Meryl Streep’s Favorite Sandwich Is a Diner Classic

Meryl Streep is one of America’s most beloved actresses, but she’s also famously quite private. So while we love to watch her light up the big screen (biased take: Julie & Julia is our favorite), we just don’t know much about Meryl, the woman.

But if there’s any late-night host that can get the 411 from Streep, it’s Stephen Colbert. In his famous “The Colbert Questionert” segment, Colbert asks guests a series of questions that range from “What animal are you scared of?” to “Describe the rest of your life in five words.” But the same question kicks off the segment every time—”What’s the best sandwich?”

Streep’s answer made total sense—it’s an East Coast classic we could find at just about any diner. It’s simple, but packs a punch. It’s easy to gussy up with some fun add-ins, but just as delicious unadorned. And now that we know this is Streep’s fave, we feel like we know her just a little bit better.

Meryl Streep Says This Is the Best Sandwich

When Colbert asked the seminal question, “What is the best sandwich?” Streep had an immediate answer: “Pastrami.” When Colbert nudged for more details, she added “on rye.”

Yes, one of New York’s most famous sandwiches, pastrami on rye, is the superstar’s go-to. Growing up in New Jersey and then moving to New York City at a young age, Streep has likely enjoyed this delicious meal dozens of times over the years.

One of the best things about pastrami on rye is just how customizable it is. It’s great plain, or with some Swiss cheese. It’s also the foundation of a Reuben sandwich, one of the country’s most beloved classics. Just add Thousand Island dressing, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and give it a good grill.

We’d like to think that Meryl Streep is still channeling her inner Julia Child all these years after portraying the culinary icon. And now that we know pastrami on rye is her favorite sandwich, we can only imagine all the other delicious diner-inspired dishes she enjoys!