Stop searching! This Reuben Sandwich is Amsterdam’s new best sandwich
Every once in a while, you come across one. A sandwich so addictively delicious that you go back for it every week on your day off. Think of the ham sandwich at Lindenmarkt; the banh mi sandwich at Paaseiland; or the place for your favorite meatball sandwich. There’s a new sandwich at the top of my list: the Reuben Sandwich from Taverno Willi Becher.
The Reuben Sandwich is world-famous in America, but rarely seen in the Netherlands. We were already wondering in 2019 when this American classic would finally show up in the Netherlands. It has arrived, and in delicious fashion: at the recently opened Taverno Willi Becher in Amsterdam-Noord.
Up your sleeve
Here’s how they serve it: pita bread, a thick layer of pastrami, Gruyère cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing. Pickles, peppers and a handful of crunchy chips on the side. As soon as you sink your teeth into this divine sandwich, all the flavors come together. The sharpness of the horseradish in the Russian dressing, the saltiness of the pastrami and the sour pickles. Before you know it, something is dripping down your sleeve… You’re not sure whether it’s the Gruyère cheese overflowing from your sandwich or the juice from the sauerkraut, but you don’t care at all; you can lick your wrist clean later.
Where was that again?
In Amsterdam-Noord, at Taverno Willi Becher. This new establishment is a combination of a German beer hall and a Mediterranean tavern. The restaurant opened its doors in September, right between the two hospitality lockdowns, and was therefore only able to operate with guests in the restaurant for one month. But every cloud has a silver lining; the lockdown forced them to improvise, and they came up with this ultimate sandwich. There isn’t much opportunity to taste it; they’re only open for sandwich take-away on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. But believe me, this Reuben Sandwich is more than worth the detour! And order a mulled wine with it while you’re at it—a delicious combination!
Can’t wait until Saturday? Check out this recipe!
Taverno Willi Becher, Papaverhoek 31, Amsterdam
Also read:
- Make this special grilled cheese with Gruyère and red wine
- Tips for the ultimate grilled cheese
- Why are grilled cheese sandwiches always cut diagonally?
Image: Jurre Rompa
