The White House’s esteemed executive chef, Cris Comerford, has retired after an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades, during which she prepared meals and crafted state dinners for five different presidents and their families. Comerford, who served her final day on Friday, made history as both the first woman and the first person of color to hold the prestigious position. In a heartfelt statement released on Tuesday, First Lady Jill Biden expressed her gratitude for Comerford’s years of dedication.
“I always say, food is love. Through her barrier-breaking career, Chef Cris has led her team with warmth and creativity, and nourished our souls along the way,” Jill Biden remarked. “With all our hearts, Joe and I are filled with gratitude for her dedication and years of service.”
Cris Comerford, 61, began honing her culinary expertise at Chicago hotels and Washington restaurants before joining the White House as an assistant chef in 1995. Originally from the Philippines, Comerford later became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Her ascent to the role of executive chef came in 2005, marking a milestone in her career. In this role, she was tasked with designing and executing menus for numerous high-profile events, including state dinners, social gatherings, holiday functions, receptions, and official luncheons.
Over nearly a decade, Comerford collaborated with pastry chef Susie Morrison—also the first woman to hold her position—to delight the palates of guests at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue with their exquisite culinary creations. State dinners, considered instruments of U.S. diplomacy and a high honor bestowed upon America’s enduring allies, frequently showcased Comerford’s expertise. Her final state dinner, held in May, honored Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel. The elegant event featured a three-course meal starting with chilled heirloom tomato soup, followed by a main course of smoked beef short ribs paired with butter-poached lobster, and culminating in a dessert of a homemade white chocolate basket filled with raspberries, peaches, and other fruits.
Celebrity chef and humanitarian José Andrés seemed to announce the news of Comerford’s retirement with a congratulatory post on Monday evening. “You are a national treasure, a culinary diplomat who has shown the world how an immigrant can celebrate American food & share it with the world’s leaders,” Andrés wrote. “Congrats on retiring, we love you Cris.”
