Serving up smiles: How Chef Avi brings people together through food
For new BlueCare Azure Blue Carina Retirement Village chef, Chef Avi, food is about much more than what’s on the plate.
It’s about bringing people together, rekindling memories, nourishing the body and adding happiness to someone’s day.
Originally from Mauritius, Avi grew up in a family where cooking was part of everyday life. His mother was a chef, as is his brother, and some of his fondest memories are of the wonderful dishes his family prepared.
Inspired by family and driven by a passion for cooking
“My mum inspired me,” Avi said. “She cooked Mauritian food like curries, noodles and stews. I remember her ratatouille with fresh tomatoes, basil and olive oil. It was delicious.”
With 18 years of experience as a chef cooking in different countries, including a decade in Australia, Avi brings his love of food, creativity and international flavours to the Azure Blue retirement living community.
For Avi, the opportunity to cook for older Australians is particularly rewarding.
“Residents deserve good food in their retirement,” he said.
And while the flavours and dishes may vary, his philosophy is that food is something universally comforting.
“Food should make people happy,” he said. “If someone has had a bad day, a good meal can turn it around and bring something positive to their day.”
A taste of home and happiness
Avi understands that food has a special way of connecting people to memories, places and enjoyable experiences.
The aroma of a familiar dish or the first taste of an old favourite can transport someone back to childhood, family gatherings or special moments shared around the dinner table.
For older Australians, these connections can be particularly meaningful, offering comfort, familiarity and a sense of belonging.
Whether it's a traditional favourite or something new to try, Avi enjoys creating meals that residents genuinely look forward to.
His beef lasagne has already proven a hit at Carina, and he says hearty meals with delicious sauces and gravies remain popular.
Avi also enjoys Italian cooking, particularly pasta dishes featuring arrabbiata and seafood marinara. And the one ingredient he couldn't live without? Garlic.
“Garlic can transform a dish from something ordinary to extraordinary as it brings out the flavours,” he said.
Nourishing body and mind
While taste and enjoyment are essential, Avi also recognises the important role good nutrition plays in healthy ageing.
As we get older, eating well helps maintain strength, energy and independence. Protein is particularly important for maintaining muscle mass and supporting mobility, making balanced, nourishing meals an important part of everyday wellbeing.
For Avi, the challenge is combining these nutritional needs with the flavours, textures and familiar dishes residents enjoy.
But his greatest satisfaction comes from seeing residents enjoy what he's prepared.
“When I cook something and the residents are satisfied, and their plates are empty, that's what makes me happy,” he said.
