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At Alto Evergreen Walk, dining is more than just a meal—it’s a meaningful experience shaped by passion, creativity, and connection. We sat down with Executive Chef Carlos Pulido to learn more about his journey, inspiration, and what makes dining in the community so special.
What inspired you to pursue a career in culinary arts?
Growing up, my parents had a Chinese restaurant, and even though at first I didn’t like the kitchen, eventually it grew on me, and it ended up becoming my passion.
How did you find your way into senior living dining?
Once COVID started and I got furloughed at my job back then, I started looking for a job and senior living were some of the only places hiring. Before that, it was never on my radar, but I’m glad I found it because I love it, and I haven’t looked back since.
What experiences from your culinary journey have shaped the chef you are today?
After graduating culinary school, I worked at resorts in Cancun and high-end hotels and restaurants in Washington, DC. Each experience exposed me to different styles of cuisine ranging from Italian to Asian to American, giving me a well-rounded culinary background.
Can you describe your approach to menu planning and seasonal dishes?
I try to put myself in the residents’ place and imagine what I would like to eat on a regular basis. We aim for a good mix of comfort favorites with special dinners where we go all out, all while keeping dishes seasonal and fresh.
How do you incorporate resident feedback into the menu?
I meet with residents regularly and we discuss what they like and what they would like to see. I take that feedback and incorporate it into our menu. Whatever works best for most residents, we keep, and we’re always looking for ways to improve—it’s a constant evolution.
What are some signature dishes or resident favorites you're known for?
Our soups have been a resident favorite since day one. Our special dinners are also very popular, especially dishes like salmon, rack of lamb, and beef tenderloin.
How do you accommodate special diets or health-focused dining needs?
We work closely with our amazing nursing team to ensure that residents with dietary needs—such as gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, or allergies—always have options and never feel left out.
How do you create a positive kitchen culture for your culinary team?
When we first opened the community, I had a clear idea of who I wanted on the team—people who are strong team players and genuinely care about residents. I believe if you take care of your staff, they will take great care of your residents, and that has been true for us.
What do you enjoy most about cooking for seniors?
The familiarity that comes with cooking for the same residents every day. You get to know them and their preferences, and it’s very rewarding to see the positive impact you can have on their lives.
Do you have a favorite memory or moment from working with residents?
We have a resident who played pickleball back in the 1970s when the sport first started. I began playing around the same time I started working in senior living, so we sometimes play together in the community. She shares stories about playing with her husband and friends—it’s truly heartwarming.
What’s one fun fact about you that may surprise people?
After graduating high school, I went to college four different times for completely different majors, but none of them felt right. My sister suggested culinary school, and it ended up being the one thing I never got bored of.
If you could cook a meal for anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
My mom. I only see her once a year, and she has the beginning stages of Alzheimer's disease. It means the world to me to cook something she used to make for us and hear her share stories we’ve probably heard a million times.
What are your favorite ingredients or cuisines to work with?
I enjoy simple, versatile ingredients that can completely transform depending on how you use them—like leeks, fennel, potatoes, and carrots. In the winter, I love pairing them with citrus, and I’m always excited to see what new ingredients each season brings.
Through his passion, creativity, and genuine care for residents, Chef Carlos Pulido continues to elevate the dining experience at Alto Evergreen Walk—one thoughtful, delicious dish at a time.
To learn more about Alto Evergreen Walk, click here.
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