Woodhaven man serves up so much more

Sometimes those who serve their country overseas come back to their roots and serve others closer to home.
Woodhaven’s Robert Rosario, 45, is one example. The former combat marine in the Persian Gulf War now works as executive chef at the Glenridge Senior Center in Ridgewood.
More than just a cook at the facility, Rosario is an integral part of the community, providing the elderly residents with the care and attention they deserve.
“Seniors are overlooked these days,” said Rosario. “We need to let them know that they are not forgotten.”
All meal preparations are based on “The Nutritional Services Management Manual” from the city Department for the Aging (DFTA).
But Rosario not only provides members with the nutrition they need, he also gives them a taste of culture that they might not otherwise get.
“All meals meet nutritional standards, but we try to put a twist on them,” he said. “We want to do a couple of different cuisines from different cultures to try and satisfy their needs and maybe even remind them of their home.”
Not satisfied with his job as a letter carrier after the war, Rosario followed the advice of friends and family to follow his true passion, cooking.
“My mom was a great cook and it was always something I wanted to do,” he said. “My friends and family encouraged me, so I enrolled myself in the Institute of Culinary Training.”
From there, Rosario worked in corporate dining rooms, ABC Studios and the Museum of Natural History, but it was working with other young chefs where he found his niche as a culinary instructor in the New York City school system.
He started working as executive chef at the Senior Center on October 14, and provides 70-80 meals per day.
“I’ve been lucky with a great family and great opportunities in life,” he said. “It’s important to give back. I’ve had a lot of people help me throughout my career.”