After months of planning, construction of the Governour’s Inne, Chesapeake Room, and restaurant lobby began on Monday, August 27, 2018. At the start of each phase of construction, the area was completely gutted to allow workers to start from scratch. For our residents’ convenience, our other dining venues offered new hours to serve lunch and dinner in the same manner. The Aster and Serpentine Rooms held additional seating, while the Towne Hall hosted our larger gatherings for holidays.
Phase 1
The first phase of renovations began in the Governour’s Inne. This dining venue has always been Riddle Village’s upscale, full-service restaurant. The goal of the redesign was to create a similar atmosphere, but with added features and amenities. For example, we were thrilled to introduce a heath oven, where residents can watch the chefs prepare specialty dishes very night.
Phase 2
Renovations continued into the restaurant lobby where brighter lights and paint colors make this area a perfect spot to socialize. New furniture and a convenient hostess stand have transformed it into an inviting waiting area before dinner. An added fireplace, which is partially located in the lobby and partially located in the Chesapeake Room, creates a relaxing place to spend with friends and family. According to Larry Bates, the Director of Dining, the renovations had both physical and atmospheric improvements.
“The overall renovation has led to a more elegant, yet casual experience for our residents,” Larry said. “The rooms are brighter and modern with intimate dining areas.”
Phase 3
The final phase ended with the completion of the Chesapeake Room, which tied together the entire restaurant area. While this venue has always been a relaxing self-service option, the new buffet set up allows wait staff to assist with serving food and answer any questions residents may have. With an open kitchen area, residents and their guests can also have a new dining experience with better access to our chefs. Additionally, the new equipment has allowed our culinary team to offer more menu items in both renovated restaurants.
“We now offer ala carte items in the Chesapeake room,” Larry said. “We have never done that in the past. We also offer pizzas and flatbreads from our hearth oven. The ala carte and menu items have been changed in the Governour’s Inne. We are continuing to incorporate new menu items regularly.”
With the renovations wrapped up, we are looking forward to work beginning in the Thoroughbred Lounge. This is Riddle Village’s very own cocktail lounge, which is a resident favorite for drinks, appetizers and socializing with fellow neighbors. In the summertime, outdoor seating under a covered patio makes this the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while observing all the courtyard action. The upcoming renovations will expand this area further out into the courtyard. We will also be increasing menu options to go beyond light appetizers. When the new Thoroughbred Lounge opens, our residents will be able to enjoy an additional restaurant featuring an innovative menu and a beautiful view overlooking the courtyard.
Riddle Village is continually striving to serve our residents better, and since dining is one of our residents’ favorite ways to socialize, we must keep these areas fresh and updated. With delicious menus and beautiful dining venues like ours, it is no wonder that our restaurants are so popular. Whether you’re enjoying a meal with your neighbors or if you have guests visiting, Riddle Village is happy to serve you!
See these beautiful renovations in person. Schedule your visit to Riddle Village today!
