Jesus Miranda talks President Obama, fashion shows, conchas and pizza

Jesus Miranda has worked for Bon Appetite, located at The Art Institute of Chicago, for about five years, highlighted by a brush with President Obama, who was there for a dinner/interview.

"There was so much security, inspections; we couldn't (even) get our phone cameras, for any reason," Miranda recalled. "At the end of (Obama's) interview, they had to get the President out of the building through the back entrance, which (meant they) had to go through the kitchen, where all the staff was.

"They made us hide so the President would (not) have any pictures taken and (for) security purposes. (But) when the President comes in the kitchen area, he sees everyone scramble in one corner saying 'Hi' to him. He smiled and (told) security to let everyone take a picture."

Miranda, 24, who lives in Lakeview, has called Chicago home for almost 11 years. And for the past two years, he also has worked for Culinaire International at the Museum of Contemporary Art.

"At the Art Institute, we are in charge of the special events, such as weddings, corporate dinners, receptions, fashion shows, meeting and so many more (events)," Miranda said. "My job, along with my co-workers, is to make sure that everything gets done and (is) ready, as the event's timeline says.

"The best part of my job is that every day is a different event; it's always something new. I also get to meet important people, such as the President Obama, Michelle Obama, celebrities, models and many others."

His job also has included fashion shows. And as he points out, "you know every gay men loves fashion ... well, at least most gay men."

Miranda suggested everyone visit the Art Institute for multiple reasons, particularly its history lessons.

"During my time off (from work), I like to work-out, go out with friends, go to the movies, and (dining out)," Miranda said. "I love spending as much time as I can with my loved one; and dancing the night away to circuit or house music with friends is something I really enjoy and do often."

More About Jesus Miranda:

On Chicago: "The best part (of) living in Chicago is that we have the four seasons. I love that I can get to wear everything – from short shorts to heavy jackets. I love the hot summer and also love the cold winter."

Growing Up: "Something my friends would be surprised to know is that when was a kid, I was the nerd (who) would carry all his books while carting more in his backpack. I was that kid who never, ever skipped school or a class."

Working Out: "I take my workout routine very serious. I have a fitness plan that consist of six phases. Each phase contains a whole week work out from Monday (to) Friday. It's at least 10-15 exercises that work out one body part, and every day I workout a different part of my body. I repeat one phase for two weeks, then move to the next phase."

Cheat Day From His Diet: Sundays. "I try to eat healthy every day, but one thing I can't say 'No' to is sweet bread. I love cakes and Mexican sweet bread (conchas); I can eat it every day. I try to stay away from those delicious things, but I don't try hard enough because I still eat them."

Favorite Chicago Bar: Sidetrack. "Everyone who knows me would think I would had (say), Hydrate. But I think Sidetrack is really big with different sections and bars and floors. I love hydrate because of the music they play, but as of space and looks, Sidetrack wins. If they (only) played Hydrate's music at Sidetrack."

Now Serving: At bars he opts for vodka drinks. At restaurants, it's wine.

Favorite Chicago Restaurants: Jellyfish, RPM Italian, Morton's, Cantina Laredo, and Signature Room.

Favorite Holiday: Christmas

Star-Gazing: The celebrity he'd like to meet is, Beyoncé, who is his favorite singer.

Dream Vacation Destination: Paris

Gym Music: House Music. "It gives me motivation and helps me get that energy I need to lift."

Pizza: A favorite of his, he prefers it with pepperoni, jalapeños, and Hawaiian-style.

Boxers or Briefs: "I mostly use briefs when I go to work, but when I'm not at work, I don't (wear) underwear."

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