Fact Finder - Food and Drink

Fact
The Mystery of the Caesar Salad
Category
Food and Drink
Subcategory
Global Cuisine
Country
Mexico
Description
Contrary to popular belief, the Caesar Salad has nothing to do with Julius Caesar. It was invented in 1924 by Caesar Cardini, an Italian immigrant who operated a restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico. According to his daughter, Rosa, the restaurant was overwhelmed by American customers escaping Prohibition on the Fourth of July. Running low on supplies, Cardini threw together what he had: Romaine lettuce, garlic, croutons, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, eggs, and Worcestershire sauce. He prepared the salad tableside with great flair to entertain the guests. Interestingly, the original recipe did not contain anchovies; the slight fishy flavor came solely from the Worcestershire sauce. Cardini’s restaurant, 'Caesar's,' still serves the original recipe today in Tijuana.