Treasury Secretary Eats at Cheesecake Factory After Obama Criticism

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent ate lunch at a Cheesecake Factory near the White House on Friday, a move that followed a sharp criticism of the presidential residence by former President Barack Obama.

The dispute began earlier this week during a campaign event in Ohio. Obama described the White House interior as resembling a fast-casual dining establishment. He stated, "He's got the White House looking like Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory."

Bessent responded to the comment the same day. He told reporters he had a French Dip Cheeseburger for his meal. He added, "I had a great meal, always have a great meal. I would tell the Martha's Vineyard set to give it a try."

The exchange highlights the public debate surrounding the construction of a new White House ballroom. The project carries a cost of $600 million or more. The new room is intended to host state dinners and other formal events.

Current state dinners feature specific culinary choices. King Charles III attended a state dinner this spring. The menu included Dover Sole Meunière served with Potato Pavé, Spring Ramps, Snow Peas, and Parsley Oil. In 2018, President Emmanuel Macron received a state dinner that opened with a Goat Cheese Gateau.

Cheesecake Factory locations offer a different menu structure. Their restaurants list more than 250 items. Options include Chicken and Waffle Skewers, Tex-Mex Eggrolls, and Pickle Fries. The menu also features Buffalo Blasts, which are chicken and cheese wrapped in dough, deep-fried, and served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.

Bessent's dining choice coincides with the ongoing political discourse over the aesthetic of the executive residence. The Treasury Secretary's meal at the chain restaurant near the executive mansion drew immediate attention from the press corps.