Sloppy Joe on sesame seed bun

How Is The New Jersey-Style Sloppy Joe Different From Others?

NEWS

BY JOLEE SULLIVAN

Sloppy Joe on plate
The New Jersey version of the famous cafeteria-style Sloppy Joe is a unique, layered deli treat that is more akin to a Reuben sandwich than the sloppy, ground beef-filled version.
Plated New Jersey Sloppy Joe
It's constructed with layers of thinly sliced deli meats, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing,
all stacked between three sturdy slices of rye bread with no crust.
Circle of New Jersey Sloppy Joes with pickles
Legend has it the New Jersey sloppy Joe came to life when a customer at a New Jersey tavern requested a sandwich like the one he'd had at Sloppy Joe's in Havana.
Metal tray with New Jersey Sloppy Joes
Today, this style — known for its balance of tangy dressing, crunchy coleslaw, and melt-in-your-mouth deli meat — is iconic in New Jersey delis.