My dad recently had a hospital stay to get a pacemaker installed. He’s fine (hi Dad!), so this post isn’t about him, it’s about hospital food.

I don’t make a habit of being in the hospital, but I have been to one a number of times in my life. This is, however, the first time I’ve been to a hospital that provides room service.

And I don’t just mean Jello, applesauce, and ginger-ale…I’m talking about an entire menu of items to order for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. I’m sure that everything ordered will quickly show up on the bill, but let me tell you what I was able to get for $6.

First off, the menu is extensive – more extensive that many restaurants I’ve been to. You can order breakfast items, lunch/dinner, heart healthy options, and even some pretty tasty sounding/looking desserts.

If you’re a patient, the world is your oyster at the touch of a button – and if you’re a guest, it just takes a walk down to the cafeteria for purchase a voucher for $6, which then allows you to order anything you want from the patient room.

In one hour or less someone shows up, knocks on the door, and says – you got it…”Room Service!” It’s like being in a hotel full of sick people! (seriously – the woman in the room across from my dad had the most disgusting consistent cough I have EVER heard in my life)

Anyway…so I had some delicious grilled chicken fajitas with all the trimmings; dad had kabobs, french toast, sorbets, and all sorts of delicious yumminess. Frankly he ate better at the hospital than he does at home (read: Bojangles).

Take a look at the menu (click the images and they will open in larger format) – I bet some of you are going to invent an ailment just so you can experience this cuisine.

I think the next series of Hell’s Kitchen – the winner gets a job as head chef at a hospital.

I’m glad you’re OK dad…