A tour of White House dining, from George Washington’s breakfast habits to Barack Obama’s state dinners, by the renowned creator of the History Chef blog

You might remember that Ronald Regan loved jellybeans, but did you know he ate them as an aid to stop smoking? Did you know John Adams was fond of Green Sea Turtle Soup? Or that William Howard Taft kept a cow named Pauline on the White House lawn for fresh milk every day?

All the Presidents’ Menus is a delectable journey through American history, served one dish at a time. Historian and author Suzanne Evans uncovers the fascinating intersection of food, politics, and culture, revealing how meals have shaped pivotal moments in the nation’s story. From Thomas Jefferson’s introduction of macaroni and cheese to the White House to John F. Kennedy’s space-age dining innovations, this book is packed with vivid anecdotes, historic recipes, and surprising culinary trivia.

Discover the untold stories behind presidential tables, including Lincoln’s love for gingerbread men, the Potomac “Oyster Wars” that influenced the Constitution, and the scandal of “embalmed beef” that revolutionized food safety laws. With each chapter, Evans serves up a feast of history, personality, and national culture, making All the Presidents’ Menus a must-read for anyone curious about the flavors that have shaped America.

Who knew history could be so delicious?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Suzanne Evans is the founding writer of the History Channel’s “Hungry History” website and the creator and writer of the popular blog History Chef. Her books include Machiavelli for Moms and Forgotten Crimes, and her work has appeared in The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and other major publications.