A Rare Case of Raw Emotions: A Restaurant Owner’s Lawsuit Against Texas Governor’s "Texas Strip" Proposal
The Controversy
Todd Shapiro, the owner of the War Room Tavern in Albany, was grilling a New York strip steak when he received some shocking news – Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick wants to rename the cut to the "Texas Strip". According to Patrick, this move will promote the Texas brand and benefit the state’s economy, citing 12.2 million head of cattle in the "cattle capital" of the US.
A Strong Reaction
Shapiro was taken aback by the news and nearly dropped the steak. "When I heard that – I almost dropped the steak," he said. He believes that the move will undermine New York’s culinary heritage and hurt businesses like his.
A Lawsuit Against Texas
In response, Shapiro announced a one million dollar lawsuit against the State of Texas, arguing that the proposal is a threat to his business and the legacy of New York’s culinary tradition. "We have two steaks on the menu: New York strip and filet mignon. No one’s gonna order a ‘Texas steak’ in New York’s capital," he said.
The War Room Tavern’s Legacy
The War Room Tavern is known for its political-themed dining experience, featuring a 2,000-pound Bull Moose shoulder mount honoring Theodore Roosevelt and a menu with items like Gov. Al Smith’s Blackened Swordfish, FDR Grilled Cheese, Comptroller DiNapoli’s Chicken Parm, and Eric Adams’ Vegan Black Bean Tacos. Mayor Adams has even dined there, according to a photo posted on Google Maps.
Conclusion
Shapiro is determined to fight this proposal, believing that it is a threat to his business and the legacy of New York’s culinary tradition. Whether his legal claim holds weight remains to be seen, but he is confident that he will win and will use the funds to donate to charity.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason behind Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s proposal to rename the New York Strip to the "Texas Strip"?
A: Patrick believes that this move will promote the Texas brand and benefit the state’s economy, citing 12.2 million head of cattle in the "cattle capital" of the US.
Q: What is the response of the War Room Tavern’s owner, Todd Shapiro, to this proposal?
A: Shapiro is strongly opposed to the proposal, believing that it will undermine New York’s culinary heritage and hurt businesses like his. He has announced a one million dollar lawsuit against the State of Texas.
Q: What is the significance of the War Room Tavern’s menu items?
A: The War Room Tavern’s menu features items named after notable politicians, such as Gov. Al Smith’s Blackened Swordfish and FDR Grilled Cheese, which reflects the restaurant’s political theme.
Q: What is the current measles outbreak situation in Texas?
A: According to reports, there have been 159 confirmed cases of measles in Texas since late January, raising questions about the state’s legislative priorities.
