Mark Kalla discusses cooking techniques and nutrition with Avalon senior citizens at Avalon Free Public Library.

Chef educates seniors on cooking tips, nutrition

AVALON -- Local chef Mark Kalla, of Cape May Court House, visited the Avalon Senior Center on Monday to lend his culinary expertise to Avalon residents at the Avalon Senior Center.

Kalla took time to come to the “Creative Cooking for Seniors” class for Avalon seniors, sponsored by the Avalon Free Public Library. He is well known in the local restaurant business as he developed the menus and business model for the Avalon Anchorage Marina. Kalla also worked at Caesars in Atlantic City, TGI Fridays, the Back Yard and Fish Tails in Stone Harbor.

The seniors were taught how to prepare dishes that include smoked chicken and butternut squash soup, roasted pork loin with pepper relish, saffron mashed potatoes and Crème Brulée.

Kalla was presented with a gift from Mayor Martin Pagliughi, Avalon council members and Business Administrator Andrew Bednarek. Avalon Council President Dave Ellenberg presented the gift to Kalla.

Kalla is currently the Food Service Director of the Avalon Elementary School and has his own business, “Kalla Creations.”