Being a chef in a senior living community is so much more than just cooking - it’s about creating experiences, nurturing well-being, and bringing joy through food.
Meet Chef Sharif X. Tyler, a passionate and dedicated chef who has made it his mission to transform dining at Sun City Gardens into something truly special. With several years of experience in the culinary arts, Chef Sharif Tyler has worked in a variety of kitchens, but it’s here, among the residents, that he’s found his true calling.
Cooking for seniors requires more than just skill in the kitchen; it’s about understanding the nutritional needs and preferences of an older population. Chef Tyler has embraced this challenge with creativity and empathy, crafting menus that are not only nutritious but also diverse and full of flavor. From incorporating residents' favorite childhood dishes to introducing them to new culinary delights, he ensures that every meal is a memorable occasion.
We sat down with Sun City Gardens’ Food Service Director, Chef Sharif Tyler to ask a little bit about his background, what brought him to Senior Living, and explore how one chef’s passion for food is making a difference in the lives of those around him, one meal at a time.
When did your culinary career begin and what brought you to Sun City Gardens?
My culinary career and passion for cooking began the moment I could reach the stovetop. My love for cooking came from watching my mother and father continuously create and make family dinners, each more special than the last. My first official job was in an Italian restaurant in the Little Italy area of the Bronx, New York. This is where I began to test my creativity while being taught the ins and outs of what would become my sanctuary, the Kitchen.
I was given the opportunity to work in senior living by one of my childhood friends who happens to be the maintenance director at the Cottages at Hemet. I started working in Hemet, CA in July 2023, and roughly one year later I was offered an opportunity to work at a larger community, Sun City Gardens in Menifee.
What made you want to work in senior living? What do you enjoy most about working with seniors?
I very much enjoy working at Sun City Gardens, and the community is near and dear to my heart. I lost my grandmother to Alzheimer’s and I know in my heart of hearts this is exactly how I pay it forward, bringing together our residents through proper nutrition and diets, all while ensuring the food never lacks love.
What I enjoy the most about working at Sun City Gardens is knowing I am making a difference in the elderly community. Every plate and every meal is made with the hope that our residents thoroughly enjoy and are brought together in the best way I know how - with good food.
What is your favorite part about being a chef?
My favorite part of being a Chef is being able to use my creativity, teach others, and bring it all together on a plate. I get to meet new people and enjoy putting a smile on someone’s face after the first bite.
What is your favorite thing about working at Sun City Gardens?
Sun City Gardens has such a welcoming environment. I was instantly grateful to receive a warm welcome from my fellow staff and residents.
What inspired the dish you are sharing with us today?
What has inspired my dish is the beautiful garden our facility has and maintains, while considering health habits, nutrition, and restrictions of the majority of our residents.
Grilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients:
4 slices of Apple wood bacon
2 tablespoons butter
6 oz Chicken Breats
2 slices of Sourdough bread
2 slices of cheese
1 dilll pickles
1 tablespoon umami spice
1 tabespoon of cajun seasoning
Topped with Buttermilk Ranch
Want to learn more about a Sun City Gardens and our wonderful culinary team?
Reach out to us or schedule a personal tour and stay for a complimentary lunch!
