Yukon,
the Downtown Hotel in Dawson City apparently had a “
famous Dawson City tradition” which involved drinking a shot of Yukon Gold whiskey with a withered old toe inside. In order to properly enjoy the “Sourtoe Cocktail,” the customer has to touch their lips to the toe, which has been dehydrated and preserved in salt. The bar established a $500 fine to prevent theft or swallowing of the toe.
The bar’s “toe captain”, Terry Lee was on duty the night an American decided a simple lip touch was not enough, so he swallowed the toe. Lee told the
CBC that the American, who reportedly had just collected his rent deposit, then placed the $500 cash on the table and left the bar.
The tradition began back in 1972. An estimated 60,000 customers have tried the Sourtoe Cocktail. The toe has been replaced eight times, due to theft, misplacement, or swallowing. Lee reports this is the first time the toe has been swallowed intentionally.
Fortunately for those who want to try the Sourtoe Cocktail, the hotel had a back-up. This is their last toe and they are hoping for additional donations. To prevent another intentional swallowing, the hotel has raised the fine from $500 to $2,500.
