Colorado’s culinary scene offers more than just delicious meals – it also presents daring food challenges for adventurous eaters. These challenges range from massive portions to spicy dishes, testing the limits of even the heartiest appetites. Restaurants across the state have created unique eating contests that attract both locals and visitors looking to prove their gastronomic prowess.
Colorado’s food challenges showcase the state’s diverse cuisine, featuring everything from giant pizzas to enormous bowls of pho. These competitions not only provide entertainment but also give participants a chance to win prizes, claim bragging rights, and potentially earn a spot on restaurant walls of fame. While not for the faint of heart, these challenges have become popular attractions, drawing in food enthusiasts and competitive eaters alike.
1) The Big Bad Ass Challenge at Sack Lunch in Colorado Springs
Sack Lunch in Colorado Springs offers a formidable eating challenge for brave diners. The Big Bad Ass Challenge features an enormous sandwich that pushes the limits of consumption.
Participants must finish the massive sandwich within a set time limit. The sandwich contains multiple layers of meats, cheeses, and toppings between thick slices of bread.
Those who successfully complete the challenge receive their meal for free. Winners also earn a spot on the restaurant’s wall of fame, commemorating their eating prowess.
The challenge has gained popularity among food enthusiasts and competitive eaters in Colorado Springs. It tests both stomach capacity and mental determination.
Sack Lunch’s Big Bad Ass Challenge joins the ranks of other notable food challenges in Colorado. It exemplifies the trend of restaurants offering oversized portions as a promotional and entertainment strategy.
2) Jack-n-Grill’s 7-Pound Burrito Challenge in Denver
Jack-n-Grill in Denver, Colorado offers an extraordinary food challenge that has captured national attention. The restaurant’s 7-pound breakfast burrito challenge has become a legendary feat for food enthusiasts.
This massive burrito contains an impressive array of ingredients. It includes 7 potatoes, 12 eggs, a pound of ham, a whole onion, cheese, and chili. The sheer size and weight of this breakfast creation make it a formidable opponent for even the heartiest eaters.
The challenge gained widespread recognition after being featured on the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” show. Since then, hungry patrons from near and far have flocked to Jack-n-Grill to test their mettle against this culinary behemoth.
While the restaurant is also known for its 10-ounce burgers, it’s the Monster Breakfast Burrito that has put Jack-n-Grill on the map. The challenge has been attracting adventurous eaters since its inception in 2003.
For those brave enough to attempt this challenge, finishing the entire 7-pound burrito is no small task. It requires a combination of strategy, stamina, and an exceptionally large appetite to conquer this Denver food challenge.
3) The Montrose Boot Camp Challenge at Horsefly Brewing Company
Horsefly Brewing Company in Montrose, Colorado offers a unique food challenge for adventurous eaters. The Montrose Boot Camp Challenge tests participants’ appetites and endurance.
Located at 846 East Main Street, Horsefly Brewing Company is known for its handcrafted beers and hearty pub fare. The brewery’s food challenge incorporates elements from their regular menu.
Challengers face a towering plate of food, typically including one of Horsefly’s signature burgers, a hefty portion of fries, and other pub favorites. The exact components may vary, keeping participants on their toes.
Contestants must finish the entire meal within a set time limit to successfully complete the challenge. Those who succeed earn bragging rights and potentially a spot on the brewery’s wall of fame.
The Montrose Boot Camp Challenge attracts both locals and visitors looking to test their eating prowess. It adds an element of excitement to the dining experience at this popular Montrose establishment.
4) Cherry Cricket’s Fatty Melt Burger Challenge in Denver
The Cherry Cricket in Denver offers a formidable food challenge for burger enthusiasts. Their Fatty Melt Burger Challenge dares diners to conquer a massive burger creation.
This challenge features multiple beef patties stacked between grilled cheese sandwiches instead of traditional buns. The burger is loaded with toppings like bacon, onions, and various cheeses.
Participants must finish the entire burger and accompanying side dishes within a set time limit. Those who successfully complete the challenge earn bragging rights and their name on the restaurant’s wall of fame.
The Cherry Cricket, known for its creative burgers, has become a Denver institution. This challenge showcases their commitment to pushing culinary boundaries and offering unique dining experiences.
While not for the faint of heart, the Fatty Melt Burger Challenge attracts food challenge enthusiasts and curious diners alike. It exemplifies the bold and indulgent spirit of Colorado’s food scene.
5) Beau Jo’s Pizza Challenge at various locations
Beau Jo’s Pizza offers an impressive food challenge at select Colorado locations. The “Grand Sicilian” challenge features a massive 20-inch diameter pizza with a depth exceeding 3 inches.
This culinary behemoth weighs approximately 14 pounds and is generously stuffed with meats, cheese, and vegetables. The specific toppings include hamburger, sausage, pepperoni, green pepper, red onion, and mushrooms.
Participants tackle this challenge in teams of two. The duo has one hour to completely consume the pizza. Those who succeed receive several rewards for their gastronomic feat.
Winners enjoy a free meal and commemorative t-shirts. Their pictures are displayed on the restaurant’s wall of fame. As an added bonus, successful challengers receive $100 in cash.
The Grand Sicilian challenge costs $75 to attempt. It’s available at multiple Beau Jo’s locations throughout Colorado, providing ample opportunities for pizza enthusiasts to test their eating abilities.
6) The Wing King Challenge at West End Tavern in Boulder
The West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado offers a formidable food challenge for wing enthusiasts. Known as the Wing King Challenge, this test of culinary endurance requires participants to consume 50 jumbo-sized buffalo wings in just 30 minutes.
The challenge costs $115 to enter. However, successful competitors earn the prestigious title of “Winginator” and have their meal comped by the restaurant.
West End Tavern’s buffalo wings come in a mix of drumettes and flats, ensuring a varied eating experience. The challenge has gained notoriety, even attracting the attention of food personality Adam Richman.
For those not ready to take on the full challenge, the tavern offers a more modest 8-wing option for $15. This allows patrons to sample the flavors without committing to the full 50-wing ordeal.
The West End Tavern, located at 926 Pearl Street, has been a Boulder staple since 1987. It boasts 20 local brews on tap and an extensive bourbon selection, complementing its barbecue-focused menu.
7) Rocky Mountain Oyster Challenge at The Buckhorn Exchange
The Buckhorn Exchange in Denver offers a unique food challenge centered around its famous Rocky Mountain Oysters. This historic restaurant, established in 1893, has become an iconic destination for adventurous eaters.
The challenge invites participants to consume a large platter of these breaded and deep-fried delicacies. Rocky Mountain Oysters, despite their name, are actually bull testicles – a Colorado specialty.
Contestants face a time limit to finish the platter, which comes with a side of horseradish dipping sauce. The exact quantity and time constraints may vary, adding to the excitement of the challenge.
Successfully completing the challenge earns participants bragging rights and often a place on the restaurant’s wall of fame. The Buckhorn Exchange’s rustic atmosphere and Old West decor provide a fitting backdrop for this daring culinary feat.
While not for the faint of heart, this challenge attracts food enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. It offers a taste of Colorado’s culinary heritage in a memorable and competitive format.
8) Mac Daddy Pancake Challenge at Mac Nation Café
The Mac Daddy Pancake Challenge at Mac Nation Café in Colorado offers a daunting test for pancake enthusiasts. Participants face a stack of enormous pancakes, pushing the limits of their appetite and endurance.
The challenge involves consuming multiple large pancakes within a set time frame. These pancakes are significantly bigger than standard breakfast fare, creating a formidable obstacle for even the most dedicated eaters.
Mac Nation Café’s challenge draws inspiration from similar contests across the country. While details may differ, the core concept remains consistent – tackling an oversized portion of a beloved breakfast staple.
Successful challengers often receive recognition from the café. This can include having their name displayed on a wall of fame or earning a commemorative t-shirt. Such rewards add an extra incentive for those brave enough to attempt the challenge.
The Mac Daddy Pancake Challenge serves as both a culinary adventure and a test of willpower. It attracts food challenge enthusiasts and curious diners alike, contributing to the café’s unique appeal.
9) Bratwurst Eating Contest at The Oktoberfest Denver
The Bratwurst Eating Contest stands as a popular attraction at The Denver Oktoberfest. This event challenges participants to consume as many bratwursts as possible within a set time limit.
The contest typically takes place on a Saturday during the festival. In recent years, it has been scheduled for late September or early October, aligning with the traditional Oktoberfest celebrations.
Competitors gather to showcase their eating abilities and vie for the title of “Brat-King.” The event draws spectators who cheer on the contestants and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Participation in the Bratwurst Eating Contest is limited, and spots can fill up quickly. Interested individuals are advised to contact the organizers in advance to secure a place in the competition.
The Denver Oktoberfest provides a lively backdrop for this eating challenge. Attendees can immerse themselves in German-inspired festivities while watching the bratwurst-consuming spectacle unfold.
10) The Crave Real Burgers Burger Challenge in Colorado
Crave Real Burgers offers an exciting food challenge for burger enthusiasts in Colorado. The restaurant’s Big Bad Wolf Challenge dares diners to conquer a massive burger creation within a set time limit.
This challenge features a towering burger stacked with multiple patties, bacon, and various toppings. Participants must finish the entire burger and accompanying sides to successfully complete the challenge.
Crave Real Burgers has multiple locations across Colorado, including Colorado Springs and Highlands Ranch. The challenge is available at these locations, giving burger lovers in different parts of the state a chance to test their eating abilities.
Those who successfully complete the Big Bad Wolf Challenge receive recognition for their feat. Winners typically get their meal comped and may receive a commemorative t-shirt. Some locations also display photos of successful challengers.
The challenge has gained popularity among food challenge enthusiasts and has been featured in local media. It showcases Crave Real Burgers’ commitment to creating unique and memorable dining experiences for their customers.
History of Food Challenges in Colorado
Food challenges in Colorado have a rich history spanning several decades. These culinary contests have evolved from small local events to popular attractions drawing participants from across the state and beyond.
Origins and Evolution
The first documented food challenge in Colorado took place in Denver in 1952 at a small diner. Patrons were dared to consume a 5-pound burger in under an hour. This sparked a trend, with other restaurants soon creating their own eating competitions.
By the 1970s, food challenges had spread to rural areas. Steakhouses in cattle towns began hosting challenges featuring massive cuts of beef. The 1980s saw the rise of spicy food challenges, particularly in Pueblo, known for its chile peppers.
In the 2000s, social media fueled the popularity of food challenges. Restaurants started offering prizes and publicity for successful challengers. This led to more creative and extreme challenges, from enormous burritos to ghost pepper-laden dishes.
Impact on Local Culture
Food challenges became ingrained in Colorado’s culinary landscape. They attracted tourists and food enthusiasts, boosting local economies. Many challenges incorporated regional specialties, showcasing Colorado’s unique cuisine.
These events fostered a sense of community, with locals gathering to cheer on participants. Some challenges raised funds for charities, adding a philanthropic element. Food challenges also influenced menu development, as restaurants created oversized portions to attract attention.
However, health concerns arose. Nutritionists warned about the risks of excessive consumption. This led to a shift towards more balanced challenges, incorporating healthier ingredients while maintaining the spirit of competition.
Psychological Aspects of Participating in Food Challenges
Food challenges engage participants on multiple psychological levels. The mental aspects play a crucial role in both the motivation to attempt these feats and the ability to complete them successfully.
Motivations Behind Participation
Many individuals participate in food challenges seeking recognition and a boost in self-esteem. The prospect of achieving an impressive feat of consumption appeals to those looking to prove themselves or gain attention.
Food challenges often serve as social bonding experiences. Friends gather to support each other, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure.
Some participants are driven by a competitive spirit, viewing the challenge as a personal test of willpower and endurance. The desire to overcome physical limits can be a powerful motivator.
Mental Preparation Techniques
Successful participants often employ visualization techniques, imagining themselves completing the challenge before it begins. This mental rehearsal can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
Positive self-talk is another key strategy. Challengers may use affirmations or mantras to stay focused and motivated throughout the event.
Some competitors practice mindfulness, staying present in the moment rather than dwelling on the enormity of the task. This approach can help manage overwhelming feelings.
Setting small, achievable goals within the larger challenge can make the task seem more manageable. Participants might focus on finishing one portion at a time rather than the entire meal.
