The new contest is named for a newer New York hot dog institution, Crif Dogs, which started in 2001.

CNN: Hot dog eating champs all set for July Fourth contest

The Crif Dog Classic took place at Roberta's, a restaurant with its own growing reputation in Brooklyn's trendy Bushwick neighborhood.

CNN: Hot dog champs defend titles in annual showdown

This year, Kobayashi participated in an event titled Crif Dogs, a newer New York hot dog institution, which started in 2001.

CNN: Hot dog champs defend titles in annual showdown

The Crif Dog Classic will take place at Roberta's, a restaurant with its own growing reputation in Brooklyn's hip Bushwick neighborhood, just as Nathan's eaters compete in Coney Island.

CNN: Hot dog eating champs all set for July Fourth contest

While in the East Village, make like Superman and head to a phone booth at Crif Dogs (113 Saint Mark's Place, www.crifdogs.com) - a nouveau dog and burger joint in the heart of hipsterville.

BBC: A New York City bar crawl: A long day��s drinking into night