What American Presidents Served at US State Dinners

Since the first official state dinner was held in 1874, American presidents have hosted kings, queens, and heads of state from around the world at grand, elegant affairs. They've also brought together rulers and comparable government leaders for less-than-stunning meals.

Presidential state dinner meals have ranged from plain and simple fare to gourmet entrees, often influenced by social and economic factors as much as who was in the executive office. State dinner dishes have included favorite presidential foods such as Harry S. Truman's beloved watermelon pickles, as well as personal creations like Mamie Eisenhower's gelatin mint desserts. What was served at state dinners often reflected the preferences of honored guests or sent a political message to diners about how Americans liked to eat, drink, and be merry.



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