With a per-meal payment system, residents of The Dorchester never face such dilemmas, and a variety of available services and amenities make ease of both cooking in and dining out in Charlotte. Says one satisfied Dorchester resident: "With à la carte services, I can go out to eat on a whim, order a pizza or try a new recipe without worrying that a meal I paid for has gone uneaten in the dining room."

The condo-style apartments of The Dorchester make for a spectacular dining environment. The full kitchens, complete with appliances and disposals, are a cook's dream. For those that need a boost of confidence prior to entering the kitchen, The Dorchester offers a variety of cooking classes that will leave dinner guests asking for seconds. The Dorchester gladly provides transportation to the many surrounding grocery stores and even offers a grocery delivery service, allowing residents more time to enjoy the many amenities available to active adults.

For those in the mood to dine out, The Dorchester also provides transportation service to and from the many desirable restaurants of South Charlotte. Among others, senior residents of The Dorchester enjoy Harper's, Waldhorn, Tony Romas, Bonefish Grill, Buca Di Beppo and Red Lobster, all within a stone's throw of the retirement community.

The Dorchester's Magnolia Room is difficult to pass up, however. Located on the senior home's gracious grounds, the restaurant-style dining facility serves a variety of entrees, all personally selected by a gourmet chef. For those with smaller appetites, vegetable plates or soup and salad are available daily.