When we think of royal dining, our minds often conjure images of elaborate banquets, gilded cutlery, and dishes so intricate they could be works of art. It’s easy to imagine a monarch, especially one as long-reigning as Queen Elizabeth II, indulging in the most extravagant culinary delights the world has to offer. But here’s a little secret that might just blow your mind: despite having access to an army of chefs and a pantry stocked with anything she could ever desire, the Queen often preferred to keep things surprisingly simple.
Thanks to former royal chefs like Darren McGrady and royal butlers such as Paul Burrell, we’ve been given a fascinating peek behind the velvet curtains of palace kitchens. These culinary insiders have spilled the beans on everything from her daily routines to her most cherished comfort foods, revealing a Queen who, in many ways, had a rather relatable palate, albeit with some distinctly regal twists. Forget caviar and truffles every day; Queen Elizabeth’s food preferences were a delightful mix of tradition, home-grown goodness, and a touch of the unexpected.
So, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a mouth-watering journey through 15 of Queen Elizabeth’s most unusual and incredibly specific food loves. Prepare to be amused, intrigued, and maybe even a little bit inspired by the simple yet refined tastes of a true icon. From a jar of jam that traveled the world with her to a surprising breakfast cereal, get ready to discover the lesser-known gastronomic quirks of Her Majesty!
1. **Quince Jelly**When you’re the Queen, you’re not just sent any old jar of jam. According to former royal butler Paul Burrell, Queen Elizabeth was particularly fond of “home-grown produce,” a habit that truly shines through in her special affection for quince jelly. This wasn’t something picked up from a supermarket shelf; it was a uniquely personal gift, steeped in tradition and connection.
Each year, during her annual visit to Helmingham Hall in Suffolk, the Queen’s hostess, Lady Tollemache, would present her with a jar of quince jelly. This precious preserve was made from fruit grown right in Lady Tollemache’s own garden, making it an exceptionally thoughtful and personal offering. Quinces, for those unfamiliar, are a fascinating fruit, often compared in taste and texture to a slightly tart apple or pear when cooked, boasting a fragrant aroma that sets them apart from more common preserves.
But here’s the kicker: this quince jelly wasn’t just a pleasant diversion; it was a prized possession. So revered was this specific jar of quince jelly that it accompanied the Queen on her travels, no matter where she went. “This jar appeared on the table every teatime, whichever residence Her Majesty was in,” Burrell writes in his memoir, The Royal Insider. He even added, with a hint of amazement, that this meant “carrying the jar around the world until it was finished.” Imagine the dedication to a single jar of jelly – that’s some serious love right there!
This wasn’t just about a sweet spread; it represented a taste of home, a connection to familiar places and traditions, carried with her across continents. It underscores a touching aspect of the Queen’s character, her appreciation for simple, genuine pleasures, and the personal touches that made her life, despite its grandeur, remarkably down-to-earth.
2. **Strawberry Jam (Balmoral Homemade)**If you thought the quince jelly story was sweet, wait until you hear about the Queen’s homemade strawberry jam. This wasn’t just any jam; it was a delicious testament to sisterly bonding and a playful royal rivalry. Former royal butler Paul Burrell shared a delightful anecdote in an August interview with Marie Claire, painting a picture of a Queen who, at times, was just like anyone else, enjoying a simple pleasure with a loved one.
Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth, it turns out, shared a charming ritual during their stays at Balmoral. Burrell recalls them acting “like two giggling schoolchildren” as they would personally pick their own strawberries from the estate’s lush gardens. This image of the two royal sisters, far from the stoic duties of their public lives, is truly endearing, highlighting a rare moment of unguarded joy and connection over something as simple as fresh fruit.
After their delightful strawberry-picking sessions, the remaining berries weren’t left to waste. Instead, they would be taken to the palace kitchens, where the pastry chef would transform them into a special batch of jam. But here’s where the story gets really good: this wasn’t jam for everyone. Oh no, this was *their* jam, and it came with an unspoken, yet very strict, rule.
“Woe betides if anyone touched it,” Burrell recounted, emphasizing the proprietary nature of their sweet creation. “That was their jam, and they would eat it until it was gone.” This little detail reveals a charming, almost childlike possessiveness over a beloved, personally-sourced treat. It speaks volumes about the value the Queen placed on simple, hand-crafted items, especially those with personal stories and shared memories attached to them. It’s a reminder that even monarchs cherish their special indulgences, especially when made with love and a touch of mischief.
3. **Chocolate Bath Olivers**Before the official business of the day began, Queen Elizabeth had a pre-breakfast ritual that often involved a specific type of biscuit. Forget lavish morning spreads; her early start included a cup of hot Earl Grey tea with milk (no sugar, thank you very much) and, crucially, a few biscuits. And not just any biscuits, mind you, but a particular favorite: Chocolate Bath Olivers.
For those unfamiliar with British biscuit culture, these aren’t your average cookies. Bath Olivers are traditionally a dry, crunchy biscuit, often enjoyed with cheese. However, the Queen’s preference took a delightful turn with the chocolate-enrobed variety. Imagine a crisp, almost savory cracker, transformed by a generous coating of rich chocolate – a truly unique combination that perfectly illustrates her particular tastes.
Former royal chef Darren McGrady, with his intimate knowledge of the Queen’s palate, confirmed that Chocolate Bath Olivers were her all-time favorite pre-breakfast treat. This detail, revealed in a piece in *Hello!* magazine and further elaborated by McGrady in interviews, showcases her enduring affection for certain specific items that brought her simple pleasure. It was a small, consistent indulgence that set the tone for her day, a quiet moment of enjoyment before her packed schedule truly kicked in.
This specific choice highlights that even within seemingly simple categories like “biscuits,” the Queen had distinct preferences, favoring quality and a familiar taste that provided comfort. It’s a wonderful example of how, despite the grand scale of her life, she found joy and satisfaction in these small, personal rituals and her consistent taste for certain well-loved products.
4. **Special K Cereal**If there’s one item on this list that truly exemplifies Queen Elizabeth’s preference for simplicity, it’s her choice of breakfast cereal. After the tea and biscuits and the morning ablutions, the Queen would sit down to her “official breakfast.” And what culinary marvel did her team of 20 chefs prepare? Often, a bowl of cold cereal, rumored to be Special K.
Yes, you read that right. Special K. In a palace with an array of gastronomic possibilities, the world’s longest-reigning monarch would frequently opt for a humble box of cereal. This tidbit, reported by McGrady and various articles on her eating habits, offers a fascinating glimpse into the Queen’s pragmatic approach to daily meals. While sometimes toast and marmalade might also grace the table, eggs, surprisingly, were a rarity for her morning meal.
It’s a truly unexpected choice for someone who could literally have anything cooked to order. This preference underscores her sensible and unfussy nature when it came to personal dining. It wasn’t about ostentation or constant novelty; it was about routine, reliability, and, perhaps, a touch of personal comfort derived from a familiar, uncomplicated start to the day. For a woman whose public life was always under intense scrutiny, these private moments often reflected a desire for normalcy.
Her choice of Special K is a reminder that even the most exalted individuals have preferences that resonate with everyday life. It’s a wonderfully relatable detail that helps demystify the royal mystique, showing that sometimes, a good old bowl of cereal is exactly what even a Queen wants to kickstart her day, proving that simple pleasures can indeed be royal.
5. **Grilled Dover Sole or Scottish Salmon with Spinach and Zucchini**When it came to lunch, especially when dining alone, Queen Elizabeth adhered to a strict and remarkably disciplined eating pattern. Forget heavy, elaborate midday meals; her preference leaned strongly towards a high-protein, low-carb regimen. This wasn’t just a casual choice; it was a consistent approach that contributed to her well-being and longevity.
Former chef Darren McGrady frequently highlighted this aspect of her diet. He revealed to *The Telegraph* that grilled Dover sole or Scottish salmon, accompanied by simple, fresh vegetables like spinach and zucchini, was one of her particular favorites. This meal perfectly encapsulates her commitment to healthy eating, focusing on lean protein and nutrient-rich greens, prepared with understated elegance.
McGrady famously stated, according to a piece in *Bustle*, “When she dines on her own, she’s very disciplined. No starch is the rule.” This ‘no starch’ rule meant that items like pasta, rice, and potatoes were strictly off the menu when she ate alone, emphasizing her dedication to a lighter, more focused meal. It wasn’t about deprivation, but rather a deliberate choice for health and clarity, allowing her to maintain her demanding schedule without feeling weighed down.
This habit speaks volumes about her self-discipline and her understanding of what kept her feeling her best. It’s a powerful testament to her practical nature and her consistent effort to maintain her health throughout her incredibly long reign, prioritizing nutritious simplicity over indulgent extravagance, especially during her solitary meals.
6. **Simple Grilled Chicken Salad**Continuing with her disciplined approach to lunch, the Queen was also known to enjoy a very simple grilled chicken salad. This choice perfectly aligned with her high-protein, low-carb philosophy, offering another light and healthy option that kept her energized without being overly heavy. It was a straightforward, yet satisfying meal that reflected her practical preferences.
This kind of meal — grilled chicken served with a fresh salad — was a staple for her solitary lunches. It provided all the necessary nutrients without the added starches that she typically avoided during these meals. It’s a clear example of how, despite having an entire kitchen staff at her disposal, she consciously opted for clean, uncomplicated food choices that supported her overall health and demanding lifestyle. This commitment to a specific eating pattern didn’t waver over the decades.
As McGrady often emphasized, what the Queen liked to eat every day didn’t change much in 60 years. This consistency wasn’t just about habit; it was about a deeply ingrained understanding of what worked best for her body and mind. The grilled chicken salad wasn’t just food; it was fuel, chosen with intention and eaten with discipline, allowing her to approach her royal duties with sustained vitality.
Her preference for such straightforward meals, even when the world’s most luxurious ingredients were within reach, highlights a powerful aspect of her character: a commitment to self-care through simple, wholesome eating. It’s a wonderful reminder that true elegance often lies in understated choices, proving that a royal plate doesn’t always need to be piled high with pomp and circumstance to be perfectly satisfying and incredibly beneficial.
7. **Cucumber Sandwiches**Afternoon tea was a non-negotiable ritual for Queen Elizabeth, a beloved part of her daily schedule that was observed faithfully. While the menu for afternoon tea included a variety of treats, one item stood out as quintessentially British and, in the Queen’s hands, remarkably specific: the cucumber sandwich. But this wasn’t just any cucumber sandwich; it was a perfectly crafted, delicate affair, refined to royal standards.
Former royal chef Darren McGrady, a master of palace culinary secrets, even demonstrated the in-depth, yet simple, preparation of the Queen’s favored cucumber sandwich on his YouTube channel. It began, as all good sandwiches do, with fresh white bread. This was then slathered with a delicate layer of cream cheese, which had a touch of fresh spearmint mixed in – a subtle, yet significant, addition that elevated the classic flavor profile. Very thinly shaved cucumber slices were then meticulously laid atop the cream cheese.
The attention to detail didn’t stop there. Once assembled, the crusts of the sandwiches were carefully cut off, ensuring every bite was soft and uniform. Finally, the elegant creation was cut into dainty, two-bite portions, making them perfectly suited for formal tea settings and delicate handling. This meticulous preparation transformed a humble ingredient into a sophisticated snack, fit for a Queen.
This particular sandwich choice, with its specific ingredients and preparation, perfectly encapsulates the blend of tradition and understated refinement that characterized much of Queen Elizabeth’s personal tastes. It reflects a dedication to quality and a quiet enjoyment of classic, well-prepared dishes that, despite their apparent simplicity, held a special place in her daily routine and provided a moment of comforting familiarity amid her extraordinary life.
8. **Croque Monsieur**Prepare to be utterly charmed, because Queen Elizabeth II’s most secretly craved comfort food wasn’t some obscure royal delicacy, but a dish many of us adore in a casual cafe: the Croque Monsieur. This revelation, straight from her former chef Darren McGrady, paints a picture of a monarch who, like us, sometimes just wanted a really good grilled cheese. It was her “Parisian bistro favorite,” a delightful detail that adds a touch of accessible elegance to her palate.
McGrady spilled the beans in a radio interview, describing it as “a melted cheese on toast, made with Gruyère cheese and ham.” For those uninitiated, the traditional French snack, whose name literally translates to “Mister Crunchy,” has roots in early 20th-century Paris bistros. It’s a testament to simple, yet perfectly executed flavors, often made with nutty Gruyère cheese and classic jambon de Paris, making it a beloved staple across France.
But of course, the Queen’s version came with a distinctly royal twist! While a classic Croque Monsieur typically features melted cheese and ham, sometimes topped with béchamel sauce, Her Majesty preferred hers with “whipped eggs” on top. This subtle alteration turned it into a slightly amended version of a Croque Madame, which traditionally features a fried egg. It’s a wonderful example of how even her comfort foods were given a personal touch, elevating a simple dish to something uniquely hers.
This choice wasn’t just about indulgence; it was about familiarity and a taste that brought her genuine comfort. It’s fascinating to think that despite having an entire palace kitchen at her disposal, some of her greatest food joys came from these straightforward, well-loved dishes. It goes to show that even for a Queen, a perfectly crafted grilled cheese, with an added royal flair, could hit just the right spot.
9. **Chocolate Biscuit Cake**If there was one sweet indulgence that truly held the Queen’s heart, it was undoubtedly her chocolate biscuit cake. This wasn’t merely a dessert; it was a beloved institution, an item so cherished that its reputation for being off-limits to everyone else in the palace is legendary. Former royal chef Darren McGrady, who spent 11 years cooking for her, confirmed that she was an absolute “chocoholic,” and this cake was the pinnacle of her chocolate devotion.
McGrady revealed that if anything with chocolate was on the menu, the Queen would choose it, especially desserts like chocolate perfection pie. However, the chocolate biscuit cake held a special, almost sacred, place. Unlike other leftover cakes that would be shared among the palace staff after afternoon tea, this particular confection was strictly reserved for the Queen’s continued enjoyment. It was her own personal treasure.
The rules surrounding this cake were delightfully strict. McGrady recounted a charming anecdote about its journey: “The chocolate biscuit cake is different. She has a little slice. It comes down to the kitchen and then we keep it safe because it has to go up again tomorrow.” He emphasized, “And it goes up again and again and again and again every day until it’s all gone.” Imagine a cake being transported between kitchen and royal chambers daily, enduring journeys until its very last crumb was consumed!
This incredible dedication to a single cake speaks volumes about the Queen’s preferences. It wasn’t about gluttony, but a deep appreciation for a specific, beloved taste and texture. It showcases her consistent affection for certain foods, providing a comforting presence in her daily routine. The chocolate biscuit cake wasn’t just a dessert; it was a symbol of her enduring, sweet-toothed loyalty.
10. **Fish and Chips (Panko Crusted)**Just like any true Brit, Queen Elizabeth II harbored a fondness for the quintessential national dish: fish and chips. However, in true royal fashion, her preferred version wasn’t your average battered cod from the local chippy. According to Chef McGrady, the Queen enjoyed a refined, yet equally satisfying, take on this classic, showcasing her inclination for both tradition and subtle elevation.
McGrady explained that her fish wasn’t prepared with the traditional thick, crispy batter many associate with fish and chips. Instead, she favored a “panko crusted” approach. Panko breadcrumbs, known for their light, airy, and extra-crispy texture, would have provided a delicate crunch that beautifully complemented the fish, offering a more refined experience than a heavy, greasy batter. It was a simple upgrade that demonstrated her discerning palate.
And what about the chips? The Queen’s potatoes weren’t just casually tossed onto the plate. McGrady humorously described how she would enjoy her “chips piled and stacked up like in the game Jenga.” This vivid image paints a picture of perfectly cut, golden-brown chips, meticulously arranged. It’s a small, yet charming, detail that hints at the careful presentation of even her more casual comfort foods, ensuring every meal was served with a touch of royal precision.
This unique preference for panko-crusted fish and artfully stacked chips highlights how Queen Elizabeth found joy in familiar dishes while allowing for personalized, elegant touches. It’s a delightful reminder that even a monarch, with access to the world’s most exotic foods, could appreciate the simple pleasures of a national favorite, prepared exactly to her exacting standards. Who knew fish and chips could be so royal?
11. **Morecambe Bay Potted Shrimp on Toast**Another delightful British classic that found its way onto Queen Elizabeth’s menu was Morecambe Bay potted shrimp on toast. This dish, steeped in regional heritage, speaks to the Queen’s appreciation for locally sourced, traditional fare. It’s a truly unique item that reflects her varied and specific tastes for comforting, savory snacks.
The shrimp for this dish originate from the North Eastern coastline, specifically Morecambe Bay, a region renowned for its delicate, flavorful crustaceans. These aren’t just any shrimp; they are a celebrated local delicacy, harvested with care and transformed into a rich, aromatic preparation. This emphasis on geographical origin and specific produce was a common thread in the Queen’s preferences, aligning with her love for ‘home-grown produce’ that she passed down to King Charles.
Once harvested, the shrimp are cooked and then marinated in a spicy butter, creating a rich, intensely flavored condiment. This meticulous preparation results in a spread that is both luxurious and comforting, bursting with a unique blend of spice and seafood flavor. It’s a sophisticated taste that offers a glimpse into the more traditional and refined elements of British cuisine that Her Majesty enjoyed.
The Queen’s preferred way to enjoy this delicacy was simply spread on warm toast. This understated presentation belies the complexity of flavors within the potted shrimp, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through. It underscores her consistent preference for well-prepared, high-quality, and traditional British dishes that provided both comfort and a touch of regional authenticity. It’s a classic that perfectly suited her royal palate.
12. **Tomato Sandwiches**While cucumber sandwiches were a well-known staple of her afternoon tea, Queen Elizabeth also had an affection for the equally classic, yet understated, tomato sandwich. This simple offering, part of the traditional afternoon tea spread, further highlights her consistent preference for fresh, uncomplicated ingredients, prepared with meticulous care.
Former royal chef Darren McGrady, ever the fount of royal culinary knowledge, even demonstrated the preparation of the Queen’s favored tomato sandwich on his popular YouTube channel. As with the cucumber variety, it began with fresh white bread, providing a soft base for the vibrant filling. Very thinly sliced tomatoes were then carefully arranged, allowing their natural sweetness and slight acidity to shine through, unmasked by heavy flavors.
In keeping with royal tea etiquette, the attention to detail continued with the presentation. The crusts of the assembled sandwiches were meticulously removed, ensuring every bite was delicate and uniform. These elegant creations were then cut into dainty, two-bite portions, making them perfectly suited for formal tea settings and graceful consumption, as befits a monarch.
This choice of a tomato sandwich, alongside other delicate options, exemplifies the Queen’s appreciation for classic, well-prepared dishes that, despite their apparent simplicity, held a special place in her daily routine. It’s another example of how she found comfort and satisfaction in traditional, unpretentious foods, valuing quality and consistency above all else, even during a seemingly lavish afternoon tea.
13. **Jam Pennies**Beyond the sophisticated spreads and formal meals, Queen Elizabeth also harbored a charming fondness for what were affectionately known as “Jam Pennies.” This particular treat takes us back to her childhood, revealing a sweet, nostalgic preference that speaks to a simpler time and the enduring power of classic, comforting flavors.
McGrady lovingly described and even demonstrated these dainty little sandwiches. They weren’t elaborate confections but rather a straightforward combination of simple strawberry jam and butter. The jam itself was no ordinary preserve; it was made in the castle kitchens using fresh Scottish strawberries, underscoring the royal family’s commitment to quality, often home-grown produce, even for the most humble of snacks.
The most distinctive feature of Jam Pennies was their unique shape. Once assembled, these small sandwiches were cut into perfect circles, precisely “the size of the old English penny.” This meticulous detail transformed a basic jam and butter sandwich into a delightful, almost playful, bite-sized treat. It’s a testament to the fact that even childhood snacks in a royal household came with an element of careful presentation.
This specific childhood favorite illustrates a touching, relatable side of the Queen. It shows her enduring connection to personal history and simple pleasures. The Jam Pennies weren’t just food; they were a taste of her past, a reminder that even the longest-reigning monarch found joy in the sweet, uncomplicated memories associated with a perfectly crafted, miniature jam sandwich.
14. **Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches**As the Queen settled into her daily afternoon tea, the spread would include not just sweet cakes and scones, but also a selection of savory sandwiches to balance the palate. Among these, the smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich stood out as a favored choice, offering a touch of elegance and a rich, satisfying flavor profile perfectly suited for a royal tea.
This particular sandwich combination is a quintessential element of traditional British afternoon tea, known for its delicate yet luxurious taste. The rich, savory notes of smoked salmon, paired with the cool, creamy texture of cream cheese, create a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a classic pairing that speaks to her refined, yet consistent, preferences for well-loved British culinary traditions.
Much like her cucumber and tomato sandwiches, these too would have been prepared with the utmost care. Imagine thinly sliced smoked salmon, carefully laid over a spread of cream cheese on crustless white bread, then precisely cut into elegant, two-bite portions. This attention to detail ensured that every element of her afternoon tea was perfectly presented and easy to enjoy.
Her preference for such a classic and widely enjoyed sandwich underscores her pragmatic approach to dining. It wasn’t always about groundbreaking cuisine, but often about appreciating the timeless perfection of well-known dishes, expertly prepared. The smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich offered a consistently pleasing and sophisticated option within her cherished daily tea ritual, proving that sometimes, the best choices are the familiar ones.
15. **Dark Chocolate (and Floral Truffles)**Concluding our delicious journey through Queen Elizabeth’s culinary quirks, it’s clear that while she embraced simplicity in many aspects of her diet, her heart truly belonged to chocolate. Not just any chocolate, mind you – her royal preference was distinctly for the dark side. Darren McGrady, her former chef, famously called her an “absolute chocoholic,” a sentiment many of us can relate to with great enthusiasm.
When it came to chocolate, the Queen was very particular: “It has to be the dark chocolate, the darker the better.” She had no fondness for milk chocolate or white chocolate, demonstrating a sophisticated palate that gravitated towards the intense, complex flavors of higher cocoa content. This preference for quality and depth of flavor extended to her occasional indulgences in homemade chocolate desserts, including, as McGrady noted, chocolate perfection pie.
Her chocolate love didn’t stop at cakes and pies; it also extended to truffles, where her tastes veered towards the exquisitely unique. According to the head chocolatier of Charbonnel et Walker, one of her preferred brands, the Queen had “very floral tastes.” Rose and violet-flavored truffles were reportedly at the top of her list, adding a delicate, aromatic dimension to her chocoholic tendencies. This particularity highlights a monarch who knew exactly what she liked, down to the subtle botanical notes in her confections.
From a simple Croque Monsieur to the rich complexity of dark chocolate and floral truffles, Queen Elizabeth’s culinary world was a fascinating blend of tradition, discipline, and delightful quirks. Her food choices were not just about sustenance; they were woven into the fabric of her daily life, reflecting her character—a blend of consistency, practicality, and an occasional, utterly charming, indulgence. Her Majesty truly proved that you don’t need endless extravagance to enjoy a truly rich and fulfilling gastronomic life, especially when it involves good dark chocolate and a bit of discipline.
And there you have it, a delightful peek behind the royal curtains, revealing that even a Queen, with access to the world’s most luxurious cuisine, found joy in the surprisingly simple, the comfortingly familiar, and the occasionally indulgent. Her tastes were a testament to her enduring character: disciplined, traditional, and, at times, wonderfully relatable. Who knew the monarch who reigned for 70 years also had such a specific, and utterly charming, love affair with quince jelly, panko-crusted fish, and very dark chocolate? It just goes to show, there’s always something fascinating to uncover about the most iconic figures, especially when it comes to their secret snack stashes!
