When you sit down at one of your favorite diners like The English Muffin, there are certain menu staples you just expect to see. A hot cup of coffee, crispy bacon, maybe a stack of pancakes, and right there among them, a cool, crisp Caesar salad. But despite the name, Caesar salad isn’t Roman, and it didn’t come from an ancient emperor’s kitchen. The real story is a little more recent and a lot more flavorful. Join us this month as one of your favorite diners dives in to uncover this dish’s history!
The Surprising Origins of Caesar Salad
The Caesar salad was not born in Italy but in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s. Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini created the dish on a busy Fourth of July weekend in 1924. Legend has it that his restaurant was running low on supplies, so he improvised using what he had on hand: romaine lettuce, raw egg, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and crunchy croutons. The result? A simple, bold, and unexpectedly delicious salad that quickly became a hit.
Cardini’s original version didn’t even have anchovies, though anchovy paste and Worcestershire sauce are standard in modern recipes for that extra umami kick.
From Fine Dining to Diner Menus
What started as a kitchen improvisation soon spread across North America. By the mid-20th century, Caesar salad had become a staple in restaurants, cafés, and, of course, diners. Its appeal was clear: it’s light but filling, simple but flavorful, and easy to pair with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
At diners like The English Muffin, Caesar salad is a go-to choice for guests who want something fresh, satisfying, and timeless. It’s no surprise that this classic continues to stand strong on menus surrounded by hearty breakfasts and sandwiches.
Still a Favorite Nearly 100 Years Later
Part of what makes Caesar salad so enduring is its balance. Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, sharp cheese, and optional juicy grilled chicken or protein of your choice— it’s the perfect bite every time. And whether you’re ordering it for lunch, dinner, or a midday recharge, you know exactly what you’re going to get: comfort in a bowl.
The English Muffin | Hampstead Diners
So even though Caesar Salad Day has passed, the celebration doesn’t have to. Stop by The English Muffin and enjoy a fresh take on a timeless classic! Not craving a salad? We have you covered with plenty of other delicious options. Check out our online menu to discover the possibilities!
