What's on the menu at the Trump-Xi state dinner?

US President Donald Trump is hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House for a state dinner on Thursday evening. This marks Xi's second official visit to Washington and his first in 11 years. The White House revealed that the menu will blend "American ingredients with subtle Chinese influence, bringing the culinary traditions of both nations together."

The meal begins with a toast of Schramsberg "Blanc De Noir", a sparkling wine, symbolizing the "Toast to Peace" shared by former President Richard Nixon and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in Beijing in 1972. Nixon was the first American president to visit China.

The first course features a veloute made of sweet yellow squash, gently blended to emphasize its earthy, wild mushroom flavors, sautéed with fresh herbs. The dish is complemented by crispy pancetta for a smoky contrast. The second course consists of sea bass coated in toasted sesame seeds, creating a fragrant nutty crust while preserving the fish's tenderness.

It is accompanied by crisp baby bok choy and roasted garden eggplant, which impart light caramelized flavors. The meal concludes with a "vibrant sauce verte of fresh herbs."

Dessert will be a vanilla cremeux with a sour cherry confit center, served atop a walnut frangipane. The dessert's fruit-shaped form is complemented by an ice cream made with White House honey. Other entertainment includes performances by tenor Christopher Macchio, who sang at the 2025 presidential inauguration, and military musicians such as "The President's Own" US Marine Corps Band and "The Commandant's Own" US Marine Drum and Bugle Corps.