The Surprising History of the Thanksgiving Gobbler Sandwich
A Philadelphia Magazine column argues that the iconic Thanksgiving-leftover sandwich known as the Gobbler originated long before modern convenience chains adopted it, evolving through a century of culinary experiments.
The history of putting leftover turkey between bread stretches back for generations. Philadelphia Magazine reported that family recipes varied widely, from Pennsylvania Dutch stuffing patties fried in butter to oniony beef stuffing served on a roll with ketchup.
Early references to constructed Thanksgiving sandwiches appeared in books and journals at the start of the 20th century. A 1915 journal article published by the Modern Confectioner Publishing Company suggested a turkey, cranberry sauce, and mayonnaise sandwich to boost candy store revenues, while the USDA published a recipe containing turkey, stuffing, and gravy in 1950.
Other variations missed the mark entirely over the decades. A Brooklyn Eagle report from November 25, 1949, detailed a French chef’s creation featuring sliced turkey and American cheese between egg-dipped, pan-fried white bread. A 1961 food show entry in Chicago introduced a “Glazed Gobbler” featuring luncheon turkey, cranberry gelatin, avocado, and American cheese.
The specific moniker “Gobbler” first emerged in print on March 21, 1992, in the Orlando Sentinel, describing a Thanksgiving dinner sandwich served at the now-shuttered Darryl’s Restaurant and Bar in Kissimmee, Florida. Months later, Kraft launched a national newspaper campaign promoting Stove Top stuffing with a matching sandwich recipe also called the Gobbler.
Wawa introduced its seasonal Gobbler as a pilot in 2008. The item returned in 2009 for $2.99 due to high consumer demand.
“We underestimated how many people would want it,” Lori Bruce told NBC 10.
Philly Mag restaurant critic Jason Sheehan reviewed the item in 2018.
“No, there isn’t. It is comfort on a roll. A portable Thanksgiving dinner. Warm and sloppy and cheap and delicious all at the same time,” Sheehan wrote.