Introduction
Toby Keith’s Favorite Sandwich Lives On as a Tasty Tribute to His Legacy
When country legend Toby Keith passed away in 2024, fans mourned the loss of a true American icon. Known for unforgettable hits like Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue, Red Solo Cup, and Beer for My Horses, Keith’s music celebrated patriotism, everyday life, and the heart of the working man. But beyond the stage, Toby was also a businessman, family man, and lover of simple pleasures—one of which was his all-time favorite food: the humble fried bologna sandwich.
At the peak of his success, Keith launched Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, a restaurant chain inspired by his hit song “I Love This Bar.” At one point, there were a dozen locations across the U.S., serving Southern-style comfort food and celebrating Keith’s larger-than-life personality. Today, only two locations remain in his home state of Oklahoma—but they continue to serve up Toby’s favorite menu item: the fried bologna sandwich.
Unlike trendy or upscale dishes, Keith’s go-to meal was honest and unpretentious. In a 2010 interview with Discover Oklahoma, he laughed as he admitted that a gourmet chef might turn up their nose at it—but to him, it was perfect. “You cut that bologna about half an inch thick, throw it on the grill, and serve it with mayo, mustard, or barbecue sauce,” he once said. Sometimes he added lettuce, tomato, and a mix of cheddar and jack cheese.
It wasn’t just a nostalgic meal—it was a bestseller. Customers from all walks of life ordered it as a way to connect with Toby’s spirit. Even now, fans stop by the remaining restaurants to enjoy the sandwich, raising a bite in his memory. For many, it’s more than food—it’s a tribute to a man who never forgot where he came from.