There’s nothing quite like a hearty, warm sandwich to lift your spirits during lunch. One of the most beloved lunch-time sandwiches in the United States is the Reuben. Whether you enjoy it with a side of crispy fries, a side salad, or a steaming bowl of soup, there’s no denying that the Reuben has become an iconic dish in American cuisine.
But have you ever wondered how this delicious combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing came to be? As a favorite lunch restaurant in the Decaturville, Missouri area, RJ’s Family Restaurant is proud to serve this classic sandwich. Below, we are going to explore the history and origins of the Reuben sandwich, explaining how it became the lunchtime favorite it is today.
The Mystery of the Reuben’s Origins
The Reuben sandwich has a long history, but its exact origins remain somewhat of a mystery. There are multiple stories about who first created the sandwich, and each one claims to have the definitive version. The most popular legends trace the sandwich back to New York City in the early 20th century, though the details vary depending on who’s telling the story.
One popular theory credits the creation of the Reuben to a New York delicatessen owner named Arnold Reuben. According to this tale, Reuben was a Jewish deli owner who invented the sandwich sometime around 1914. The story goes that Reuben wanted to create something new and special for his customers, so he combined corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and grilled it all on rye bread. The sandwich became a huge hit, and the Reuben sandwich was born. This version of the story is likely the most widely accepted, though some still dispute it.
Regardless of who truly created the Reuben, one thing is certain: the sandwich took off in the early 20th century, becoming a lunchtime favorite in delis across the country. The combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all held together by buttery rye bread, was a winning formula that quickly caught on.
The Evolution of the Reuben Sandwich
As the Reuben sandwich gained in popularity, it began to appear on menus across the United States, though it wasn’t always made in the same way. While the classic Reuben calls for corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, there are countless variations of the sandwich that have emerged over the years. Some people prefer to use pastrami in place of corned beef, while others swap out the rye bread for sourdough or whole wheat. In fact, in some regions, you might find a “Reuben” made with turkey instead of corned beef, creating what’s known as a “Turkey Reuben.”
As one of the most popular lunch restaurants in Decaturville, Missouri area, our staff at RJ’s puts our own twist on the classic Reuben by using fresh, high-quality ingredients that make each bite a satisfying experience. Our Reuben sandwich is a customer favorite from the perfectly grilled rye bread to the savory, melt-in-your-mouth corned beef. Whether you prefer it the classic way or with a slight variation, we aim to craft the best Reuben in Decaturville.
The Reuben Sandwich Today
The Reuben sandwich has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Today, it’s a staple at delis, cafes, and restaurants nationwide, including here at RJ’s Family Restaurant. We take pride in serving our version of this classic sandwich, made with the freshest ingredients and grilled to perfection. It’s the kind of sandwich that fills you up and keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal during lunch, or you’re looking to enjoy a nostalgic bite, the Reuben never disappoints.
At RJ’s, our lunch menu features a variety of delicious options, but the Reuben is one of our most popular. Served with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad, it’s the perfect way to fuel up during a busy day or enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends or family. We believe that a great sandwich is about more than just good ingredients—it’s about the care and attention that goes into every meal we prepare. That’s why our customers return time and time again to enjoy a Reuben from RJ’s in Decaturville, Missouri.
Looking for the Best Lunch Restaurant in the Decaturville, Missouri Area?
Are you in the mood for a delicious Reuben? If so, and if you’d like to enjoy one at the best lunch restaurant in the Decaturville, Missouri area, RJ’s Family Restaurant is the place to visit. We serve up the best sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads in town, all made fresh and served with a side of friendly hospitality. Stop by for a bite and experience the comfort and flavor of our home-cooked meals. Contact us today at 573-346-6133.