Harry's Bar Famous "Grilled Ham & Cheese Sandwich" | Friday Night Bites

Who doesn’t want to be transported to Venice Italy for an evening?  I can’t imagine someone turning down such a special invitation – certainly not me.  If you have ever traveled to Venice, then you probably have stepped into the famous Harry’s Bar.  This is the home of the world famous Bellini cocktail which derived its name from the unique pink color, which reminded the owner of the color of the toga of a saint in the painting by 15^th century Venetian artist Giovanni Bellini.  It is simply pureed white peaches and Prosecco.

Harry’s Bar is steeped in history with its roots beginning in 1931 by the bartender Guiseppe Cipriani.  History dictates that Harry Pickering, a wealthy young man from Boston frequented the Hotel Europe where Cipriani was bartending.  Harry exclaimed one day that his family cut off his funds due to his excessive drinking, Cipriani loaned him 10,000 lire (about $5,000 dollars).  Approximately two years later, Harry returned and gave Cipriani 50,000 lire in return.  Cipriani was very thankful and appreciative.  Harry said – “Here’s the money.  And to show you my appreciation, here’s 40,000 more, enough to open a bar.  We will call it Harry’s Bar.”

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Despite not physically visiting Harry’s Bar in Venice YET, I am fixated with all things Harry’s Bar.  It is on my bucket list along with several other Italian destinations.  Hoping this list item gets checked off soon.  Smile. Several years ago, I mean, several years ago, I purchased the cookbook.  One of my absolute favorite things to make is the Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich.  It is a perfect nibble to enjoy with a fresh Bellini cocktail.  This is not the grilled ham and cheese sandwich you grew up eating – it has a gourmet flair and spin. 

Hubby and I jetted off to Venice, figuratively last weekend when we enjoyed a chilled fresh Bellini Cocktail along with several of these addictive little sandwiches.  We sat outside where we enjoyed the summer evening warmth and gentle breeze along with the soothing sounds of the fountain in the background.  It was a perfect evening.

Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Makes approximately 48 Sandwiches

1 ½ pound Gruyere cheese, grated

¼ C. Grated parmesan cheese

2 Egg yolks

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

2 t. Dijon mustard

2 to 4 dashes of Tabasco sauce

2 to 4 T. Half and half

24 Slices of white bread

12 Slices of Black Forest Ham

Olive oil

In a food processor, add the cheese, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon and cayenne. Pulse until combined. Add one tablespoon at a time of the half and half until you have a smooth and creamy consistency.

Lay out two slices of bread and spread the cheese mixture over each slice and add a slice of the ham on one side. Put the two pieces together and cut off the crusts. Brush olive oil on each side of the sandwich. Cut in half and then each piece in half again, lengthwise. Repeat the process until you have enough sandwiches.

Use a stovetop griddle to cook the sandwiches over medium heat until each side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.