WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s trip to China was marked by a flavorful diplomatic touch aboard Air Force One, as his special assistant and communications adviser Margo Martin shared the in-flight menu featuring American-style Chinese dishes.
The menu, served on formal gold-rimmed plates bearing presidential branding, offered a thematic nod to the high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Departing from President Trump’s well-known preference for classic American fast food like McDonald’s burgers and fries, the selection embraced a fusion of Chinese-inspired flavors prepared in an American style.
The Air Force One Menu (May 12, 2026)
- Beef Stir Fry: Sliced flank steak, onion, bell pepper, bok choy, and lo mein noodles stir-fried in a sesame and soy-based sauce, then topped with green onions.
- Spring Rolls
- Fortune Cookie: A custom version bearing the message “Welcome aboard Air Force ONE!” instead of a traditional fortune.
- Beverage of Choice
Martin, who frequently posts behind-the-scenes glimpses from presidential travels aboard Air Force One and Marine One, highlighted the carefully plated meal. Observers noted that while the menu description sounded elaborate, the actual presentation appeared more straightforward — featuring a simple stir-fry accompanied by just a couple of spring rolls.
The culinary choice reflected both practicality for long-haul international flights and a subtle gesture of cultural engagement ahead of critical diplomatic discussions. The trip has drawn significant attention not only for its policy implications and the presence of accompanying U.S. business leaders but also for these personal insights into life aboard the presidential aircraft.
This latest menu reveal continues a tradition of transparency and engagement from the Trump communications team, offering the public a rare look at the details that accompany presidential travel on one of the world’s most iconic airplanes.
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