to-order dishes.
MBK Cuisine is the right mix of choice food selections, comfort food, culinary creativity, hospitality, and customer service. What foodie or celebrity wouldn't love that?
Want to receive the star treatment too? There's always room for you at our table. Call today to schedule a tour and complimentary lunch at Almond Heights.