Obama Pays Surprise Visit To Chicago Restaurant & Chef Set To Lead Food Program At His Presidential Center Ahead Of Opening

May 30, 2025 by Kay Johnson in Politics with 0 Comments

Obama Pays Surprise Visit To Chicago Restaurant & Chef Set To Lead Food Program At His Presidential Center Ahead Of Opening

Former President Barack Obama recently paid a heartfelt visit to Chicago chef Cliff Rome, who has been selected to lead food services at the upcoming Obama Presidential Center, set to open in 2026.

While checking in on the center’s progress last week, Obama reportedly stopped by Rome’s Peach’s Restaurant in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood to meet with the chef, staff, and local patrons.

In video footage from the moment, Rome shared his excitement about heading food services at the Presidential Library and reflected on the impact of Obama’s visit, saying:

“To see him on the corner of 47th and King Drive, Bronzeville. Not only was it good for us as a restaurant, [but also] our employees, the community. It’s beautiful. It’s so cool.”