In the vibrant heart of Brooklyn, an unusual culinary spectacle unfolded on a sunny Sunday afternoon: the second annual rotisserie chicken-eating contest, an event that drew nearly two dozen brave competitors and a throng of enthusiastic spectators. Organized by the popular TikTok account Old Jewish Men of New York, the competition took place outside Roma Pizza on Seventh Avenue, turning the sidewalk into a lively arena of gastronomic feats.
Noah Rinsky, the 36-year-old mastermind behind the event and the lifestyle brand, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of this quirky gathering. “It’s the meat of the people, it’s great because you can get it for $5,” he remarked, underscoring the affordability and accessibility of rotisserie chicken. Priced at just $4.99 at Costco, these birds have become a staple for families, often serving as an easy meal solution. Rinsky’s enthusiasm for the event stems from a burgeoning “rotisserie chicken fandom,” where social media plays a pivotal role in celebrating this beloved dish. “We’ve been making all these videos online, and people love rotisseries,” he explained, noting how the contest was a natural evolution from their viral content.
The contest not only entertained but also showcased community spirit and local businesses. With sponsorships from brands like Quellix, a popular antacid, and nearby Petco, the event’s reach extended beyond mere eating challenges. Despite the hiccup of not securing approval for chicken-eating bets from the SEC, the atmosphere remained electric, further enhanced by the presence of David Roffe, a local actor and micro-celebrity, who even sported a T-shirt featuring Costco’s barcode. Roffe had recently launched a YouTube series titled the Chicken Show, which features interviews with notable New Yorkers, including local politicians and social media personalities.
As the competition heated up, 35-year-old Robert McGee from Far Rockaway emerged victorious after a grueling six minutes and 44 seconds of intense eating. His prize—a golden chicken trophy, $500, and a steaming cheese pizza from Roma—was a testament to his commitment, having prepared for the event with a week-long regimen of chicken wings. “I think I’ll put it into my savings,” McGee quipped, reflecting on the prize money, though he wasted no time indulging in the pizza.
While McGee fell short of last year’s record of a sub-five-minute finish, he attributed his performance to the “intense” white meat this year, a sentiment echoed by Rinsky, who noted that all the chickens were supposed to be of standard quality. This playful rivalry among contestants and the light-hearted banter among onlookers contributed to a festive atmosphere that engaged the entire community.
Phil Castellano, owner of Roma Pizza and a local business stalwart for over 42 years, highlighted the event’s dual purpose: fun and local economic support. “It’s not just about the eating; it’s about bringing people together and boosting the businesses on the block,” he stated, emphasizing the positive impact of such quirky events on community cohesion and local economies.
In a world often dominated by serious news and challenges, the rotisserie chicken-eating contest serves as a reminder of the joy that can be found in shared experiences. Events like this not only foster community bonds but also celebrate the simple pleasures of food, laughter, and friendly competition. As spectators cheered and contestants devoured their birds, the essence of Brooklyn’s spirited culture shone brightly, proving that sometimes, a good old-fashioned eating contest can bring people together in the most delightful ways.
