'Check, Please!' to air lost Obama episode

You know he was a lawyer, professor, community activist and senator. But did you know President-elect Barack Obama also has restaurant critic on his resume?

Well, sort of.

Back in 2001 when WTTW Channel 11's average Joe review show "Check, Please!" was in its fledgling years, the Illinois senator filmed a segment where he recommended Dixie Kitchen. The restaurant, which features Southern-style cuisine, has three locations around Chicago, one in Obama's Hyde Park neighborhood.

The show was shelved, producers said, because Obama was too articulate, reported WBEZ radio, and dominated the discussion, leaving the firefighter and retail buyer little time to get their two cents in.

WTTW plans to air the episode at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan 16, and at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20.

From the clip I've already seen on You-Tube, he likes Dixie Kitchen's peach cobbler. I wonder if White House Chef Cristeta Comerford (pictured) knows that already?

Speaking of White House chefs... it's not been a secret that the Obamas enjoy eating at some of Chicago's finer restaurants, such as Frontera Grill and Spiaggia. But will chefs Rick Bayless and Tony Mantuano leave the Windy City to join their favored patrons in Washingon, D.C.?

Sources in Michelle Obama's office say there are no plans at this time to replace chef Comerford. First lady Laura Bush appointed Comerford, a native of the Philippines, as the White House's top toque in 2005. Comerford, the first woman appointed as White House executive chef, has worked for the White House since 1995.

That said, don't be surprised if Chicago chefs get invited to Washington during Obama's administration. Chicago pastry diva Gale Gand counts White House pastry chef Bill Yosses in her circle of friends and said she's hoping for an opportunity to cook with him in the capital.