French dip

A French dip sandwich, also known as a beef dip, is a delectable hot sandwich featuring thinly sliced roast beef on a French roll or baguette. It's often served plain or with toppings such as Swiss cheese and onions, and it comes with a side of beef broth for dipping. Despite its name, the French dip sandwich is an American creation, with the "French" part likely referring to the type of bread rather than any French origin.

This savory sandwich is typically enjoyed with a cup of jus (beef broth) on the side, although this wasn't how it was originally served. The origin of the French dip sandwich remains a bit of a mystery, with two Los Angeles restaurants—Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet and Philippe the Original—both claiming to have invented it. Both establishments date back to 1908, but they offer different accounts of when and how the sandwich came to be.

Several stories circulate about the creation of the French dip sandwich. One tale involves a cook accidentally dropping a sandwich into meat drippings, while another suggests a chef dipped the sandwich to soften stale bread. Unfortunately, due to a lack of definitive evidence, we may never uncover the true origin of this beloved dish.

Today, you can find French dip sandwiches at a variety of places, from restaurant chains and fast food outlets to diners and upscale restaurants. Its enduring popularity and widespread appeal make it a favorite for many.