Couple TV shows some may enjoy

Yes. Haven't seen one on a menu for over 40 years. May be too fancy for a diner and too mundane for an upscale Euro restaurant. Forgot about finding it 20+ years ago at Disneyland's Blue Bayou Restaurant. That would have been my last one consumed. Should be plenty of them available at the Steelers game this Fall along with a glass of vintage Chateau Lafite or Pouilly Fuisse (or Fussy Pussy per Cheech Marin).

Key Origins and History

• French Roots: It is widely considered a decadent, Americanized adaptation of the French croque monsieur (ham and Gruyere).
• First Appearance: While commonly linked to the 1960s, some references suggest it was served as early as the 1910s or 1920s in Paris cafes, or early 1940s in the US.
• California Popularity: The sandwich gained fame in Southern California during the 1950s and 1960s, often appearing on menus as "French Sandwich" or "Toasted Ham Sandwich" before adopting the "Monte Cristo" title, likely referencing the novel The Count of Monte Cristo.
• Disneyland Factor: The sandwich became an iconic dish after being featured at the Blue Bayou restaurant in Disneyland.
• Key Differences: Unlike the croque monsieur, the Monte Cristo is typically dipped in egg batter and deep-fried, sometimes featuring turkey in addition to ham and Swiss cheese