'Murica's Birthday Week

Thank you, Courtney S., Los Angeles, CA for your review of the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest held every year on July 4th in Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY. 

While my preferred 4th of July plans (if I choose to do anything at all) involve staying home, waving an American flag, and dressing like Little Edie of Grey Gardens ...

…to each their own. 

You say there’s nothing more American than watching other Americans overeat. I see that and raise you, nothing more American than watching other Americans overeat… and then, themselves, wanting to eat. Hence, the long line you described after the competition. I’d probably have to vomit on their behalf, but again… to each their own. 

The important part is that the vibe was infectiously exciting. Hearing that makes me happy. This is one of my favorite places in New York, and I want others to appreciate it as well.

So, on the birthday of a country that’s pretty difficult to be proud of these days, I suppose we should be grateful we can at least highlight our incredible ability to rapidly guzzle nitrate-filled meat sticks, next to the ocean, with a crowd of people cheering us on... just like the Founding Fathers intended.

Five out of five stars. 

See you next Tuesday.