In a statement released by Michelle Obama, the First Lady said, "Cristeta Comerford brings such incredible talent to the White House operation and came very highly regarded from the Bush family. Also the mom of a young daughter, I appreciate our shared perspective on the importance of healthy eating and healthy families. I look forward to working with her in the years to come."
Chef Comerford was appointed Executive White House Chef in 2005. She had previously worked nine years at the White House as an assistant chef. Chef Comerford is the first woman and first minority to be the Executive White House Chef. A naturalized U.S. citizen, Comerford was born in 1962, in Manila, Philippines. She studied French cooking in Vienna, Austria, but specializes in ethnic and American cuisine.
Her resume includes Chef Tournant at Le Ciel in Vienna, Austria; Chef at Le Grande Bistro at The Westin Hotel in Washington, D.C.; and Chef at The Colonnade at the ANA Hotel in Washington, D.C..
As White House Chef, Chef Comerford is responsible for creating and executing menus for state dinners, holiday receptions, and other dinner and lunch functions hosted by the President and/or First Lady.
