" The hardest is foods I am not familiar with. Gyros, I lost that one; I don’t like tzatziki sauce very much. I did kimchi in Korea, which was rough: fermented cabbage and spicy. "
- Joey Chestnut

The speaker discusses their difficulty in trying new foods they are unfamiliar with, particularly mentioning instances like gyros, where they struggled because they didn't enjoy tzatziki sauce, and kimchi from Korea, which was challenging due to its unique taste of fermented cabbage combined with spiciness. This quote highlights the common human experience of encountering new culinary traditions that can be difficult to adapt to.

On a deeper level, this statement touches on broader themes such as cultural adaptation and personal openness to novel experiences. Joey Chestnut’s reluctance towards unfamiliar dishes reflects a wider struggle many people face when confronting different cultures or practices outside their comfort zones. It suggests that while trying new things can be uncomfortable at first, these challenges can also offer growth opportunities by pushing individuals out of their routines. This sentiment encourages an appreciation for the discomfort and learning inherent in exploring diverse cuisines and cultures.

Joey Chestnut is known as a professional competitive eater who has achieved significant success in eating contests. Among his notable accomplishments are back-to-back victories at the annual Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, where he demonstrated exceptional endurance and consumption skills. His candid remarks about food reflect not only his expertise in eating but also his relatability as someone who still grapples with the tastes of unfamiliar dishes, much like any other person might.