The Sandwich That Rocked the King’s World
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, had a larger-than-life persona, known for his powerful vocals, iconic hip moves—and an unexpected obsession: a decadent sandwich featuring peanut butter, bananas, and bacon.
Known as the “Fool’s Gold Loaf,” this sandwich became a part of his legend almost as much as his music.
Origins and Ingredients
The Fool’s Gold Loaf isn’t your average deli item. It was born at a restaurant called the Colorado Mine Company in Denver, Colorado.
The sandwich consists of:
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A large loaf of white bread, hollowed out
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Creamy peanut butter
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Mashed or sliced bananas
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Crispy bacon – up to a full pound (about 450 grams)
The whole thing is slathered with butter and baked until golden and crunchy on the outside.
Elvis and His Iconic Food Obsession
One of the most legendary food stories about Elvis occurred in 1976. Late one night in Memphis, Elvis suddenly craved the Fool’s Gold Loaf he once had in Denver. Instead of settling for a substitute, he chartered his private jet and flew over 1,000 miles with his friends just to eat the sandwich at the original restaurant.
The entire journey lasted just a few hours, but it became an iconic tale of Elvis’s extravagant lifestyle and unwavering cravings.
Why This Sandwich?
What made a seemingly simple sandwich so irresistible to Elvis?
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Nostalgia: It possibly reminded him of simpler times before fame.
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Flavor combination: The sweet banana, rich peanut butter, and salty, crispy bacon offer a surprisingly satisfying experience.
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Signature Excess: Like everything Elvis did, his food choices were bold and indulgent.
Controversy and Calories
Each Fool’s Gold Loaf packs a staggering 8,000 calories. Nutritionists today might cringe at the combination, but for Elvis, it was less about health and more about happiness.
Final Thoughts
The Fool’s Gold Loaf isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a cultural artifact. A symbol of indulgence, rock stardom, and the deeply personal quirks of an unforgettable icon. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll be tempted to try recreating it for yourself.