Former President Barack Obama’s presidential center will feature a new comfort-food restaurant honoring Tafari Campbell, a renowned chef and a close family friend. Campbell, a member of the Obama family’s household, tragically passed away in 2023.
The Obama Foundation shared in a press release that this new restaurant will recognize Campbell’s contributions as an award-winning chef, who once served as a culinary team member at the White House. Campbell drowned while paddle boarding on Edgartown Great Pond near the Obama’s residence in Martha’s Vineyard. He was not wearing a life vest during the accident, as reported by the police.
The Obamas described Campbell as a ‘beloved part of our family.’ A painting of Campbell by Kate Capshaw will be displayed in the restaurant, commemorating his warm and humble nature.
The restaurant, named Tafari’s Kitchen, will offer dishes inspired by the Obamas’ personal stories. One of these dishes, ‘Mrs. Robinson’s Red Rice,’ is a family recipe from Michelle Obama’s late mother, Marian Robinson. The menu will be crafted by Chicago-based chef Cliff Rome and Bon Appétit Management.
Campbell began his career at the White House under the George W. Bush administration and continued during Obama’s presidency. He developed a close friendship with Obama, ultimately becoming his personal chef. In a statement, the Obamas described Campbell as a talented and passionate chef who valued food’s power to unite people. They expressed profound sadness over his passing, noting, ‘Our hearts are broken that he’s gone.’
The Obama Presidential Center, located on Chicago’s Southside, will officially open on June 19. Its development has spanned over a decade, facing challenges regarding design and public funding concerns.
The center’s infrastructure enhancements, funded by taxpayers, included roads and transit updates surrounding the site. Fox News Digital reached out to the Obama Foundation for further comments.
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