The Monte Cristo Sandwich

The Monte Cristo sandwich is thought to be an Americanized twist on a French sandwich, the Croque Monsieur, which was first served in Paris cafés in 1910. However, the exact origins of the Monte Cristo itself remain a mystery. Several similar sandwiches are mentioned in American cookbooks between 1930 and 1960. Food historians generally agree that the sandwich originated in California, likely in the 1950s, but no hard evidence has been found thus far. We do know that Disneyland in Anaheim, California gave a big boost to the Monte Cristo when the sandwich was added to the menus of the Blue Bayou and Tahitian Terrace restaurants in New Orleans Square in 1966. Many famous restaurant chains also offer a Monte Cristo sandwich, including The Cheesecake Factory and Bennigan’s. While it may not be the trendiest sandwich in America these days, the Monte Cristo remains a beloved classic that is still quite popular in many areas, particularly for brunch.