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Tafari’s Kitchen

Tafari’s Kitchen is a casual dining experience honoring the legacy of former White House Chef Tafari Campbell and featuring some dishes that reflect the traditions of Chicago. Curated by Chef Cliff Rome, Tafari’s Kitchen celebrates the connections we make through food.
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  • Obama Family Chili

    Taste an  Obama Family classic. This homey chili features ground turkey, spices, red wine vinegar, tomatoes, beans, cheddar cheese, and sour cream, all served with a side of cornbread. 

  • Tafari’s Famous Ribs

    A recipe created by former White House chef, Tafari Campbell. Enjoy a rack of succulent ribs with your choice of a side of traditional potato salad or cole slaw

  • Mrs. Robinson’s Red Rice

    Celebrate the legacy of Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama’s mother with her beloved Red Rice. Featuring sautéed shrimp, long grain white rice, tomato juice, Tabasco, crumbled bacon, and sausage. 

The Legacy Of Tafari Campbell 

The late Tafari Campbell was part of the White House kitchen team and, later, the Obama family’s personal chef for many years. Growing up, he cooked for large family gatherings and learned to create beautiful dishes that nourished body and soul. A warm, fun-loving, and selfless soul, with award-winning culinary talent, Campbell used his passion for food to spread joy and create community. 

Headshot of Tafari Campbell; Photo Credit: Seth Mourra

Meet Chef Cliff Rome 

Chicago Chef Cliff Rome is a beloved culinary force and entrepreneur, known for transforming neighborhood ingredients into unforgettable experiences. The Chicago native is the founder of Rome’s Joy Companies, which includes Peach’s Restaurant, Rome’s Joy Catering, and the Parkway Ballroom. BAMJoy, a new culinary collaboration between Chef Cliff Rome and Bon Appétit Management Company, have come together to lead food service at Tafari’s Kitchen and across the Center. This partnership brings together deep local roots and world-class hospitality shaping a dining experience that reflects the South Side’s culture, history, and future.

Tafari’s Kitchen FAQs

Plan Your Visit

  • Getting to the Campus

    Map out your route to our campus before you visit.

  • Museum

    Explore the remarkable story of President Obama and Michelle Obama and those who inspired their journey.

  • Accessibility

    Check out all of the accessibility options across our campus.

  • Sky Room

    Head to the top of the Museum and take in stunning views of the West and South Sides of Chicago. 

  • The Shop

    Shop with purpose at the Obama Presidential Center store, where every purchase of curated merchandise and local artisan goods helps to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.

  • Programs and Events

    Take a look at the performances, activities, and classes happening across the campus.