World leaders are often in the spotlight for their policy decisions and diplomatic moves. However, a recent social media post has shifted focus to a more personal aspect of their lives: their culinary preferences. On December 16, 2025, the popular food guide platform Taste Atlas shared an intriguing Instagram post listing the favourite foods of ten prominent global figures, offering a rare glimpse into their personal tastes.
From Fast Food to Fine Dining: A Global Palate
The list showcases a remarkable diversity, reflecting both national cuisines and personal indulgences. It turns out that the diets of the powerful are as varied as their political ideologies.
Starting with Donald J. Trump, the post highlights his well-documented love for classic American fast food, including burgers and steak, often washed down with a Diet Coke.
Russian President Vladimir Putin enjoys a mix of simple and specific delicacies. According to the Taste Atlas post and an earlier explainer by First Post, his favourites include quail eggs, ice cream, and fruit juice. The list specifically mentions his fondness for pistachio ice cream, alongside lamb meat and fish dishes.
Desi Delights and Global Flavours
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is celebrated for his preference for traditional Indian foods. The list notes his love for moringa paratha, khichdi, and dhokla. It also mentions that he enjoys an immunity-boosting kadha during seasonal changes, aligning with his public advocacy for wellness.
Chinese President Xi Jinping's favourites, as per the post, are baozi and jiaozi—classic Chinese dumplings and steamed buns. Interestingly, the list also includes the British classic fish and chips in his preferred foods.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who famously enjoyed masala chai with PM Modi during an India tour, has a palate that leans towards French classics. His favourites are listed as cordon bleu, blanquette de veau, and wine.
International Tastes from Tacos to Tandoori
The list extends to other influential leaders, revealing more unique preferences:
UK's Keir Starmer is known for his classic taste, enjoying tandoori salmon, pasta bake, and sandwiches.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz prefers spaghetti frutti di mare, brötchen (small bread rolls), and weisswurst.
Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum loves traditional Mexican fare like tacos al pastor and chiles rellenos. Notably, her list includes chapulines—a traditional snack made from toasted grasshoppers seasoned with garlic, lime, and chili.
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney has simpler comfort food cravings, with pizza, Dairy Milk chocolate, and ice cream topping his list.
Finally, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva favours hearty national dishes such as rabada, galinhada (a chicken and rice dish), and arroz com feijão or bife e ovo.
This lighthearted reveal by Taste Atlas humanises these figures, reminding the public that behind the titles and policies are individuals with their own unique tastes and comfort foods. It bridges the gap between the high-stakes world of global governance and the universal language of food.
