Where should Obama eat in Lawrence? The people weigh in

President Barack Obama orders barbecue at Arthur Bryant’s, the legendary barbecue restaurant in Kansas City, Mo., July 29, 2014.

After news broke that President Barack Obama would be paying a visit to Lawrence this week, my esteemed colleagues reported all the important bits of information, like what issues Obama would address in his speech and what kinds of security measures would be taken during his stay.

Here in our foodie corner, though, the questions were a little less sophisticated. Namely, where should the president grab a bite to eat?

We posed the question over Twitter, and received a dozen or so suggestions from readers.

A few who chimed in via Twitter suggested a Lawrence dining icon: Free State Brewing Company. Other recommendations: Jefferson’s, Terrebonne Cafe, Munchers Bakery and The Roost.

Though he’s been known to enjoy a hot dog or hamburger in his day, a few years back Obama claimed that broccoli (yes, broccoli) is his favorite food. The question was posed by a kiddie journalist at a “Kids’ State Dinner” that honored winners of a healthy-cooking contest, so maybe his declaration of love for broccoli should be taken with a grain of salt. (See my food pun there?)

Whether the broccoli thing is true, many of you still think a trip to Sylas and Maddy’s is mandatory. The folks at Ladybird Diner lobbied for their pie (coconut cream is the president’s rumored favorite), with support from a local fan or two.

If the president fancies a drink after his speech, he ought to stop by Red Lyon, The Sandbar or Henry’s Upstairs, readers say.

Got a dining suggestion for the president? We’d love to hear it. You can comment below, on Facebook, by email and Tweeting @lcom or @hlavacekjoanna.

In other presidential food news, Ramen Bowls has created a new dish in honor of the commander-in-chief’s visit. It’s called the Obama Bowl, and it’s “loaded with his favorite healthy foods,” according to the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Apparently, that includes spicy ginger-miso broth with rice noodles, Norwegian smoked salmon, shiitake mushrooms, roasted red peppers, stir-fried broccoli and seaweed.

The special runs Wednesday through Friday, and costs $10.50. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.

Tips welcome!

Try something unusual or know of something interesting going on at a Lawrence restaurant? Send me an email at jhlavacek@ljworld.com or contact me on Twitter @hlavacekjoanna. For more local food and restaurant news, click here.