Cristeta Comerford, the Filipina executive chef at the White House, has announced her retirement after serving five presidents over a remarkable 29-year career. The announcement was confirmed by a spokeswoman for first lady Jill Biden, stating Comerford’s last day was Friday.
Comerford, who began her tenure in the White House kitchen in 1995, became the first woman and the first person of color to be appointed as the top chef in 2005. Over her career, she managed numerous state dinners, high-profile social events, and daily meals for the first families.
Chef and humanitarian José Andrés highlighted her legacy in a tweet, calling her a “national treasure” and a “culinary diplomat.”
First Lady Jill Biden praised Comerford’s career in a statement: “Through her barrier-breaking career, Chef Cris has led her team with warmth and creativity, and nourished our souls along the way. Joe and I are filled with gratitude for her dedication and years of service.”
Comerford’s career was marked by her ability to cater to diverse culinary tastes across different administrations. She served presidents with varied preferences, from Donald Trump’s well-done steaks to Barack Obama’s adventurous palate. Her adaptability and diplomatic skills were key to her long-standing success.
Reflecting on her career in a 2014 interview with CNN, Comerford said, “It’s really a matter of knowing each of them individually: Do they like their pizza with thick or thin crusts? What vegetables do they prefer? That kind of thing.”
Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, commended her lengthy tenure as “an amazing accomplishment,” noting her sharp culinary skills and ability to adapt to the visions of various first ladies.