Pittsburgh Devonshire Sandwich

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My Pittsburgh Devonshire Sandwich: A Taste of Home

Being a Pittsburgh girl transplanted to Cleveland has its challenges. The accent, the Pittsburghese – it's a whole other language, apparently! I never truly understood the uniqueness of my speech until I moved. Turns out, my way of speaking, with its "gum bands" and "yinz," is a fascinating sub-dialect, one of the most studied in the United States. It's a testament to Pittsburgh's rich history, born from the melting pot of immigrants who settled there, creating a unique linguistic landscape where everyone felt welcome and understood. It’s a piece of my identity that I cherish and share with a smile, even if it causes some head-scratching among Clevelanders.

This week's Sunday Supper theme got me thinking about home. Pittsburgh has its famous Primanti Bros. sandwich, but I wanted to share a lesser-known treasure, a sandwich with its own intriguing story. It’s a taste of history, a reminder of my roots, and something so comforting it feels like a warm hug.

This is the Pittsburgh Devonshire Sandwich, a creation of Frank Blandi. Legend has it that the name came to him while he was overseeing his Lemont Restaurant atop Mount Washington. Looking out across the city, he spied Devonshire Street and, in that moment, a sandwich was born. This recipe, passed down through generations and shared from an old Pittsburgh Post Gazette clipping, is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of Pittsburgh's culinary past. The creamy sauce, the crisp bacon, the tender turkey—each bite is a story of family, tradition, and the simple joy of good food.

More than just a sandwich, it's a culinary journey back to my hometown. It represents the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter around the table, and the comforting flavors that always remind me of home. This recipe, passed down through time, isn't just about food; it's about connection—a connection to a place, a time, and a people. It's a small piece of Pittsburgh, beautifully crafted and ready to be shared.

Making this sandwich is like embarking on a mini-culinary adventure. The process itself is a joy: the gentle melting of butter, the smooth stirring of the sauce, the careful layering of ingredients. It's a chance to slow down, be mindful of the process, and relish in the anticipation of the final product.

It's more than just a meal; it's a connection to my heritage, a tangible representation of my Pittsburgh roots. Sharing this recipe is a way for me to share a piece of my heart, a piece of Pittsburgh, with you. So, gather your ingredients, and let's make some memories – one delicious bite at a time.

Beyond this one incredible sandwich, Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is bustling with flavor and history. From pierogies to the iconic Primanti Bros., every dish tells a story. And that's what makes it so special – a city with a rich culinary heritage that is just as unique and fascinating as its people.

So, whether you're a Pittsburgh native, a fellow Cleveland resident (don't worry, I'll translate the Pittsburghese!), or simply someone with an adventurous palate, I hope this recipe brings a touch of Pittsburgh sunshine to your kitchen. More importantly, I hope it inspires you to explore the rich stories hidden within the food of your own hometown.