Obama Tried to Buy Coffee—But Got Stopped by Secret Service

It’s not every day you hear about the President of the United States trying—and failing—to buy a cup of coffee. But that’s exactly what happened when Barack Obama appeared on Jerry Seinfeld’s web series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. The episode, part of Season 7, shows just how tightly controlled life is at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue—even for something as simple as stepping out for a caffeine fix.

Quick answer: Obama never got his coffee. He and Jerry Seinfeld were stopped by the Secret Service before they could exit the White House gates, despite the president’s best efforts. They ended up drinking coffee inside the White House instead.

It all started when Jerry Seinfeld pulled up to the White House in a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray to pick up President Obama for what was supposed to be a casual coffee run. But this was no ordinary ride: the iconic car, chosen by Seinfeld for its retro style, was the centerpiece of the show’s signature format—a comedian, a unique car, and a coffee stop.

As the pair prepared to leave, Seinfeld made a joke to a staffer inside the White House, asking, "I want to throw an apple, do you have a trash can?" Obama quickly responded with dry presidential wit: "That trash can is only for the president. You’ll have to throw it outside." The moment set the tone for the playful, character-driven episode—but things got more serious when they reached the gates.

The Great Coffee Escape That Wasn’t

Seinfeld, behind the wheel of the classic 'Vette, told the Secret Service, "We’re just going out to get coffee, we’ll be right back." The response was immediate and firm: "Sorry, that’s not possible. You’re with the president. We’re not going anywhere. Back it up."

Obama then took a turn at the wheel, asking if they could get through the gates. The answer was the same: a polite but absolute refusal. The Secret Service wasn’t budging. Despite the best efforts of both men, the coffee run was officially grounded before it began.

The whole exchange highlights just how restrictive life at the White House remains, even during informal appearances. For all his charisma and laid-back public persona, Obama was still very much confined by the security protocols that come with the office.

Coffee Inside the White House

Undeterred, the pair retreated to the White House’s residence area to enjoy coffee indoors. It wasn’t the spontaneous drive-thru they had hoped for, but they made the most of it. Sitting down with their cups, Obama and Seinfeld launched into a relaxed, revealing conversation that gave viewers a rare glimpse into the president’s off-duty personality.

The conversation touched on everything from Obama’s clothing habits to his pre-workout rituals. He revealed that he wears only one brand of underwear—and always in the same color. He also shared that he curses to blow off steam, shaves before hitting the gym, and has a love-hate relationship with tortilla chips.

Presidential Opinions and Unexpected Honesty

One of the most talked-about moments came when Seinfeld asked Obama, "How many world leaders do you think are actually crazy?" Without missing a beat, Obama replied, "A fairly significant percentage." The candid response drew laughs, but also underscored the unique perspective Obama gained during his time in office.

The entire segment was a masterclass in blending humor with insight. Seinfeld’s signature style—conversational, quirky, and deeply personal—paired perfectly with Obama’s thoughtful, self-aware demeanor. The coffee may not have happened, but the episode delivered plenty of substance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did President Obama really try to go out for coffee?

Yes. In Season 7, Episode 1 of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, President Obama joined host Jerry Seinfeld in a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette with the intention of leaving the White House to buy coffee. They were stopped by the Secret Service before they could exit the gates.

Why didn’t Obama leave the White House for coffee?

The Secret Service denied the request, stating that Obama could not leave with Seinfeld, even just for coffee. Despite both men’s attempts—Obama even tried driving—they were told it was not allowed and had to return inside.

What car did Jerry Seinfeld drive to pick up Obama?

Seinfeld arrived in a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray to collect President Obama for the coffee outing. The car is a classic American sports vehicle and is part of the show’s tradition of featuring unique cars for each episode.

What did Obama talk about during the indoor coffee chat?

Obama discussed a range of personal habits, including wearing only one brand of underwear in a single color, cursing to relieve stress, shaving before workouts, and his complicated feelings about tortilla chips. He also gave his candid opinion on world leaders.

Did they ever get coffee?

They didn’t get coffee from an outside café, but Obama and Seinfeld drank coffee together inside the White House residence after being denied permission to leave.

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