The Historic Facts Behind the Beloved Beef Manhattan

You might know it as a Beef Manhattan, but for millions of Americans, particular hailing from the East Coast, New York regions, the rightful moniker is open-faced hot roast beef sandwich. Either way, this delicious dish has been enjoyed for many generations all over the country, and continues to please even the pickiest of palates. As for us Hoosiers, we certainly love our Beef Manhattans, and appreciate their name and history! But why exactly do we call this beloved dish a Beef Manhattan in Indiana?

Scroll down to learn some noteworthy facts about the history and mystery behind America’s favorite hot sandwich, including where to get one on the fly in Downtown Indy after reading this blog!

Indianapolis Beef Manhattan Special
Indianapolis Beef Manhattan Special 317-822-5070

The Beef Manhattan Sandwich

The Beef Manhattan is a roast beef and gravy dish served with white bread and mashed potatoes. In fact, it is not even necessarily a sandwich, as it is traditionally served open-faced, atop a bed of mashed potatoes, and with bread slices on the side. However, today, modern chefs and at-home cooking enthusiasts continually add their own innovative twists and renditions of this classic roast beef and gravy meal, so you can find it served all sorts of ways. Here in Indiana, you often see Beef Manhattan dishes served as sandwiches, with a side of mashed potatoes, and everything topped with brown gravy.

What’s With the Name?

Ironically, the name Beef Manhattan is considered an inaccurate one since the rest of the nation, outside of New York, call these dishes open-faced roast beef sandwiches. Even more ironic is the fact that the name, Beef Manhattan, is rumored to have originated right here in Indianapolis! That’s right; in the late 1940’s, a deli, now out of business, dubbed this hot roast beef and gravy sandwich dish a Beef Manhattan on their menu.

In fact, Naval Ordnance Plant Indianapolis (NOPI) workers are to thank for naming this deli’s hot roast beef sandwich menu item. You see, during World War II, these NOPI workers were trained on a replicated set of the Norden Bombsight in Manhattan, New York. They loved the meal so much, they brought the idea back to their favorite deli in Indianapolis, and gave it the name, Beef Manhattan! From that point on, the Beef Manhattan became a Hoosier staple.

Now to the Most Important Point…

Where to Get One in Indy Right Now!

317-822-5070

Just Call English Ivy’s to Order a Deliciously Classic Beef Manhattan Meal!

Call English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery at 317-822-5070 to order our current special of the week, Beef Manhattan! Our weekly specials menu is also showcasing a spicy Boom Boom Shrimp appetizer, a savory Chicken Marsala Pasta, our classic Prime Rib Sandwich, a sticky Chicken Teriyaki Salad, and more! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully-satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We look forward to being friends!