Thanks to the ongoing government shutdown, many overqualified professionals in Washington are facing an existential crisis. Among them, Isaac Stein, a 31-year-old IRS attorney, is turning the distress into an opportunity by embracing a childhood fantasy—running his own hot dog cart. In a city filled with lawyers claiming to serve the public, Stein stands out by literally serving the public from his hot dog stand, SHYSTERS, a venture he describes as "performance art meets processed meat."

Stein's cart, complete with a suit and tie, offers a unique blend of humor and culinary delight under the slogan "The Only Honest Ripoff in D.C." His attention to detail reflects both a lawyer's precision and a comedian's sensibility. According to reports, a popular choice among patrons is a steamed hot dog topped with spicy brown mustard and sauerkraut, aptly named ‘The Only Choice: Correct Hot Dog and Drink.’

The menu also features a mix of nostalgic and regional flavors, including Hebrew National hot dogs paired with Chicago-style giardiniera. For those with a sweet tooth or a penchant for Southern comforts, Moon Pies and RC Cola are also on offer. Stein even promises a nickel off to anyone who can recite the historical significance of these last two items.

What started as a weekend venture has blossomed into a full-time gig amid the government shutdown. Stein, who has invested a significant amount into SHYSTERS, mentioned that the experience of running the cart feels like reading "vignettes in a novel," offering him brief glimpses into the lives of his customers. "You feel really connected," he said, highlighting the stark contrast to his former desk job.

Even as the shutdown persists, Stein plans to continue his hot dog enterprise on weekends once the government reopens, proving that for him, serving the public comes with a literal serving of sauerkraut. His story is not just about a quirky career pivot during unexpected downtime; it's a heartening example of how creativity and a sense of community can turn a difficult situation into a fulfilling new beginning.

For those in D.C., SHYSTERS isn't just a hot dog stand; it's a statement—an honest ripoff where every bite comes with a dash of legal wit and a connection to the community. So next time you're in the capital, why not let a furloughed tax lawyer serve you the "correct" hot dog? It might just be the most honest meal you'll have in Washington.