Experiencing a place includes exploring its local flavors and distinctive dishes. Courier asked destinations about their specialties. To see more check out “8 dishes worth the trip.”
The Springfield Horseshoe Sandwich was created at the Old Leland Hotel in 1928 by Joe Schweska and Steve Tomko. The name was derived from the horseshoe-shaped cut of ham used in the original. French fries represent the nails of the shoe, and the sizzle platter represents a hot anvil.
The 1939 Christmas edition of the State Journal Register revealed Chef Schweska’s recipe. The sandwich is made by laying two pieces of toast on a preheated platter, then placing the meat on the toast, covering the entire sandwich with cheese sauce, and circling the platter with French fries. A dash of paprika adds color to the Horseshoe.
Variations of the sandwich are as open as a hungry imagination—or as the imaginations of the chefs at local eateries. Most options include substituting ham with another meat: chicken (a grilled, fried, or Buffalo-style breast), hamburger, walleye, tenderloin, or Reuben. And diners with a smaller appetite can order a Pony Shoe.
Where to try it: Most Springfield restaurants offer a traditional Shoe and a house specialty or two, including Charlie Parker’s famous Breakfast Shoe. D’Arcy’s Pint was featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.”
Who to contact: Terry Truman, Springfield CVB
Top photo by Springfield CVB
Support for Courier articles provided by:
Amelia Island Tourism Development Council
Brandywine Valley
Campbell County Convention & Visitors Bureau
City of Gallup
Maryland Office of Tourism Development
Oneida County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau
Tourist Office for Flanders-Belgium
