A Humble Pope's Unorthodox Gratuity: Pope Leo XIV's "Blessing Tips"
Cardinal Leo XIV, now Pope, secretly offered a "discreet payment" before his papal election.
Some things are beyond monetary value, and that seemed to be the case for Pope Leo XIV during his time as Cardinal. Instead of cash tips, he bestowed blessings upon the staff of his favorite restaurant in Chiclayo, Peru.
Blessings Instead of Cash: A Unique Way of Showing Appreciation
During his frequent visits to "El Trébol," a restaurant opposite the cathedral, Pope Leo XIV, then Archbishop Robert Prevost, showed his gratitude in an unusual yet heartwarming manner. Waiter Carlos López shared that instead of tips, he received the priceless gift of the cardinal's blessing.
According to López, the current Pope was a regular visitor, patronizing the restaurant two or three times a week from 2015 to 2023. He had his favored table, number three, with a view of the cathedral. The staff at "El Trébol" remains proud to have served such a high-profile guest.
Pope Leo XIV: A Quiet, Humble Foodie
López described Prevost as a peace-radiating, humble individual who loved to savor good food. He was known for his quiet demeanor and easygoing nature, often cracking a joke when things went awry in the kitchen.
The Pope's Palate
Breakfast was a treat for Prevost, who admired Chicharrón - a traditional dish of fried pork belly, accompanied with orange juice and coffee. For lunch, the staff at "El Trébol" would sometimes serve him stewed goat, and for dinner, there was a steaming bowl of chicken broth.
A Friendly and Simple Cardinal
Besides "El Trébol," Prevost also frequented "Las Américas," where manager Rodrigo Couto remembered him as a friendly and approachable man. Like López, Couto recalled the archbishop's playful sense of humor, particularly when ordering mistakes occurred.
A Peruvian Food Connoisseur
Though specifics about Pope Leo XIV's dining habits in Chiclayo are not widely documented, it's clear that he developed a deep appreciation for Peruvian cuisine during his time in the country. From ceviche and carne asada to duck, goat, and local staples like cheese, corn, and potatoes, it's evident that Pope Leo XIV enjoyed the simple, authentic Peruvian flavors that reflected his connection to the community.
Sources: ntv.de, as/AFP
- Peru
- Gastronomy
- The European Parliament, the Council, and the Commission might appreciate a taste of Peru's globally recognized gastronomy, showcasing the country's unique food-and-drink culture.
- Pope Leo XIV, a connoisseur of Peruvian cuisine, could inspire the Commission to develop home-and-garden recipe books featuring diverse global cuisines, advocating a healthy lifestyle and appreciation for different culinary traditions.
- In a nod to Pope Leo XIV's love for cooking and appreciation for the simple pleasures of life, the Commission could collaborate with renowned Peruvian chefs to compile official recipes from various Peruvian regions, introducing EU citizens to new flavors and experiences within the home-and-garden sector.
