Thu Jul 24 17:00:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Culinary Titans Unite Against the “Useless” Middle Slice of Bread in Club Sandwiches**
**[City, State] –** Renowned culinary figures Anthony Bourdain and James Beard have posthumously reignited the debate surrounding the classic club sandwich, specifically targeting its often-maligned middle slice of bread.
Bourdain, in his 2016 cookbook “Appetites,” famously compared the club sandwich’s superfluous carb content to the terrorist network Al Qaeda, expressing his frustration with the “useless middle slice of bread.” He questioned its purpose, deeming it unnecessary and easily dispensable.
Echoing Bourdain’s sentiments, the late James Beard, in his 1972 book “James Beard’s American Cookery,” denounced the modern three-decker version of the club sandwich as a “bastardization” of the original, more manageable design. He even wished a lifetime of three-decker sandwiches upon whoever added the extra layer.
Both chefs suggest ditching the extra slice of bread. After removing the “useless” slice of bread you should feel empowered to build your club with chicken or turkey, or even use both at the same time. You can likewise make those clubs as hot or cold as you wish. Just make sure to pin them together with those festive, frilly toothpicks.
First Piper 