By Laura Hipshire
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

A few months ago, Chef Terry Shuster of Fox Run, in Novi, decided it was time to change things up a bit at the community’s Fireside Restaurant.

He promptly ordered some cobalt blue plates and began planning “blue plate specials,” just like popular diners used in the 1950s.

Bring on the comfort food
Shuster says comfort food has always been popular.  “Comfort food is simple, delicious, homemade staples of typical American fare,” he says. Homestyle favorites such as smothered pork chops, country-fried chicken, and tuna noodle casserole are just a few examples of Shuster’s blue plate specials.

“Everyone seems to like them very well,” Shuster says. One favorite is a macaroni and cheese with Kowalski sausage. Another best seller is pot roast.

The specials are offered once a week. Fox Run’s other restaurants offer a variety of foods, including fare for the more health-conscious eater.

Shh, it’s a secret
Shuster and his culinary team sometimes don’t know what they’ll be preparing until Friday afternoon, and once it’s decided it remains a closely guarded secret until mealtime.

“That’s part of the program’s appeal. Diners are pleasantly surprised and comforted with blue plate specials,” Shuster says. Occasionally, Shuster digresses from the comfort food theme for blue plate specials and opts to serve fancier fare, such as duck breasts in a Grand Marnier roasted pecan butter sauce or rack of lamb.

“We mix it up with classic recipes as well as trendier dishes,” Shuster explains. “Our residents love the food and are excited to see what we come up with  next. The blue plate specials are a big departure from what one would expect to be served in a retirement community.”