[dnfsod]

It really shines a light on the excess of American culture.

Japan does have a “drink to excess” culture too, but it largely seems to be more with intent. (Also, in my travels I have found harder alcohols, 35%+, and shots culture are mostly a US characteristic.)

If I’d eat out with only my Japanese friends and we’d get a tabehoudai/nomihoudai we would only consume until sated, usually only ordering about the same amount as a normal menu item, but take advantage of the “all you can” to try new foods and drinks we were unsure if we’d like.

With my fellow American friends we would certainly abuse the privilege by drinking and eating beyond excess without necessarily even setting out to do so.