On President’s Day, Americans reflect on leadership and the historical figures that shaped the nation. But beyond eloquent speeches lies a surprisingly consistent theme: steak.
Adrian Miller, a culinary historian and author from Colorado, notes that steak has often appeared at state dinners, yet it’s more frequently a private fare enjoyed by the first family, either at the White House or Camp David. Understanding these meals can reveal much about a president’s character. As Miller explained, “Americans want their president to be exceptional while also relatable.”
He added that when presidents share their favorite childhood meals, it makes them seem more approachable—especially when it contrasts with a preference for international dishes. With that in mind, let’s dive into how nine U.S. presidents have enjoyed their steaks, drawing from cookbooks, memoirs, and historical records.
George Washington
Long before the age of steakhouses, George Washington, our nation’s first president, had a taste for beefsteaks and kidney pie—a popular dish of the 18th century. Back then, steak was often baked into pies, rather than served as standalone cuts, likely due to Washington’s dental issues that made softer foods easier to consume.
Theodore Roosevelt
The 26th president, an outdoor enthusiast, relished hearty meals cooked over a campfire. During his memorable 1903 camping trip with John Muir in Yosemite, Roosevelt enjoyed grilled steaks amidst the great outdoors. His straightforward approach to food mirrored his role in reforming the meat industry after reading Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle.”
William Howard Taft
In a fun anecdote from White House housekeeper Elizabeth Jaffray, President Taft was said to start his day with a hefty 12-ounce steak for breakfast, accompanied by toast and coffee. Despite his hefty reputation, Taft attempted to reduce his steak portion to 6 ounces during his time, which highlighted the period’s obsession with steak as a marker of success.
Dwight D. Eisenhower
Miller revealed that records of steak cooking temperatures trace back to Eisenhower. The president loved grilling, even arranging for a grill on the White House roof. His preferred steak doneness was rare, and he often prepared them himself, seasoning them with oil and garlic before grilling.
John F. Kennedy
Health issues dictated Kennedy’s dietary habits; he favored a simple, bland diet, often finding comfort in plain steak served with mild vegetables. A Danish journalist, who dated him, has documented these modest meals in archived letters.
Ronald Reagan
Reagan had a fondness for rustic American dishes from his California ranch, opting for uncomplicated meals like steak with chili in private settings. Midway through his presidency, however, doctors advised him to cut back on red meat due to health concerns, shifting him toward a more fiber-rich diet.
George H.W. Bush
Bush’s love for steak was evident when he ordered a “charred but rare” T-bone during a 1992 campaign stop in Oklahoma City. Even after his presidency, steak remained a staple, as demonstrated by his son’s memories of Morton’s Steakhouse delivering food during his father’s hospital stay.
Bill Clinton
Before shifting to a plant-based diet, Clinton was known for his love of steak. He’d often request a large porterhouse with creamy sauces while Hillary was away, and reports indicate he rarely left a plate unfinished.
Donald J. Trump
In March 2017, Trump dined on a well-done, $54 strip steak with ketchup during his first dinner as president in D.C. His preference for thoroughly cooked steaks has been noted by staff, and he launched a brief venture called Trump Steak in 2007, promoting it as “The World’s Best Steak.”
So, taking a look back at how these presidents savored their steaks offers a glimpse into their personalities, and also a connection to the American palate throughout history.
