The Reuben sandwich. A culinary masterpiece. A symphony of flavors. A textural wonderland. Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian (or Thousand Island) dressing, grilled to golden perfection between slices of rye bread. But who is the culinary genius, the accidental inventor, the stroke-of-luck chef who first brought this iconic sandwich into existence? The answer, like a perfectly marbled piece of corned beef, is layered and complex. While the sandwich’s exact origins remain debated, two main contenders vie for the title: Reuben Kulakofsky of Omaha, Nebraska, and Arnold Reuben of Reuben’s Restaurant in New York City.
The Omaha Claim: Reuben Kulakofsky and the Blackstone Hotel
The most widely accepted story, and the one strongly championed by Omaha, points to Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer. According to this version, the Reuben sandwich was born at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha sometime around 1920, possibly as early as 1922.
A Midnight Snack for a Poker Game
The legend goes that Kulakofsky was participating in a weekly poker game held at the Blackstone Hotel. The players, including the hotel’s owner, Charles Schimmel, often got hungry during these late-night sessions. One evening, Kulakofsky, known for his love of corned beef, requested something different than the usual fare.
The hotel’s cook, likely inspired by Kulakofsky’s preferences and the ingredients on hand, improvised a sandwich using corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. The result was an instant hit with the poker players.
Charles Schimmel, impressed by the creation, added the sandwich to the Blackstone Hotel’s menu, naming it the “Reuben” in honor of its creator, Reuben Kulakofsky. This origin story is supported by numerous accounts and historical records within Omaha.
Rose’s Restaurant: Spreading the Reuben’s Fame
The Reuben’s popularity at the Blackstone Hotel led to its inclusion on the menu of Rose’s Restaurant, owned by Schimmel’s family. Rose’s was a well-known and respected establishment, further solidifying the Reuben’s reputation and spreading its fame throughout the region. Local newspapers and food critics began to take notice, and the sandwich quickly gained a devoted following.
The New York Claim: Arnold Reuben and Reuben’s Restaurant
The other significant claim to the Reuben’s invention rests with Arnold Reuben, the owner of Reuben’s Restaurant in New York City. This version of the story paints a very different picture of the sandwich’s creation.
A Starlet’s Craving: Marjorie Rambeau and the “Reuben Special”
According to this narrative, in 1914, actress Marjorie Rambeau visited Reuben’s Restaurant late one night, reportedly craving something new and exciting. Arnold Reuben, eager to please his celebrity clientele, whipped up a sandwich using ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on rye bread. He called it the “Reuben Special” in her honor.
A Different Sandwich, a Different Story
It’s important to note that the “Reuben Special” described in the New York version differs significantly from the Reuben sandwich we know and love today. The inclusion of ham, roast pork, and coleslaw sets it apart from the corned beef and sauerkraut-based classic.
Furthermore, many food historians question the timeline of the New York story. While Arnold Reuben’s Restaurant was a popular spot, there’s little contemporary evidence to support the claim that he invented the Reuben sandwich or that it became a signature dish at his establishment during the early 20th century.
Weighing the Evidence: Omaha vs. New York
So, which story holds more weight? While the New York claim has its supporters, the Omaha version is generally considered the more credible and better-documented. Several factors contribute to this conclusion.
Supporting Documentation for the Omaha Claim
The Omaha story is supported by multiple accounts from people who knew Reuben Kulakofsky and Charles Schimmel. Local newspaper articles and restaurant menus from the period also lend credence to the narrative. Historians in Omaha have actively researched and promoted the city’s claim to the Reuben’s invention, compiling a substantial body of evidence.
The “Corned Beef Factor”
A crucial difference between the two stories lies in the core ingredient: corned beef. The Omaha version centers around Reuben Kulakofsky’s known fondness for corned beef, making it a logical starting point for his culinary creation. The New York story, with its inclusion of ham and roast pork, seems less aligned with a specific ingredient preference.
The Evolution of the Sandwich
It’s possible that both Arnold Reuben and Reuben Kulakofsky created sandwiches that they called “Reuben Specials.” However, the sandwich that evolved into the Reuben we know today, with its focus on corned beef and sauerkraut, is more likely to have originated in Omaha. The New York “Reuben Special,” while perhaps a tasty creation in its own right, appears to have remained a distinct and separate entity.
The Enduring Appeal of the Reuben
Regardless of its precise origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved staple of American cuisine. Its perfect balance of salty, savory, tangy, and creamy flavors makes it a truly satisfying and unforgettable culinary experience.
Beyond the Ingredients: A Symbol of Comfort Food
The Reuben’s appeal extends beyond its delicious ingredients. It represents comfort food at its finest, evoking feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and simple pleasures. It’s a sandwich that’s often associated with diners, delis, and cozy restaurants, places where people gather to enjoy good food and good company.
Variations on a Theme: The Reuben’s Legacy
The Reuben’s enduring popularity has inspired countless variations and interpretations. From turkey Reubens to vegetarian Reubens made with tempeh or mushrooms, chefs and home cooks alike have put their own spin on this classic sandwich. These variations demonstrate the Reuben’s versatility and its ability to adapt to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Conclusion: The Reuben’s Origin Story Remains a Delicious Mystery
The question of who invented the Reuben sandwich may never be definitively answered. While the Omaha story appears to be the more plausible and well-supported, the New York claim adds another layer of intrigue to the sandwich’s history. Ultimately, the debate over the Reuben’s origins is a testament to its enduring appeal and its significance in American culinary culture. Whether it was a poker game inspiration or a starlet’s craving that sparked its creation, the Reuben sandwich has earned its place as a true classic. The legacy of the Reuben lives on, continuing to delight taste buds and spark culinary creativity around the world. It’s a sandwich that transcends its ingredients, becoming a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the simple joy of a well-made meal.
What is the central debate surrounding the origin of the Reuben sandwich?
The central debate revolves around who truly invented the Reuben sandwich. There are two primary contenders for this title: Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, and Arnold Reuben, the owner of Reuben’s Delicatessen in New York City. Each side has supporters who believe their candidate is the rightful creator of this iconic sandwich.
The disagreement stems from conflicting accounts and a lack of definitive documentation definitively proving either claim. Kulakofsky’s supporters point to a weekly poker game held at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha in the 1920s, where he is said to have concocted the sandwich for his poker buddies. Conversely, Arnold Reuben’s proponents argue that he invented the sandwich in 1914 at his New York deli, claiming it was created for actress Annette Seelos.
What are the key pieces of evidence supporting Reuben Kulakofsky’s claim?
Proponents of Reuben Kulakofsky cite testimony from family members and historical accounts linking him to the invention of the Reuben sandwich at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha during the 1920s. They emphasize the weekly poker games held there, suggesting that he frequently prepared food for the players and likely experimented with ingredients until he landed on the now-famous combination. This local connection and anecdotal evidence lend credence to the Kulakofsky narrative.
Furthermore, the Blackstone Hotel itself plays a crucial role in solidifying the Nebraska origin story. Historical menus and mentions of the “Reuben” sandwich appearing at the hotel in the years following the alleged invention lend support to the idea that Kulakofsky’s creation gained popularity locally and eventually spread from there. These regional roots are a significant part of his claim.
What are the main arguments in favor of Arnold Reuben as the originator of the Reuben?
The main argument supporting Arnold Reuben’s claim is the historical prominence of Reuben’s Delicatessen in New York City. Established in 1908, the deli was a well-known culinary landmark. Supporters claim that Reuben invented the sandwich in 1914 specifically for actress Annette Seelos, who frequented the restaurant. This narrative emphasizes the deli’s role in the sandwich’s supposed creation and early popularity.
Furthermore, some believe that Arnold Reuben’s culinary expertise and established business make him a more likely candidate. His deli was already a hub for innovative dishes, and it’s argued that inventing a new sandwich would be consistent with his establishment’s reputation. The supposed origin story, involving a famous actress, adds a layer of glamour and historical significance to his claim.
What are the typical ingredients of a classic Reuben sandwich?
A classic Reuben sandwich typically consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The specific proportions and variations in ingredient quality can affect the overall taste and texture, but these core components remain consistent across most recipes. The interplay between the savory meat, tangy sauerkraut, creamy cheese, and flavorful dressing creates a signature taste profile.
While some modern interpretations may substitute ingredients or incorporate additions, the traditional Reuben avoids significant deviations from this core formula. The specific type of rye bread (e.g., marbled or seeded) and the preparation of the corned beef can subtly alter the experience, but the fundamental ingredients remain unchanged to maintain its classic character.
Is there any definitive historical documentation proving who invented the Reuben?
Unfortunately, no universally accepted, definitive historical documentation exists to definitively prove either Reuben Kulakofsky or Arnold Reuben as the sole inventor of the Reuben sandwich. The claims are based on anecdotal evidence, family stories, and regional traditions, making it difficult to ascertain the absolute truth. Historians continue to analyze available records, but a conclusive answer remains elusive.
The lack of concrete evidence underscores the enduring mystery surrounding the Reuben’s origin. While passionate advocates champion each claimant, the absence of a smoking gun has allowed the debate to persist. This ambiguity contributes to the sandwich’s folklore and keeps the discussion alive among food enthusiasts.
How did the Reuben sandwich gain popularity and spread across the United States?
The Reuben sandwich’s popularity likely spread through a combination of factors, including word-of-mouth, exposure in culinary circles, and the growing popularity of delis in the mid-20th century. Once either Kulakofsky or Reuben popularized the sandwich locally, its unique flavor profile and satisfying combination of ingredients appealed to a wide audience. The post-World War II economic boom and increased travel also likely contributed to its spread.
The sandwich’s presence on restaurant menus across the country helped solidify its place in American culinary culture. Its adaptability and relatively simple preparation allowed chefs to easily incorporate it into their offerings. Over time, the Reuben became a staple in delis, diners, and even upscale restaurants, establishing its enduring legacy.
Why does the origin of the Reuben sandwich continue to be debated and discussed?
The ongoing debate surrounding the Reuben’s origin stems from the lack of conclusive proof and the strong regional affiliations associated with each claimant. The competing narratives, combined with anecdotal evidence and family pride, fuel the persistent discussion. The mystery adds a layer of intrigue to the sandwich, making it more than just a culinary creation; it’s a piece of contested history.
Furthermore, the Reuben sandwich holds a special place in American culinary heritage, prompting people to care deeply about its origins. The debate fosters a sense of connection to the past and a passion for preserving culinary traditions. The ongoing discussion ensures that the Reuben’s story remains alive and continues to be passed down through generations.