The Waldorf Astoria loves to brag about how every president since Herbert Hoover has been a guest at their hotel, but they rarely disclose what delicacies our rulers savor while there. But starting this month, guests at the Waldorf Towers and diners in the hotel’s Bull & Bear steakhouse can have a taste of presidential luxury that, until now, only taxpayer money could buy.
For $330 each, guests in the towers can have a four course meal comprised of dishes served to Bush père and fils, as well as Reagan and Clinton. The dinner is delivered to your room by a personal butler who remains on hand to bow and scrape throughout the evening. Those diners willing to be seen among the rabble in the Bull & Bear are charged $500 each, but the room is adorned with U.S. flags and comes with unspecified “presidential amenities to take home.” (A cast of Geronimo’s skull, perhaps?)
The menu starts with a seared Scallop with Osetra Caviar and Potato-Chive Mousseline, served to Clinton at a Heads of State Dinner in 2000. The second course, Poached Turbot with Caviar-Champagne Sauce, was for Reagan at the United Nations' 40th Anniversary in 1985. The main course is Roast Rack of Lamb with Saffron Potatoes, Candied Eggplant and Pickled Onion, which Bush consumed in 1992. Dessert is Dubya’s favorite: Chocolate Extravaganza; compote of fresh Iraqi blood optional.
According to Waldorf Astoria executive chef John Doherty the dinner “is unlikely to be an expense enjoyed by the masses.” But if you’re looking to eat like a king – er, elected public servant – on a smaller budget, ABC News has posted the recipes for all four dishes on their website.
