The White House state dinners are unique events that showcase American food and culture while honoring foreign dignitaries. Chefs Cris Comerford and Susie Morrison have been responsible for creating the menus for these dinners for nearly a decade, with Comerford being the first person of color to serve as the executive chef at the White House. Their latest creation will be for Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel, marking the first state dinner for an African head of state since 2008.
The months of planning that go into a state dinner involve input from the first lady’s staff and the White House social office. Ideas are discussed, menus are proposed, and tastings are conducted before the final menu is selected. While the overall goal is to showcase American food and ingredients, there are also nods to the guest of honor and their country. For the upcoming dinner for the Kenyan president, the chefs have planned a three-course meal featuring dishes like chilled heirloom tomato soup and smoked beef short ribs.
The chefs work closely with their regular suppliers to source seasonal ingredients for the state dinners. For the previous dinner with Japan’s prime minister, the menu included foods from various regions of America and incorporated small tributes to Japan, such as cherry blossoms and matcha tea. The chefs take into account the dietary preferences and restrictions of the guests, ensuring that everyone is accommodated. Serving hundreds of guests simultaneously requires precise timing and efficiency, with the president being the first to be served.
Comerford and Morrison have a long history at the White House, with both chefs starting their careers there in the mid-1990s. Comerford, a naturalized U.S. citizen from the Philippines, has been in charge of designing and executing menus for various official events since 2005. Morrison, who began as a contract pastry employee, became the executive pastry chef in 2014. Together, they have worked on numerous state dinners and other high-profile events, showcasing their culinary expertise and creativity.
The state dinner for the Kenyan president is seen as an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Kenya, with President Biden underscoring the importance of the relationship. These dinners serve as a platform for culinary diplomacy, where the chefs play a crucial role in representing American cuisine and hospitality. As the first female duo to hold their respective roles at the White House, Comerford and Morrison have been trailblazers in the world of culinary arts, showcasing their talent and expertise on a global stage.
In conclusion, the upcoming state dinner for Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel, will be a celebration of American food and culture, with a touch of international flair. The chefs, Cris Comerford and Susie Morrison, have meticulously planned and prepared a menu that reflects the spirit of diplomacy and friendship. As they continue to push the boundaries of culinary excellence at the White House, their work serves as a testament to the power of food in building bridges between nations.
