Where Everyone Knows Your Name: The Gathering Place at Monarch Landing in Naperville

It’s bustling, filled with chatter, laughter, and congeniality.

The Gathering Place at Monarch Landing is aptly named. It is the senior living community’s fabulous new bar where friends and neighbors like to hang out together…to gather. Whether one wants a beverage, snack, or meal or simply wants to visit and laugh (there’s a lot of laughter going on), the Gathering Place is the perfect venue

The Gathering Place first opened several months ago. It dramatically enhances the entire bar experience at Monarch Landing retirement community by offering a bright and beautiful dedicated setting with space to socialize.

Joshua Busch, the beloved bartender/supervisor, is largely responsible for the atmosphere of conviviality that thrives at the Gathering Place. With a background in hospitality and culinary arts, he’s perfectly suited to making the residents feel doted upon. He noted that while the growing wine list, bottled and draft beers, beautifully crafted cocktails and mocktails, and delectable menu of small plates and appetizers are a draw, the Gathering Place is about so much more than all that.

Joshua noted that the Gathering Place eases the way for residents to develop friendships. He said that it is increasingly attracting those who traditionally might not be out socializing, by inspiring camaraderie and connection.

While being developed, The Gathering Place was eagerly anticipated, but the truth is it has exceeded expectations. Far exceeded. Lots of people like to hang out there. On Fridays, Josh said there are likely to be more than 100 people coming in for happy hour. Open every weekday and also on Sundays during Bears’ season and special events, they eventually hope to have more hours during weekends

Residents Donna and Roy Fonda are testament to the venue’s popularity, saying they will either arrange to meet friends there before dinner or just wander down and connect with whoever is already there. “If we don’t know someone, we’ll just introduce ourselves,” said Donna. “We don’t come down every day, but it’s nice to have the opportunity.”

Roy said that the ‘vibe’ of The Gathering Place reminds him of the -sitcom Cheers but that Joshua totally outshines the bartender, Sam Malone. Not only does he know everyone’s name, but also their favorite drink. “He’ll be pouring their cocktail before they’re even through the doorway,” Roy said.

Monarch Landing

Monarch Landing is a Life Plan Community located on a scenic campus in Naperville, Illinois-named “one of America’s best places to live and retire” by Modern Maturity, and “the best city for early retirement” by Kiplinger. Monarch Landing offers independent living, promoting a vibrant lifestyle for active seniors.  The Springs at Monarch Landing offers memory supported assisted living, respite care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing services, thus providing complete continuing care for seniors. Monarch Landing is owned by Senior Care Development and managed by Life Care Services®. For additional information visit www.WelcomeToMonarchLanding.com or www.TheSpringsatMonarchLanding.com.