"I have not heard applause like that since I announced I was leaving New York. Make up your mind."
Conan O'Brien kicked off his week-long return to New York City on Monday night with a show that was both an affectionate and sarcastic love letter to the Big Apple.
With an audience full of super fans, several of whom were decked out in hastily-made Conan costumes, the host embraced the town that was his home for so many years by indulging in some classic New York activities, like delivering Chinese food and visiting the set of the "Today Show" in disguise.
Conan then went on to address the elephant in the room, the rivalry between NYC and LA. To settle the debate once and for all, he introduced the "Fight to the Death Building Battle," between New York's Empire State Building and the "best building they could find," LA's Scientology book store.
After that the New York guests began to parade through, first with Mayor Bloomberg quizzing Conan on his knowledge of New York City. Then Jimmy Fallon, who took over O'Brien's "Late Night" spot on NBC, stopped by to talk hosting, how he got his Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavor and his Charlie Sheen impression. Fallon then sang his new Halloween song, which was actually about America.
The show wrapped up with New York comedian and musician Reggie Watts, covering Thin Lizzy's immortal "The Boys Are Back In Town."
All in all, it was a raucous kick-off to what is sure to be a great week.
