Obama Presidential Center to Honor Tafari Campbell with Restaurant

The new Presidential Center established by former President Barack Obama is set to feature a restaurant dedicated to Tafari Campbell, a beloved chef and family friend of the Obamas who sadly passed away in 2023.

The Obama Foundation revealed in a statement on Monday, “We honor the award-winning former White House Culinary Team member and personal chef of the Obama family, who tragically died earlier this year.”

At 45, Campbell drowned in July 2023 while paddleboarding on Big Pond in Edgartown, close to the Obamas’ Martha’s Vineyard residence. Authorities noted that he wasn’t wearing a life jacket when the incident occurred.

The Obamas described Campbell as “our beloved family member.”

New Dining Experience at the Center

According to the announcement, the restaurant will showcase a painting of Campbell by artist Kate Capshaw. The establishment, named Tafari’s Kitchen, will offer dishes inspired by personal stories from Obama, including “Mrs. Robinson’s Red Rice,” a recipe passed down from Michelle Obama’s late mother, Marian Robinson.

Chef Cliff Roma from Chicago, alongside Bon Appétit Management, will be in charge of the menu.

Initially hired during the George W. Bush administration, Campbell continued to serve in the White House throughout President Obama’s tenure, culminating in his role as the Obama family’s personal chef until 2017.

A companion on the paddleboard with Campbell at the time reported that he observed Campbell lose balance and fall into the water.

Reflecting on their time with him, the Obamas remarked, “When we first met him, he was a talented White House sous chef. As time went on, we came to know him as a warm, fun, and kind individual who made our lives brighter.” They went on to express their sorrow over his passing, noting that he had been a part of their family since they left the White House.

Details on the Presidential Center

After over a decade of development and scrutiny regarding its design, finances, and impact on taxpayers, the Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to open on June 19.

Reports indicate that substantial taxpayer money—hundreds of millions—has been spent on infrastructure enhancements, including road improvements and upgrades to public transport facilities surrounding the center. The Obama Foundation has been contacted for further comment.