Bennigan’s Turkey O’Toole

Do you ever get that intense craving for something you can't have anymore? For me, it's the legendary Bennigan's Turkey O'Toole sandwich. Oh, how I miss those days! I know so many of you out there remember Bennigan's Restaurant and that iconic sandwich, right? It was just the best – the perfect combination of savory turkey, gooey cheese, and that distinct pretzel bread. Since Bennigan's isn't around anymore, I took it upon myself to bring that deliciousness back to life in my own kitchen, and let me tell you, it's spot on! Recreating a beloved classic like the Turkey O'Toole means getting the key elements just right. First up, the turkey itself. You need good quality smoked or shaved deli turkey. Don't skimp here; the smoky flavor is essential. I usually grab about a pound for a few generous sandwiches. Next, the cheese – Swiss cheese is non-negotiable. Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor melts beautifully and complements the turkey perfectly. And then, the star of the show (besides the turkey, of course!): the pretzel bagels. These add that unique chewiness and a hint of salt that makes the O'Toole so special. If you can't find pretzel bagels, a good quality pretzel bun or even a sturdy ciabatta can work in a pinch, but the bagel really takes it up a notch. Here’s how I bring this nostalgic delight to life: I start by heating a little oil in a pan. Once it's shimmering, I add the smoked deli turkey and just heat it through, flipping it around until it's nice and warm. Then, I divide the turkey into three piles right in the pan. On top of each pile, I place two slices of Swiss cheese. A lid goes on to let that cheese get perfectly melty and ooey-gooey. While the cheese is doing its thing, I brush my pretzel bagels with a little olive oil and give them a quick toast in the oven until they're warm and slightly crisp. The final touch? A generous spread of honey mustard on both halves of the toasted bagel. This sweet and tangy sauce brings everything together beautifully. Then, it's just a matter of piling that warm, cheesy turkey onto the pretzel bagel, and voilà – pure delight! This sandwich is more than just food; it's a memory on a plate. It's so satisfying to recreate a dish that holds so many good feelings. I often serve mine with a side of crispy potato chips, just like I remember from Bennigan's. You could also pair it with a simple tomato soup for an extra comforting meal. Don't be afraid to experiment a little too! Sometimes, I add a thin slice of tomato or a crisp lettuce leaf for a bit of freshness, or even a couple of strips of cooked bacon for an extra layer of flavor. It's your sandwich, after all! If you've been missing that incredible Bennigan's Turkey O'Toole, I truly hope you give this recreation a try. It’s a simple pleasure that brings back so much joy. Let me know if you remember Bennigan's too, and what your favorite dish was!