The Ruby at The Village of Erin Meadows was packed with loved ones from around the world to celebrate Mary Frattini’s 95th birthday party, and it was an event to remember. Mary’s daughter Jean, alongside her sister Sue and their husbands, hosted a dinner for 33 loved ones from as far away as Dubai, Nevada, and North Carolina.
“It made sense to have the celebration in the Ruby, since Mom rarely leaves Erin Meadows anymore,” Jean explains. “The team under (Chef) Bea’s direction set the space beautifully with cloths and flowers, and we added our own 95th decorations. There was even room for a big craft table for the great-grandkids to play, and lots of space for visiting.”
Over four hours, Mary’s “whole family” — her five grandsons and their wives, seven great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends — gathered in The Ruby to reminisce, share photos, and enjoy a buffet dinner together. “It proved to be such a special day,” Jean reflects. “Mom was in good spirits and so enjoyed spending time with everyone. She still marvels that her whole family came together from all over the world.”
Stories like this are exactly what brings The Ruby to life. For Chefs Bea and Harpreet, the restaurant environment on the 12th Floor with its sprawling views, is much more than a dining space — it’s a canvas for celebration, where the art of hospitality transforms meals into memories.
“It started with a bridal shower,” says Bea, who came to Erin Meadows after running the Ruby at The Village of Glendale Crossing in London. “The guests loved the view and the food, and word spread from there. Soon we were hosting milestone birthdays, baby showers, anniversaries — some for residents, some for families — and each one added to the Ruby’s reputation.”
Bea’s joy comes from helping bring all the details together. “My favorite part isn’t just the cooking,” she admits. “It’s seeing families bring their own decorations, their centerpieces, their balloons — and then helping it all come together. That’s hospitality: it’s about making memories.”
Harpreet, who draws on his years of experience in fine hotels and culinary teaching, brings the same mindset. “For me, it’s about giving families that wow factor,” he says. “I love explaining the food, telling the story of the cuisine, and making sure every detail adds to the celebration. Seeing people happy and satisfied — that’s what motivates me.”
From karaoke nights and family barbecues to milestone birthdays like Mary’s, the Ruby continues to build its reputation as a place where joy, hospitality, and community come together. With the passion of its chefs and support from the recreation and marketing teams, the restaurant has become a showcase for all the warmth and creativity of Village Life.
As Jean puts it, reflecting on the milestone event: “We are so glad that we could all be there to celebrate Mary.”
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