The Gatsby is an iconic sandwich, synonymous with South African street food culture, particularly in Cape Town, where its origins first took root. Today, it’s a staple fast food and craved across South Africa.
In the 1970s, Rashaad Pandy, owner of Super Fisheries in Athlone, Cape Town, accidentally created the Gatsby.
As the story goes, Mr. Pandy created the iconic sandwich to feed hungry workers. His on-the-spot combo of a Portuguese roll with slap chips, polony, and atchar was a big hit and gave birth to the now-coveted ‘Gatsby’.
Served on a long, soft Portuguese roll, a Gatsby is typically stuffed with meats like polony, viennas, or masala steak, and a generous serving of slap chips. To finish, it’s topped with a mix of sauces like spicy chilli, peri-peri, atchar and tomato sauce.
Home to arguably the best sub in SA, Cape Town, there is no shortage of great spots to grab a classic Gatsby. However, its popularity has started creeping across SA, taking over many fast-food joints.
The best places to grab a Gatsby in SA
Cape Town
Aneesa’s
Aneesa’s, a well-known takeaway spot with four different locations scattered across the Mother City, is known for its Gatsby. You can’t go wrong with their classic polony and vienna Gatsby, with or without salad. It’s packed with chips and your choice of sauces.
Mariam’s Kitchen
Another popular spot around the Cape, with more than one location in the Mother City. Cape Town ETC recommends trying Mariam’s Boerewors, Curry or Steak Gatsby. But be warned, a nap will be required after this one.
Cosy Corner
One of Cape Town’s first Halaal eateries, try one of their Full House, Masala or Chargrilled Rump Steak Gatsbys. You won’t be disappointed.
Golden Dish
Another classic Cape Town spot that delivers classic Gatsby’s jam-packed with flavour. Try the Russian or Burger Patty Gatsby and pop a squat in your car to devour the sandwich; home can wait.
Johannesburg
Industry Bakery
Based in Sunninghill, Industry Bakery gives you value for money with a choice of a full or half-sized Gatsby. Their Masala Steak Gatsby has even received Capetonians’ blessings!
Akhalz
Arrive hungry at the original Akhalz, which has its first location in Mayfair, and others are scattered throughout Joburg. Their AK-47 Gatsby comes highly recommended, along with other interesting items on their menu like their ‘wonder why pizza’.
Smylies Fast Food Diner
This roadside/diner-style restaurant is one of the top spots in Joburg to grab a Gatsby. Though their full-sized sandwiches may seem a little steep, you’re getting enough to feed a family, and then some.
Also See: The golden rule of office lunch etiquette
Feature image credit: X / Long Street Hotel
This article was originally published on Getaway.
