For Head Chef Evan Neal, food has always been more than a profession; it’s a lifelong passion rooted in creativity, connection, and care. At Barclay Friends, Evan contributes his skills and experience as part of the culinary team, balancing artistry and simplicity with residents at the center. His journey from bustling restaurants to senior living reflects both a dedication to craft and a desire for meaningful connection.
“What stands out most about Evan is his dedication to residents,” says Brianna Morales, Director of Culinary Services. “He takes the time to listen, to adjust, and to make meals not only nourishing but enjoyable. We’re fortunate to have him contributing his talents here at Barclay Friends.”
In this Staff Spotlight, Evan shares what inspires him, his diverse culinary background, and what makes working at Barclay Friends so rewarding.
What first inspired you to pursue a career in the culinary field?
I have always been passionate about food, and I love the active nature of cooking professionally.
Can you share a bit about your background and the types of dining environments you worked in before joining Barclay Friends?
I’ve had the opportunity to work in a wide range of restaurants, including Stone Tavern, TJ Restaurant and Drinkery, PF Chang’s, Teca, General Warren Inn, Suburban Restaurant and Beer Garden, Gilmore’s, and Green Street Grill. Each experience exposed me to different styles, from classic cuisine and weddings, to farm-to-table, French fine dining, craft beer pairings, and busy breakfast service.
What drew you to Barclay Friends and the opportunity to be on the culinary team here?
Work-life balance and a more peaceful environment are the reasons I transitioned to senior living. The position at Barclay Friends has provided both beyond my expectations.
Learn more about careers at Barclay Friends
How does preparing meals in a senior living community differ from your experiences in restaurants or other hospitality settings?
Simplicity is the key ingredient I have found here at Barclay Friends. It’s a lot of classics and home-style cuisine. I just want to make sure they are executed well with proper technique.
What do you find most rewarding about serving older adults through dining and hospitality services?
The sense of community is the most rewarding aspect of working at Barclay Friends. I enjoy getting to know the residents and staff.
Is there a particular dish or type of cuisine you enjoy creating for residents, and why?
Everything on the menu. I enjoy the responsibility of being the residents’ connection to safe, nutritious, and delicious food.
How do you and the culinary team approach incorporating seasonal or local ingredients into menus?
Brianna does an outstanding job of engineering the menu around the seasons, which gives me the ability to serve as much fresh produce as possible. I’ve also been given a small herb garden to steward, and we use the herbs in daily food preparation.
Read more: Rooted in Community: How Gardening Enriches Life at Barclay Friends
What role does resident feedback play in shaping dining experiences at Barclay Friends?
I receive feedback every day when I interact with the residents and it is much appreciated. Feedback helps me tweak dishes to make them more palatable or order a special snack. There are regular dining committee meetings, so all residents have an equal opportunity to voice their opinions.
What do you hope residents, families, and staff feel when they sit down to a meal prepared by the team?
First, I hope the food is delicious and nutritious — that’s my responsibility. Beyond that, I hope meals are an opportunity for residents to socialize and have honest interactions with each other and staff.
How does the Barclay Friends culinary team give back to the local community?
We prepare lunches for Meals on Wheels. It’s a great opportunity to help those in our community facing food insecurity.
Evan’s story is a reminder that food is more than nourishment. Through his creativity and care, Evan helps ensure that dining at Barclay Friends is an experience that brings people together around the table in meaningful ways.