Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has been on a culinary journey around the world, using food as a way to connect with others and gain insights into local economies. While her dining decisions may seem like part of a diplomatic strategy, Ms. Yellen insists that it’s simply a way to experience different cultures.
From trying mayonnaise mixed with ants in Mexico City to indulging in aged garlic in Frankfurt, and even sampling hallucinogenic magic mushrooms in Beijing, Ms. Yellen has been adventurous in her food choices. Despite her busy schedule grappling with economic issues like inflation and sanctions on Russia, she has managed to log over 300,000 miles in the past three years.
What started as a personal interest in exploring different cuisines has now turned into a global fascination, with people curious about where and what Ms. Yellen eats. The Treasury secretary, known for her background as an economist and former Federal Reserve chair, has found a way to balance work and leisure by incorporating food adventures into her official travels.
While her family meals were once dominated by economics discussions, Ms. Yellen now sees food as a way to connect with colleagues and officials on a more personal level. By sharing meals and trying local delicacies, she not only builds relationships but also gains a better understanding of the economic realities in different countries.
Whether it’s visiting a microbrewery in Beijing with the U.S. ambassador to China or dining at a delicatessen in Manhattan, Ms. Yellen’s culinary experiences have become a highlight of her tenure as Treasury secretary. While some may view her food adventures as a distraction from her official duties, others see it as a unique way to engage with global partners and foster goodwill.
As Ms. Yellen continues to travel the world, one meal at a time, she remains committed to using food as a tool for connection and cultural exchange. And while her dining decisions may raise eyebrows, they ultimately serve a greater purpose in building bridges and promoting understanding across borders.