Unexpected Dining Habits of the Royal Family
Ever wondered what it's like to dine with royalty? Despite their elevated status, the British Royal Family's eating habits are surprisingly relatable. From unique dietary preferences to simple meal choices, their culinary customs might be more familiar than you think. Let's explore some of the intriguing yet down-to-earth eating habits that define their royal dining experience.
Harry and William's Love for Fast-Food
Despite their royal status, Prince Harry and Prince William enjoy fast-food, especially McDonald's®. Former royal chef Darren McGrady recalled an instance when Princess Diana canceled lunch plans to take her sons to McDonald's, emphasizing that it was the toys they loved, not just the food. The princes also enjoyed other American foods like pizza and potato skins.
Princess Diana's Strict Diet and Hidden Struggles
Princess Diana followed a strict diet, avoiding red meat and favoring healthy dishes like stuffed bell peppers and fish. Former chef Darren McGrady revealed that she would have fat-free versions of meals and trick guests into thinking she was eating the same food. Diana's struggle with bulimia was hidden from the staff until she openly confronted it and committed to healthier eating.
The Queen's Pre-Planned Menus and her Aversion to Garlic
Queen Elizabeth II selected her meals from a menu book, similar to a first-class flight service. The palace kitchen would send a menu book to the Queen, who would choose her preferred dishes, and the book would then return to the kitchen for preparation. These menus were planned at least three days in advance and strictly adhered to. One steadfast rule was the exclusion of garlic, as the Queen disliked both its smell and taste.
Prince Philip's Dinner Swap
Prince Philip preferred larger portions over the small servings typical of fancy dinners. Former royal chef Darren McGrady recounted an incident where Philip inquired about dinner and saw the staff's larger lamb chops. Dissatisfied with the fancy "little one-inch eyes of lamb meat" meant for him, Philip requested to swap, resulting in him getting the meatier pieces while the staff received the smaller ones.
The Queen's Practical Eating Habits
Despite the royal opulence, Queen Elizabeth II valued practicality. At Balmoral, she often ate fruit from a yellow Tupperware® container and enjoyed breakfast cereals like Kellogg's® from a plastic container. She would serve herself these simple meals, often accompanied by a cup of Darjeeling tea.
Who knew that behind the gilded gates of Buckingham Palace, the royal family's dining habits could be so... ordinary? From Prince Philip's lamb chop swaps to the Queen's love for Tupperware, it's clear that even the royal family appreciates the simple pleasures in life. So, next time you sit down for a meal, remember: if it's good enough for the Queen, it's good enough for us. Bon appétit, Your Majesty!
References: 9 Bizarre Eating Habits of the Royal Family, According to Their Personal Chef | The royal family’s most bizarre eating habits and unspoken dining rules, according to former private chef
