The new Obama Presidential Center will pay tribute to the late chef Tafari Campbell, a cherished family friend of the Obamas, by opening a comfort-food restaurant in his honor. The Obama Foundation announced this initiative on Monday, highlighting Campbell’s significant contributions as an award-winning culinary team member in the White House and personal chef to the Obamas, describing his untimely passing in 2023 as tragic.
In July 2023, Campbell, aged 45, drowned while paddle boarding on Edgartown Great Pond near the Obamas’ Martha’s Vineyard residence. A police report noted he was not wearing a life vest. The Obamas have expressed deep affection for Campbell, stating he was “a beloved part of our family.”
“Tafari Campbell was known as a warm, fun-loving, and humble soul who used his immense gifts and passion for food to spread joy and bring people together,” said the Obama Foundation. An artwork by Kate Capshaw depicting Campbell will be displayed in the restaurant.
Named Tafari’s Kitchen, the restaurant will offer dishes inspired by the Obama family’s personal experiences, including “Mrs. Robinson’s Red Rice,” a recipe from the late Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama’s mother. Chicago-based chef Cliff Rome and Bon Appétit Management will lead the culinary efforts.
Campbell began his career at the White House under the George W. Bush administration, continuing through Obama’s presidency and later becoming the personal chef for the family. He formed a lasting friendship with President Obama, leaving the White House in 2017 upon the administration’s conclusion.
Witnesses reported that during the accident, Campbell lost his balance and fell while paddle boarding. Reflecting on Campbell’s impact, the Obamas stated, “When we first met him, he was a talented sous chef at the White House – creative and passionate about food, and its ability to bring people together. In the years that followed, we got to know him as a warm, fun, extraordinarily kind person who made all of our lives a little brighter.”
The statement continued with the Obamas recalling their fond memories of asking Campbell to continue with them post-presidency, marking their profound sorrow at his loss. The Obama Presidential Center, situated on Chicago’s Southside, is set for its grand opening on June 19 after extensive development replete with design and financial scrutiny.
Fox News Digital previously disclosed that infrastructure costs, including roads and utilities around the campus, were funded by hundreds of millions from taxpayers. Fox News Digital contacted the Obama Foundation for further comments on the developments.
Ashley J. DiMella, reporting on politics for Fox News Digital, contributed to this coverage.