Breaking the Myths of Food in Care Homes – One Meal at a Time

How Surbitonian Gardens in Surbiton, is Redefining Mealtimes and Food in Care Homes

At Surbitonian Gardens, nestled in the heart of Surbiton, we’re reimagining what mealtimes look and feel like in a care home setting — and in doing so, we’re helping to shift perceptions of modern care itself.

Gone are the days of rigid routines and uninspired menus. Food in care homes is so much more than a necessity — it’s a daily opportunity for connection, creativity, and choice.

Why Food Matters in Modern Care

Mealtimes at Surbitonian Gardens are moments to be enjoyed, not endured. Whether it’s a shared lunch full of laughter, a quiet breakfast tailored to individual routines, or a themed dinner inspired by residents’ memories, food here is deeply personal.

“It’s about choice, connection, and comfort. Our residents don’t just eat — they enjoy, participate, and thrive,” says Lucy Holmes, Head Chef at Surbitonian Gardens.

From freshly prepared seasonal dishes to inclusive resident tasting panels, every element of our dining experience is built around the people who live here. No matter your dietary needs, preferences, or cultural background, we work to make sure every plate feels like home.

Busting the Myths Around Food in Care Homes

There are plenty of outdated assumptions about food in care homes — and at Surbitonian Gardens, we’re here to challenge them. Here’s how:

Myth 1: “Care home food is boring.”
Truth: Our menus are colourful, flavourful, and inspired by our residents’ tastes, preferences and stories.

Myth 2: “Residents lose choice over what and when they eat.”
Truth: Mealtimes are flexible, and every resident has a say in what’s served and when.

Myth 3: “Mealtimes are rushed or isolating.”
Truth: They’re often the most joyful, social moments of the day — full of conversation and connection.

Myth 4: “Special diets mean bland food.”
Truth: From texture-modified dishes to diabetic-friendly desserts, we never compromise on flavour or presentation.

Myth 5: “Food in care has little impact on wellbeing.”
Truth: Great food supports memory, mood, hydration, and overall health — it’s care, served three times a day.

A Taste of Life at Surbitonian Gardens

Our kitchen is a space of innovation, inclusivity, and warmth — and it plays a vital role in the wider experience of life at our Surbitonian Gardens care home. We’re proud to serve food that not only nourishes the body, but also brings joy, sparks memories, and creates community.

So, whether you’re exploring care options in Surbiton or simply curious about what real, modern care looks like, know this: we’re breaking the myths, one delicious meal at a time.

Not in the Surbiton area? We have a variety of homes across the UK. Why not check out one of our other Anavo Care Homes? Visit one of homes this week and you might even get the opportunity try some of our care home food for yourself with a ‘taste of home’ at one of our Care Home Open Week Open Days.