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The sandwich wrap is a staple served in restaurants across the United States. It is known as a healthier alternative to traditional bread slices or buns, and this lunchtime favorite is loved by diners of all preferences. While the wrap may seem ubiquitous now, you couldn’t always find it on continental menus. In fact, it’s reported to have first appeared in the 1980s, thanks to Bobby Valentine, a former pro baseball player. Below, learn why the wrap will be forever ingrained into baseball history.

Why Is the Wrap Tied to Baseball History?

restaurantBobby Valentine, known by fans as “Bobby V,” played professional baseball for the L.A. Dodgers, California Angels, New York Mets, and Seattle Mariners. He also served as a manager for the Texas Ranges, Mets, and Boston Red Sox. In addition to his skills in the field, he’s also known for his culinary prowess. Valentine, a restaurateur, is credited for having served the first wrap at his Stamford, CT, restaurant in 1982.

What Was the First Wrap Ever to Be Served?

From his position in the kitchen, Valentine was dismayed to learn that his eatery’s toaster had broken when the banker who loaned him money for the restaurant stopped in for a bite. The banker always ordered the turkey club sandwich, which was served on toast. Without a way to warm the bread, Valentine came up with a quick solution.

He spotted a pile of tortillas and decided to compile all of the club sandwich ingredients into it. Using melted cheese to hold it together, he wrapped everything up. The new club sandwich wrap became a favorite not only to the banker, but many other diners, and the club sandwich wrap became a menu staple. While Valentine admits that he may not have been the first to serve food in a handheld tortilla, he does believe he may have been the mind behind putting traditional American ingredients into a wrap.

 

If you’re in the mood for a delicious wrap, head to Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar in Valley Stream, NY. In addition to this convenient location, the restaurant can be found in 19 other spots across New York and Connecticut. With feel-good favorites like wings, wraps, burgers, and a wide variety of beers on tap, these eateries are the perfect places to grab a delicious meal while catching a game. Browse through this location’s menu online or (516) 561-9453 to speak with a team member today.

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