NEW JERSEY - A few years ago, South Jersey's culinary scene welcomed a unique and innovative concept: Elsie's Pickles, home of the low-carb pickle sandwich. Founded by Katherine Cohen and her husband, Chad Jordan, Elsie's quickly became a social media sensation, capturing the hearts and taste buds of those seeking a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional bread-based sandwiches.
The eatery rebranded as Peace Love Pickles in a bid for nationwide recognition, opened its doors in Haddon Township, NJ, in 2019. Their signature pickle sandwich, made with a hollowed-out pickle as a bun, quickly became a local favorite, attracting both health-conscious eaters and curious foodies.
While Elsie's (and later Peace Love Pickles) didn't invent the pickle sandwich, they certainly significantly popularized it throughout South Jersey. Their creative use of a family recipe and focus on low-carb, keto-friendly options resonated with a wide audience, transforming the humble pickle into a culinary star.
Sadly, despite its initial success and devoted following, Peace Love Pickles closed its doors in 2023. While the reasons behind the closure remain unclear, the legacy of Elsie's Pickles and its contribution to the South Jersey food scene will not be forgotten. Their innovative pickle sandwich introduced a new wave of culinary creativity to the region and inspired countless imitations.
Though you can no longer enjoy a Peace Love Pickles sandwich, its spirit lives on in the countless variations that have emerged in its wake. As a testament to its impact, a simple search for "pickle sandwich" will reveal a plethora of recipes and restaurants offering their own unique twists on this low-carb delight.
The story of Elsie's Pickles, or Peace Love Pickles, is a reminder that even the most innovative and beloved culinary concepts can have a finite lifespan. However, their legacy inspires and influences the ever-evolving food scene, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected ingredients can lead to the most delicious creations.
Source: PhillyBite Magazine
