Bring up the topic of hospital food and watch peoples eyes roll back in their head—
Like everything around us …this too is changing. The Henry Ford Heath System is challenging the common perceptions about hospital food with its innovative full service restaurant and ‘guest’ services that set a new benchmark for hospital dining. Before my introduction, I could never imagine using the words cuisine and hospital in the same sentence.
The concept of fine dining in a hospital originates with the Mr. Henry Ford himself, when he founded the original Henry Ford Hospital in 1915. His intention was to create a ‘hotel for sick people’. Fast forward 95 years and meet Executive Chef Frank Turner, an extraordinary chef, who is animated, knowledgeable, entertaining and happens to be a health care professional. Standing in his state of the art demonstration kitchen which seats 90 with TV cameras strategically placed so everyone has the best seat in the house, he explains his game changing strategy for making hospital cuisine resemble fine dining in a hotel. For instance, hospital guests order from a menu when they are ready to eat. Prices are printed on the menu so visiting family and friends can order and dine with you in your private room …knowing this speeds recovery.
Henry’s, the hospital cafe, is open to the public so you can enjoy gourmet nutritious food that combines the healthiest of ingredients in deliciously inventive ways, including many vegetarian options. Food can be enjoyed in food court style restaurant or as a convenient and healthy take-out option. Chef Turner is committed to using produce from local organic farms and sustainable agriculture, like the Chef’s Garden, who supply many of the ingredients.
The Demonstration Kitchen offers healthy cooking classes for members of the community as well as patients with specific illnesses like diabetes and cancer. Class feature delicious, healthy meal ideas to get you started on your individual path toward optimal wellness.
Henry’s Cafe is located on West Maple Rd between Drake and Halstead roads. Next time you are in the area, bring a friend. Henry’s cafe is worth a visit to see for your self.
Open Monday – Sunday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Click here to be introduced to Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hopsital Demonstration Kitchen
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Author & Photographer: Doug Elbinger, Elbinger Media Group, representing GreeningDetroit.com