Horizon House Blog

Get to know our new Executive Chef Steve Carlson and hear about the new menu he and his team have created.

Chef Steve comes to Horizon House as a transplant from Southern California. He was born and raised in Redlands, which is located not too far from San Bernardino. Steve began his culinary career as a dishwasher when he was only 16 and by the time he reached his early twenties, he realized he not only enjoyed working in the food service industry but he “could do it.” From there, he received a series of promotions that led to increasingly responsible positions.

Steve worked in his hometown as the Executive Chef for Plymouth Village, a senior living community, for three years. He then traded rank for the chance to work in a more prestigious community and kitchen at The San Francisco Towers as the Executive Sous Chef. At the Towers he worked under Executive Chef Steve Moore for two years learning the ins and outs of fine dining and running a large scale kitchen. As the Sous Chef he was responsible for all things production including proper training of staff, product quality, and the overall cleanliness and sanitation of the culinary department. Steve was the conduit between the Executive Chef, back of house and front of the house.

Steve moved up to Seattle a few months ago to serve as Horizon House’s temporary Executive Chef but has enjoyed the past months so much, he’s decided to stay on officially as the Executive Chef. “I am eager to work with the team at Horizon House, excited to introduce new menu items, and explore new and different dishes with the residents here,” says Steve. “I have been overwhelmed by the welcoming nature of everyone at Horizon House and is extremely excited for the opportunity.”

Steve has already implemented many new menu changes, including a complete redesign of the menus. The old menus were “clunky and heavy,” but the new menus bring a refreshed and refined look to dining at Horizon House. They are easier to read, brighter, and simple to understand.

Executive Chef Steve Carlson has also rolled out new appetizers, and added new favorites (including a Beyond Meat burger!) to the menu. Residents were used to receiving weekly specials, but now experience daily specials that delight 7 days a week. Steve said it has been easy to make changes to the menu and he’s always open to feedback, but so far, things are running smoothly under our new Executive Chef. Welcome, Steve!