What Goes With Reuben Sandwich

I still remember the first time I ordered a Reuben sandwich. I was at a greasy spoon in Brooklyn, nursing a hangover, and the waitress just slid this monstrous, steaming pile of corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss across the counter. One bite, and I felt my soul recalibrate. But as I finished, I stared at the empty plate and had one burning question: what do you possibly eat with this glorious beast?

Let’s be real—you don’t just order a Reuben and call it a meal. It’s an event. It demands a supporting cast. You need sides and drinks that can handle its salty, tangy, and creamy personality without getting bossed around. So, grab a napkin, because we’re about to solve this culinary riddle together.

The Obvious Star: Pickles and Chips

Here’s the classic move, and it works every time. A half-sour dill pickle spear—not too sour, not too sweet—cuts through the Reuben’s richness like a tiny, crunchy hero. It’s the palate cleanser you never knew you needed. You can thank me later when your taste buds don’t feel punched out.

Then there’s the kettle-cooked potato chips, salty and loud. They add a texture contrast that makes the sandwich’s soft rye bread and gooey cheese sing. Pro tip: avoid the flavored chips here—you don’t want barbecue tang fighting with your Thousand Island dressing.

The Soup Companion (Yes, It’s a Combo)

Have you ever tried a Reuben with a bowl of matzo ball soup? I know, it sounds like a New York fever dream, but trust me—the light, fluffy broth with a dumpling is a genius pairing. It’s like the soup gives your stomach a spa day after the sandwich’s meaty workout. Or go simpler: a cup of tomato soup for a creamy, acidic bridge between bites.

But here’s the ironic twist: do not order a French onion soup. That’s just cheese overload. Your arteries will send you a passive-aggressive email. You’ve been warned.

reuben sandwich

Drinks That Don’t Get Bullied

Let’s talk beverages, because a Reuben is a thirsty sandwich. My go-to? A crisp, cold beer—something like a pilsner or a light lager. The bubbles scrub your palate clean, and the mild bitterness dances with the corned beef without being rude. (If you drink a stout, you’re just asking for a nap coma.)

Not a beer person? Grab an iced tea—unsweetened, with a lemon wedge. The tannins cut through the fat, and the tartness of the lemon neutralizes the sauerkraut’s funky vibe. Skip the soda, okay? Those syrupy cherry colas will fight every single flavor on your plate. Your Reuben is not a wrestling opponent.

The Salad That Actually Belongs

I know, salads sound like a betrayal when you’re handling a sandwich this decadent. But hear me out: a German-style coleslaw—the vinegary, not mayo-based kind. It’s tangy, crunchy, and light enough to reset your taste buds between heavy bites. It’s basically the sandwich’s cousin from out of town, but the cool one.

Or try a simple cucumber salad with dill and red onion. The crunch and acidity slice through the cheese like a tiny, edible sword. Avoid anything with creamy dressings; you’re already swimming in Swiss and dressing from the sandwich.

Reuben Sandwich

The “Hold Up, I’m Feeling Fancy” Option

Sometimes you want to elevate your Reuben experience without a whole parade of sides. Enter pickled beets. Their earthiness and sweet-tart zing are weirdly addictive next to corned beef. (Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it—your Instagram will look like art.) Or go for a side of roasted Brussels sprouts with a little balsamic glaze. The bitterness of the sprouts and the tangy glaze are a power couple.

The Dessert Question (Yes, You Need It)

After a Reuben, your palate is a battlefield of salt, sour, and umami. So what do you throw at it? A slice of apple pie—the cinnamon and sugar are like a peace treaty for your tongue. Or a small black-and-white cookie for that soft, mild sweetness. Do not order cheesecake. You will form a cheese coalition that cancels each other out.

Look, the Reuben is the boss, but you’re the one in charge of its court. Whether you go nostalgic with chips and pickle or fancy with beets and sprouts, just remember: the best side is the one that makes you smile. Even if that means eating the sandwich alone with a glass of water and a napkin. No judgment here—I’ve been that person.

So next time you’re staring at that melty masterpiece, take a breath. Consider the pickle, the pilsner, or even the silly salad. Because a Reuben is a journey, and every great journey needs a few unexpected, delicious companions. Now go eat, you glorious carnivore.