Steven Patterson, Culinary Manager, Riverwood Healthcare Center
Riverwood Healthcare Center recently welcomed Steven Patterson to a newly created position as culinary manager. He oversees daily operations of Riverwood’s Food Service department and staff.
“Steve brings fresh ideas, recipes, cooking techniques and management skills to enhance the department,” said Lou Ann Carlson, food service manager. “With his many years of experience in food preparation and management, we are thrilled to welcome him to our staff.”
Patterson began his career in food service at age 15 as a bus boy for a New Hope restaurant in the Twin Cities. Right out of high school he became the cook and assistant manager at the Sears Country Inn Cafeteria. He worked as a line cook for several years, then moved into a management program. At age 19, he operated a restaurant in downtown Minneapolis.
“It turned out I was pretty good at managing, especially turning struggling or non-compliant places around,” Patterson said. “I managed seven different restaurants for that company over the next 10 years. I also got married, and had five children during that time.”
He went on to manage food operations for a large hotel, then spent 25 years as a district manager for a regional food service management company. Most recently, he was the culinary director for a large senior retirement campus.
Patterson added: “I became a district manager, as well as the corporate culinary trainer. I was able to travel around the country instructing cooks and chefs on culinary arts. I managed multiple facilities, mostly in health care. I attended many trainings, events and trade shows, and instructed at many also.”
After the death of his wife from cancer a few years ago, Patterson decided he needed a life change and moved to his vacation home in Crosslake.
Patterson loves the team environment at Riverwood and the opportunity to share his knowledge of culinary skills gathered over his long career.
“I’ve enjoyed every minute I have been here,” Patterson said. “I look forward to doing additional wonderful things in the culinary department at Riverwood Healthcare Center.”