Back in 1980 my friend Andy was going to school at Oneonta. One fall weekend I drove upstate to visit him. During the weekend we went to a restaurant called The Depot, which was built in an old railroad station. I ordered a ham and cheese sandwich and to this day it was one of the best sandwiches I ever had. It was served warmed and wrapped in foil. The cheese was all melty and the heating brought out the juices in the ham. The restaurant is still in Oneonta and if you are ever up that way make sure you stop in.
The Depot Restaurant & Tavern, Oneonta NY
It is still my favorite way to eat a ham and cheese sandwich and its very easy to do at home. First pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees. Use a crusty roll such as a kaiser roll, ciabatta, dutch crunch or mini french bread. Slice the roll in half and apply mustard to the bottom half. I prefer a spicy brown mustard such as Gulden's. Apply one or two slices of cheese to cover the bread. Fresh deli sliced American or a nice Sharp Cheddar is best. Generously layer ham on top of the cheese. If you have access to a good German or Irish delicatessen that bakes fresh Virginia Ham I recommend that. Here in San Francisco I settle for Boar's Head brand Virginia Ham. You can also used smoked, black forest, honey baked or regular deli sliced ham. Apply another slice or two of cheese and more mustard to the top of the bread. Feel free to add other condiments such as onion, pickles, etc., but be careful of things that might wilt in the oven.
Wrap the sandwich in a layer of foil and place in the pre-heated oven. Heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Slice and serve with a side of kosher dill pickle, chips and the cold beverage of your choice. Try it with Roast beef and cheese or smoked turkey. Delicious.
