President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are preparing to fete Chinese President Xi Jinping during his first state visit to the United States in more than a decade, with more than trade and artificial intelligence policy talks on the table.
The state dinner, which is being held in the White House’s East Room as Trump’s ballroom continues to be constructed nearby, will underscore “American ingredients with subtle Chinese influence, bringing the culinary traditions of both nations together,” according to the first lady’s office.
The meal, curated by Melania Trump, will start with a toast of Schramsberg Blanc de Noir, a reference to the historic “Toast to Peace” between then-President Richard Nixon and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in Beijing in 1972 during Nixon’s trip to China, the first by a sitting U.S. president.
“The same American sparkling wine served at that historic gathering continues to be enjoyed at White House functions today,” the first lady’s office wrote in a statement on Thursday.
The newly renovated East Room, completed in time for Xi’s visit, will be awash in the color red in an “expression of warmth and celebration,” honoring the color’s “longstanding cultural significance throughout Chinese history,” according to the first lady’s office.
Urns will also be “overflowing” with red blossoms, her spokespeople told reporters. “Tables are dressed in rich red linens and adorned with dahlias and ranunculus. Among the seasonal blooms, the tables feature vermeil from the White House collection. The Reagan State Service is featured on the tables. These details blend Chinese artistry and American tradition together, showcased within the timeless elegance of the White House.”
Entertainment will include a performance from President Trump’s favorite tenor, Christopher Macchio, who serenaded the president at his second inauguration last year and during the Republican midterm convention this month.
In addition, there will be music by “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, the U.S. Army Chorus, and the U.S. Army Strings.
Here is what else is on the menu:
First course
Yellow squash veloute
Wild mushroom fricassee
Crispy pancetta
Scallion oil
Second course
Sesame-crusted sea bass
Braised baby bok choy
Roasted garden eggplant
Sauce verte
TRUMP AND XI BRING COMPETING AGENDAS TO SUPERPOWER VISIT
Dessert
Vanilla cremeux & White House honey ice cream
Walnut Frangipane
Sour Cherry Confit
Xi was last in the U.S. for a state visit in 2015, but traveled to San Francisco in 2023 for that year’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and a sideline meeting with former President Joe Biden.