When the King comes to America, what do you serve? A Costco favorite? If so, there's precedence!

Hot dog lunch for the Royals? Almost 90 years ago, FDR hosts a picnic for the King and Queen.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are visiting the US this week and those who reside in the White House have surely pondered what to serve the English Royals on this historic trip. Could a casual American food item, more at home at a picnic or baseball stadium than a state dinner, be on the short list?

Of course, we're talking hot dogs - and if that's the choice - there's precedence dating back almost 90 years ago.

In 1939, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, parents of Queen Elizabeth II, made a trip to America,  the guests of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady, Eleanor. They toured Washington D.C. and were feted at a formal State Dinner, but there was still time in their four-day visit for some casual fun. The latter came as picnic at the Roosevelt home in Hyde Park and, yes, hot dogs were on the menu.

BTS at Hyde Park. . . 

The grounds of Hyde Park, perfect for picnics

As noted in The Smithsonian (June, 2017), the New York Times ran the following headline, post picnic: "King Tries Hot Dog and Asks for More".

NYT's columnist, Felix Belair, postulated that the no frills frankfurter served as plain speaking diplomacy. Though outwardly it may be conveying "On behalf of the United States of America, may we offer you this tubular delight of meat, meat byproducts, curing agents and spices?"  But, what it's translation is buddy-talk for "How ya doing? Wanna beer?"

Though the English monarchs were willing to try this American non-delicacy, the Queen was unsure how to eat it. Served on silver platters, both the King and Queen joined the others eating off paper plates. However, the Queen drew the line at hot dogs as a finger food. She used a fork and knife. 

Coincidentally, the same week of King Charles' visit, Costco announced a change to their classic hot-dog and fountain drink combo. For over 40 years, the warehouse retailer has offered this combo for $1.50.

For those who enjoy discount shopping accompanied by a less than $2.00 repast, do not fret. The only change Costo is making to its "happy deal meal" is offering the option of swapping pop for water. Guests can now have a 16.9 ounce Kirkland brand of bottled water instead of a Coke. 

The Royals have been to countless formal dinners and black-tie affairs when visiting foreign dignitaries, so maybe a little more informal entertainment would be a welcome change. 

We have a Costco membership and would be happy to escort the King and Queen to our local store. We'd even offer to cover the cost of lunch.

Author's notes:  

1.  As our cover photo suggests, hot dogs can rise to an "elevated occasion". This hot dog and wine pairing took place in Dundee, Scotland (October, 2023) at a local restaurant on the eve of my husband and I touring St. Andrews. Hot dogs, pinot grigio and soccer on a big screen TV work well together. 

2. BTS features Eleanor Roosevelt tea talks. A remarkable first lady who provided us with a favorite quote:  A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong she is until she's in hot water.