Ahead of his January 20 inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump is all set to follow in the footsteps of many of his predecessors. Going back to the same ritual that began with President George Washington in 1789, Trump will participate in an inauguration meal. Among the dishes to grace the table, he will be served an iconic staple: Legal Sea Foods' New England Clam Chowder.

Legal Sea Foods, based in Massachusetts, recalled that its New England clam chowder has had a place at the table since Reagan's 1981 administration. Chosen to embody Massachusetts, Legal Sea Foods has been part of the tradition of presenting a dish from each American state during the inauguration. The recipe for the clam chowder has not changed since it first made its inaugural appearance.

Chef Matt King, who has the honor of crafting the presidential portion alongside Brian Doyle, Vice President of Culinary, described the event as a humbling endeavor overseeing such a revered brand. Speaking to Food & Wine, King said, "Every morning I awaken to the knowledge that I have a duty to the thousands of Legal Sea Foods employees, to the city, and to the state to uphold their trust. We strive to provide top-quality seafood that reflects the spirit of Boston and Massachusetts as a whole."

As part of its inaugural menu standouts, America's Test Kitchen mentioned that at Reagan's first inaugural luncheon, the chowder shared the bill with California Garden Salad, chicken piquante medallions with rice pilaf, and asparagus, culminating with a strawberry framboise. Clinton's first inauguration in 1993 featured grill salmon, rosemary chicken, and apple-cranberry brown Betty, while Obama's first inaugural luncheon was graced with fish stew, duck breast, molasses sweet potatoes, followed by apple cinnamon sponge cake. The Clam Chowder was also present at Obama's second inauguration, accompanied by lobster tails, bison, and another apple pie.

Trump's 2017 inauguration almost broke the string, as the menu planners reached out to Legal Sea Foods just in the nick of time. Reflecting on the rescue, Roger Berkowitz, the then-CEO of the company, expressed joy that the tradition continued.

Considered a culinary gem, the chowder has garnered several accolades. The city of Boston declared January 15 "Chowda Day," even elevating it to a "legal" holiday. Celebrating the chowder's legacy, the restaurant offers New England Clam Chowder cups for $1, an effort to share the presidential experience with all.

"Legal Sea Foods' New England Clam Chowder is not just a bowl of soup, it's Boston and New England encapsulated," said King. "It embodies ocean breezes, coastal living, the fishing community, beach trips, and frosty New England winters – it's as symbolic of Boston as Paul Revere himself."