Royal banquets in Britain are akin to scenes from a film. They feature the shimmer of gold and silver, staff in regal attire, expansive halls, and exceptional royal cuisine. These are not merely dinners, but a form of diplomacy, often referred to as ‘diplomacy on the dining table.’ Recently, a grand banquet of this nature was held at Windsor Castle during the visit of former U.S. President Donald Trump to Britain. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were honored with a 41-gun salute, a display by 120 horses, and a contingent of 1,300 soldiers. This was the largest formal welcome for a foreign head of state in Britain. Following this, the royal banquet took place. This article explores the frequency of these banquets, the menu served on this occasion, and more.
The British Royal Family hosts an average of two to three state banquets each year. These events occur when a head of state makes an official visit to Britain. Most of these banquets are held in the grand ballroom of Buckingham Palace, which can accommodate between 150 and 170 guests. Occasionally, as was the case during Trump’s visit, the banquet is held in St George’s Hall at Windsor Castle, a hall adorned with a 47-meter-long table and coats of arms of knights.
The menu for these regal banquets is decided upon by the Royal Kitchen and the Master of the Household. The selections feature produce from specific regions of Britain, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and light yet appealing dishes. A strict rule is to avoid garlic and overly spicy food. This is due to the royal family’s frequent interactions with people; the smell of garlic is considered uncomfortable during conversations. This secret was revealed by Princess Diana’s chef, Carolyn Robb, years ago.
The menu for Trump’s banquet was written in French, but its flavors were entirely rooted in British soil. The starter was Hampshire watercress panna cotta, Parmesan shortbread, and quail egg salad. The main course was organic Norfolk chicken ballotine, wrapped in zucchini, with thyme and savory jus. The dessert was a vanilla ice cream bombe, with a Kentish raspberry sorbet and lightly cooked Victoria plums. The drinks list was equally impressive, including fine wines such as Winston Estate, Cuvee 2016, and Ridge Vineyards, Monte Bello 2000. A special feature was the inclusion of 1945 vintage port, a symbolic nod to Trump’s presidency number 45. Interestingly, Trump does not drink alcohol. In addition, there was a signature cocktail, the Transatlantic Whisky Sour, made with Johnnie Walker, the tang of marmalade, pecan foam, and toasted marshmallows, all presented with a star-shaped biscuit.
While the menu does not differ for each leader, seasonal and cultural touches are incorporated. For instance, when French President Emmanuel Macron visited, the menu included British dishes with classic French influences. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, vegetarian options were given special consideration. However, dishes containing garlic, seafood risks, or overly spicy pasta are never included, regardless of the guest.
The guest list always generates discussion. This time, Hollywood stars were absent, with prominent figures from the tech industry and politics in attendance.
Tech giants: Tim Cook (Apple), Jensen Huang (Nvidia), Sam Altman (OpenAI).
Politics and diplomacy: Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Sports stars: Golfer Nick Faldo and athlete Dame Katherine Granger.
Trump’s seating arrangement was also special, seated between King Charles and the Princess of Wales, Catherine.
Royal banquets typically commence at 8 p.m. and continue until midnight, beginning with a royal fanfare and royal toasts, followed by course-by-course service. Throughout the evening, the orchestra played some of Trump’s favorite songs, such as ‘Nessun Dorma’ and ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want.’