WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is taking first lady Michelle Obama out for a night on the town to celebrate her 48th birthday.

The president and first lady were dining Tuesday at BLT Steak not far from the White House. They were joined by White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett and friends.

Michelle Obama b’day: 48 memorable moments to celebrate the first lady’s 48th year

Earlier, with his wife at his side, the president gave her a lighthearted compliment at a White House event celebrating the St. Louis Cardinals’ World Series victory, saying that, “When we first married, it was a little controversial that she was 20 years younger than me, but now it seems to have worked out OK.”

Mrs. Obama spoke up to say she’s 48. The president is 50.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.