Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

GoodDecision t1_j9v9iq7 wrote

Reply to comment by glue715 in I Like Killing Flies (2004) profound and profane philosophies from an iconic New York restauranteur as he navigates gentrification in his neighborhood [1:18:14] by maxkmiller

This is my all-time favorite documentary. I watch it a few times a year. I have Kenny's book, a Shopsins menu printed on a decorative towel, and this little plastic stencil for "make your own spaghetti and meatballs" art. All were available to buy from them online a year or so ago.

56

shadowsurge t1_j9w52mu wrote

The modern shopsins is essentially a novelty run by his kids, it's a shame but they probably make more from that merch than food now.

26

GoodDecision t1_j9w5rd9 wrote

I'm well aware. I'd rather that than it close all together though. I am sad I missed my window to visit while Kenny was alive.

14

mata_dan t1_j9xyftc wrote

I wonder how much of that is indeed due to economic changes over time. Trying to make a profit off prepared food is er, a bit of a challenge to say the least. In cities the margins are usually pushed as close to just barely possible as they can be.

1

-Vagabond t1_j9ylbdg wrote

He actually discussed margins in his book and how most of his profit is from drinks like iced tea.

3

shadowsurge t1_ja064fa wrote

That's part of it, but nowadays it's mostly a counter in an upscale food hall, the neighborhood they're in has rapidly gentrified in the past few decades and little eateries like that have trouble surviving.

1

DoubleSpy t1_j9wj4to wrote

I quote this movie and that man at least once a month. Been doing it for nearly 10 years. I am so bummed I didn’t get to eat a meal he cooked before he passed. This movie is superb

8

GoodDecision t1_j9wnjye wrote

"The first duty of everybody in life is to realize that they're a piece of shit..."

This whole diatribe fundamentally changed my outlook on things to an extent. And for the best. The man was a philosopher.

25