Marilyn Monroe, the epitome of Hollywood glamour and an enduring cultural icon, was not just a talented actress but also a woman with a deep appreciation for food. Though her life in the spotlight seemed larger than life, her culinary preferences revealed a relatable and eclectic palate.
From indulgent desserts to hearty meals, Marilyn’s love for food was as multifaceted as her on-screen persona. Let’s take a closer look at 14 foods and drinks that this legendary star adored.
1. Ice Cream Sundae
Marilyn had a sweet tooth, and nothing satisfied it quite like an ice cream sundae. After her evening drama classes, she often stopped by Wil Wright’s ice cream parlor in Beverly Hills for a hot fudge sundae. As she once told Pageant magazine, this indulgence was her guilty pleasure, balancing out her otherwise protein-heavy diet. While Wil Wright’s is no longer around, you can recreate this treat at home for your own Hollywood-inspired dessert night.
2. Raw Eggs in Milk
Marilyn’s breakfast routine was unconventional but health-focused. She started her day by heating up a cup of milk, cracking in two raw eggs, whipping them with a fork, and drinking the mixture while getting dressed. Though she admitted her eating habits were “bizarre,” she believed in the nutritional value of this high-protein breakfast and paired it with a multivitamin supplement.
3. Steak
A fan of the paleo lifestyle before it became trendy, Marilyn often cooked simple, protein-rich dinners. Her go-to meal? A broiled steak paired with raw carrots. She joked that she “must be part rabbit” because of her love for raw vegetables. For a modern twist on her favorite dish, try marinating your steak or pairing it with roasted veggies for added flavor.
4. Stuffing
Marilyn wasn’t just a fan of eating; she also enjoyed cooking elaborate dishes. Among her handwritten recipes was one for stuffing that featured 18 ingredients, including beef, eggs, and chicken or turkey liver. This labor-intensive dish showcased her commitment to creating flavorful meals from scratch. The use of sourdough bread soaked in water or broth added a unique touch to this classic dish.
5. Lamb Chops
When she wasn’t cooking steak, Marilyn loved lamb chops. She often picked them up from the market near her hotel and cooked them simply in her room’s electric oven. If you’re new to preparing lamb, try a quick pan-seared recipe with garlic or experiment with a chipotle chili rub for a flavorful kick.
6. Warm Cereal
Marilyn occasionally opted for warm cereal as a comforting breakfast choice. While it’s unclear exactly which cereals she enjoyed, warm oatmeal or milk-soaked cornflakes might have been on the menu. This simple meal offers a cozy start to any day and can be customized with fruits or spices for added flavor.
7. Rice Pudding
For dessert lovers, Marilyn’s fondness for rice pudding is especially endearing. Although the exact recipe she enjoyed remains unknown, classic baked rice pudding made with milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon is a likely candidate. For a modern twist, try a coconut chai version that adds depth with fragrant spices and coconut milk.
8. Champagne
What’s more glamorous than sipping Champagne? Marilyn was known to enjoy Dom Pérignon or Piper-Heidsieck, sometimes even starting her mornings with a glass. Her love for Champagne was so legendary that she once bathed in 350 bottles of it! Her favorite drink even inspired the “Marilyn Monroe Cocktail,” which combines Champagne, apple brandy, and grenadine.
9. Eggnog
Marilyn also enjoyed ending her day with an eggnog nightcap, sticking to her theme of combining eggs and dairy. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe with rum and nutmeg or a lighter vegan version made with almond milk and dates, this creamy drink is perfect for cozy evenings.
10. Beef Bourguignon
Marilyn wasn’t afraid of complex recipes, as evidenced by her handwritten notes on beef bourguignon. This French classic requires nearly three hours of preparation and features tender beef braised in red wine with vegetables and herbs. It’s a labor of love that reflects Marilyn’s appreciation for sophisticated cuisine.
11. Chili
During the filming of Some Like It Hot, Marilyn frequently visited Barney’s Beanery in Los Angeles for their famous chili. The restaurant still serves her favorite dish today, along with other varieties like turkey chili and three-bean chili. For an authentic Marilyn-inspired meal, stop by Barney’s or whip up your own pot of hearty chili at home.
12. Rum and Coke
While Champagne was her public drink of choice, Marilyn reportedly enjoyed rum and Coke when she wanted to unwind alone. For a more elevated take on this classic cocktail, try combining high-quality rum with cola syrup, bitters, and even a splash of Champagne for added sparkle.
13. Marrow Bone Soup
A believer in nutritious eating, Marilyn often prepared marrow bone soup, known today as bone broth. Packed with minerals like zinc and iron, this soup is both flavorful and healthful. For a heartier version, try adding barley or roasted vegetables to the broth for a filling meal.
14. Chocolate Soufflé
Marilyn had a soft spot for Romanoff’s restaurant in Beverly Hills, particularly their chocolate soufflé. While the restaurant has long since closed, you can recreate the magic at home with Jacques Pépin’s chocolate soufflé recipe. Pair it with orange sauce or Champagne for an indulgent treat worthy of Hollywood royalty.
A Glimpse Into Her Soul Through Food
Marilyn Monroe’s culinary preferences reveal a woman who balanced indulgence with simplicity and sophistication with relatability. Whether she was savoring a rich chocolate soufflé or sipping Champagne in the morning light, Marilyn approached food with the same passion and charm that defined her career. Why not channel your inner starlet by trying one of these dishes? After all, food isn’t just about sustenance — it’s about savoring life’s little pleasures.
