Executive Chef Joseph Stephens, affectionately known simply as 'Chef' at Christie Gardens, is in charge of anything to do with food from "Alfalfa Sprouts to Zucchini" he says with a big smile and a sparkle in his eyes. His love for cooking and seniors is evident as he takes a moment from preparing a Gala Christmas Dinner to talk with me.

"I chose Christie Gardens because it has the best food in the City", Winifred Stewart

Joseph Stephens joins the ranks of renowned Chefs who have travelled the world cooking for the rich and famous; Elizabeth Taylor and Roger Moore to name just two! Chef has an impressive professional background working in international hotels, SuperClubs in Aruba and the Caribbean, and closer to home at the Royal Montreal Golf Club. He explains that these wonderful places have all been his training ground.

Chef even moved into a hotel in Washington, DC for seven weeks so he could cook for Elizabeth Taylor, while she starred in her last play. With over 35 countries and 36 cities of experience, Chef continues to do what he enjoys most:

"making people happy by putting it on the plate", Executive Chef Joseph Stephens

It’s clear that service comes naturally as Chef recounts stories of his apprenticeship in Germany. On the few days he had off he would volunteer by assisting shut-in seniors with brief journeys out of their homes. Chef recalls carrying down seniors in wheelchairs from a 5 storey walk-up to simply share with them the gift of the day, the fresh air, and the beauty of life outdoors.

Chef explains that growing up in India under British rule, cooking was contrary to the culture. Chef explains "this passion for cooking was larger than me, it was the spirit within me, and it came naturally with ease and grace". Food and feeding people was his guiding force and clearly remains so to this day.

"this passion for cooking was larger than me, it was the spirit within me, and it came naturally with ease and grace", Executive Chef Joseph Stephens

Asked what he most enjoys cooking, Chef replied, "preparing fresh produce the colours that God has made gives me the most joy". As Julia Child once stated 'you don't have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces - just good food from fresh ingredients'. Chef joins Child as masters in their field. Chef is scheduled to join Christie residents on an upcoming luncheon at 'The Chef's House', George Brown College's new culinary restaurant. Outside the kitchen, Chef continues his volunteer work with much heart and soul. He has a great respect for seniors and what they have to offer. Asked about his biggest challenge he replied "breakfast, lunch and dinner, pleasing the maximum amount of people".

"the colours of fresh produce that God has made gives me the most joy", Executive Chef Joseph Stephens

Christie Gardens' residents tend herb gardens, share recipes and participate in Chef 's Cooking Classes. Here Chef demonstrates the tools of his trade, how to look at ingredients differently, and how not to be afraid of what you don't know. Chef's next class features 'The Taste of Asia' which no doubt will pack the auditorium with eager cooks wishing to see the master at work! Clearly a win-win for both Chef and Christie Gardens. Now close to family after travelling extensively for many years, Joseph can enjoy this second half of life and those lucky residents of Christie Gardens are treated like royalty as he creates good food from fresh ingredients daily.

The fuss over food at Christie Gardens continues.

Table for Two Please!