There are enough theories about the Reuben sandwich’s origin to do a Netflix docuseries. Theory one involves a weekly poker game at a 1920s Omaha, Nebraska, hotel and a grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky. Theory two: New York restaurateur Arnold Reuben’s created the “Reuben special” sandwich for his Reuben’s Delicatessen circa 1914. Theory three: The sandwich started at Reuben’s Delicatessen but was made up on the spot from scrounged-up ingredients for an actress dining there. Theory four also centers on Reuben’s Delicatessen, this time created by chef Alfred Scheuing for Arnold Reuben’s son, Arnold Jr.
Whatever the real story is, what’s undisputable is the Reuben’s a classic American sandwich. Below, in my opinion, are five Huntsville restaurants with must-do Reubens. All local, no chains. Let’s do it.
Thirsty Turtle
The Village on Whitesburg, 4800 Whitesburg Drive, thirstyturtlehuntsville.com
For tasty, satisfying and unfancy bar food, longtime Huntsvillians know Thirsty Turtle’s the jam. This classic local dive and service industry hang does solid burgers and chili, and their Reuben’s right too. Outfitted traditional with corned beef piled high on rye, with sauerkraut and Swiss. They have the Thousand Island dressing on the side instead of on the bread though, and this subtle tweak is clever and effective. Lets you be as saucy as you wanna be. The Turtle also does a turkey Reuben.
Kar’s Char
Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Drive, karschar.com…