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Insane Food Challenges in Tucson That’ll Have You Breaking a Sweat

Insane Food Challenges in Tucson That’ll Have You Breaking a Sweat

Jan 9, 20194 min read

For those daredevils out there looking to push the boundaries on all things food, we’ve found local challenges for you.

From a 5-pound burrito named after a dinosaur to an intimidating dish created by a former navy seal, we dare you to try these hefty plates.

If you can endure the spice level or devour the enormous dish, you’ll likely receive a free shirt or get your picture tacked to the wall (and if that’s what you’re in it for, we won’t tell).

Trident Grill

2033 E. Speedway Blvd.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTWxjTTAT6g/

Navy Seal Burger Challenge: Could you scoff this beast in 15 minutes?

The owner, Nelson Miller, and former U.S. Navy Seal aptly named this tough burger challenge at Trident Grill.

Four half-pound beef patties, muenster, jalapeños, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion make up this oversized burger. Served with a whopping pound of fries, the meal goes for $25, unless you finish in 15 minutes, then it’s on the house.

For more information, visit tridentgrill.com.

Tania’s “33” Mexican Food

614 N. Grande Ave.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bij5E8oHu8I/

B. REX Burrito: Could you chow it down in 20 minutes?

The B. REX, weighing in at 5 pounds, is a behemoth of a burrito. Rawr!

With fresh ingredients that pair well, it doesn’t compromise on taste. Carne asada, guacamole, pico de gallo, beans, rice, sour cream, cheese, roasted green chile, lettuce, and potatoes are stuffed inside six large house-made tortillas making it “filling enough for a dinosaur.”

This $20 burrito is free–if you finish it within 20 minutes.

For more information, visit tanias33.com or call (520) 622-0685.

Lindy’s on 4th • Lindy’s Off 4th

500 N. Fourth Ave. • 8995 E. Tanque Verde Rd.

(Photo courtesy of Lindy's on 4th on Facebook)
(Photo courtesy of Lindy’s on 4th on Facebook)

Lindy’s has, not one but, TWO burger challenges—the three-pound OMFG Burger, and its spicier companion, the equally large Burnout Burger.

OMFG Burger

If you can inhale three pounds of house-seasoned beef, one pound cheddar and Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and Lindy’s Sauce in 20 minutes or less, it’s on them.

Just FYI, Michelle Lesco did it in under 4 minutes.

The Burnout

Three pounds of house-seasoned beef layered with pepper jack cheese, green chilis, jalapeños, ghost pepper sauce, and guacamole make up this towering brute. Finish in 30 minutes or less (and keep it down) and the $45 burger is on the house.

For more information, visit lo4th.com.

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Red Desert BBQ & Catering

918 W. Prince Rd.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BdBXW8mjTlW/

BBQ Burrito: Challenge accepted?

This six/seven-pound 23-inch long burrito is “filled with brisket, pulled pork and plenty of fixin’s to fill you up.”

There’s a time to beat: Michelle Lesco demolished it in 12 minutes. Top that and become the reigning champion (and get to the top of the Wall of Fame).

If you’re ready and willing (and have trained for this moment most of your adult life), get on down, finish within 20 and show them who’s boss (otherwise you’re paying $40).

For more information, visit rdbbq.com.

Wings Over Broadway

5004 E. Broadway Blvd.

The Afterburner: Would you send your tastebuds into shock?

It’s rumored that you can smell the fiery heat looming from the seasoning when the wings first come out doused in the restaurant’s Afterburner sauce.

If you think you can handle the challenge of eating a dozen wings within 10 minutes while not drinking anything, you’ll get the $6.99 wings free, your picture hung on the wall of fame AND a Wings Over Broadway T-shirt.

For more information, visit wobtucson.com.

Daniela’s Cooking

4400 N. Paseo Del Barranco

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq80XTxD10y/

Stupid Hot Wings: Do you dare?

Daniela’s — the Tucson-based food trailer that you’ll often find outside of 1912 Brewing Co. or Caps & Corks — makes wings in a try-if-you-dare-stupid hot sauce.

Four different peppers go into the fiery sauce—including chiltepins and jalapeños.

Daniela makes the wings only on Wednesdays. She said that anyone who can eat all five wings in her specialty sauce usually goes through a couple of beers in the process (and their lips are still on fire).

For more information, visit danielascooking.com.

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Brushfire BBQ Co.

2745 N. Campbell Ave. • 7080 E. 22nd St.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BDytHqhMppq/

Messy Fries: Are you HUNGRY for these?

Brushfire’s Messy fries take their seasoned fries loaded with your choice of smoked meat, BBQ sauce, and pile them with cheese.

One taste of their slow-roasted pork belly, smokey brisket, or Brushfire Pork and you’ll understand why these ingredients are repeated throughout the menu.

The extra-large “hungry” portion is ideal to share or to try solo if you’re feeling famished.

For more information, visit brushfirebbq.com.

Gus Balon’s

6027 E. 22nd St.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfgQTpsgLGI/

Cinnamon Roll: Dare to tackle the monster?

Mmmm… Cinnamon rolls. Gus Balon’s makes them warm and gooey, frosted with icing, and impossibly giant.

The sweet specialty is house made—much like their pies and other pastries. Make sure you grab one next time you stop by the breakfast place.

For more information, visit gusbalonsrestaurant.com. 

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Article written by:

Chelsey Wade

Chelsey Wade

More about Chelsey
Chelsey Wade has traveled to 22 countries in search of the perfect fish & chips. She spends her time hiking the trails of Tucson and taking care of her five-pound Chihuahua.

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@Sonoranrestaurantweek is almost here! September 4–13!🌵

This year, Flying V at @loewsventana is featuring a special K4 Ranch Prime Beef Tasting for $55.🥩

Dry-Aged Beef Tartare
Koji-Honey Vinaigrette, Fermented Tomato, Shallot, Pistachio, Fry Bread I *+18 add Flying V Special Reserve Caviar I *Casa Madero - Chardonnay — Valle de Parras, Mexico 

Tournedos of Filet Mignon
Desert Pearl Oyster Mushrooms, Del Bac Demi Glace, Our Beef Garum, Chives I Family Style: Hayden Mills Polenta, Farmer’s Market Featured Vegetables I *Merkin — Chupacabra Red - (Grenache, Mourvédre, Syrah, Petite Sirah) - Willcox, Arizona 

Caramel Butter Cake
Exo Coffee-Toffee Sauce, Bread Syrup, Preserved Jujube Chutney, Bone Marrow Ice Cream I *Flying Leap — Sangiovese – Elgin, Arizona 

See menus and build your itinerary on Tucsonfoodie/srw👈
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonevents@Sonoranrestaurantweek is almost here! September 4–13!🌵 This year, Flying V at @loewsventana is featuring a special K4 Ranch Prime Beef Tasting for $55.🥩 Dry-Aged Beef Tartare Koji-Honey Vinaigrette, Fermented Tomato, Shallot, Pistachio, Fry Bread I *+18 add Flying V Special Reserve Caviar I *Casa Madero - Chardonnay — Valle de Parras, Mexico Tournedos of Filet Mignon Desert Pearl Oyster Mushrooms, Del Bac Demi Glace, Our Beef Garum, Chives I Family Style: Hayden Mills Polenta, Farmer’s Market Featured Vegetables I *Merkin — Chupacabra Red - (Grenache, Mourvédre, Syrah, Petite Sirah) - Willcox, Arizona Caramel Butter Cake Exo Coffee-Toffee Sauce, Bread Syrup, Preserved Jujube Chutney, Bone Marrow Ice Cream I *Flying Leap — Sangiovese – Elgin, Arizona See menus and build your itinerary on Tucsonfoodie/srw👈 #tucsonfoodie #tucsonevents
TOMORROW! An evening of food, plants, and connection returns under the desert sky.🌵✨

In partnership with @salus.healers, join us tomorrow, August 29, at @tohonochul for Desert Magic, a one-night celebration of the edible and medicinal beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Stroll the gardens, drink in hand, and discover chef and wellness stations along the way. 

🌿WELLNESS PRACTITIONERS offering sound healing, massage, somatic therapy, readings, reiki, plant walks, workshops & more: @awakenedwombs | @curavidabodywork | @dharmawellness.center | @drkorigiudici | Ease Bodywork | @itsme.emmav | @healingspiritsoaks | @marie.heartnectar | @innerblissenergetics | @jessi.kyte.bodywork | Medicine Within | @monsoonmystics | @morosomedicalcenter | @intuitive_readings_by_zev | @sugarmelovetucson | @tantricheart_coaching | @gathering_point_ | @thehealinghubaz | The Somatic Sound 

🔥FOOD: @el_chef_padilla (@copperashculinary) | @landofmilknhoney (@tohonochulgardenbistro) | @chefdevonsanner (@sandpcreative) | Chef Gracie Soto (@anita_st_market) | @chefjosetucson (@ameliastucson) | @kenneth.foy | Obie Hindman & @tuckerhartford (@tucsoncityofgastronomy & @solpuebloprovisions) | @archimagirus_cultro (@scratchingtheplate)

🥣 SOUNDS @tucsonmodernjazzquartet | DJ Sets by Rosa Dragona & LaDev

Ticket includes wellness stations, herb walks, workshops, sound healing, & botanical drinks.

Tap the link in bio to grab yours! 🎟️✨ 

Video by @dalton.voss 
#tucsonfoodie #tucsoneventTOMORROW! An evening of food, plants, and connection returns under the desert sky.🌵✨ In partnership with @salus.healers, join us tomorrow, August 29, at @tohonochul for Desert Magic, a one-night celebration of the edible and medicinal beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Stroll the gardens, drink in hand, and discover chef and wellness stations along the way. 🌿WELLNESS PRACTITIONERS offering sound healing, massage, somatic therapy, readings, reiki, plant walks, workshops & more: @awakenedwombs | @curavidabodywork | @dharmawellness.center | @drkorigiudici | Ease Bodywork | @itsme.emmav | @healingspiritsoaks | @marie.heartnectar | @innerblissenergetics | @jessi.kyte.bodywork | Medicine Within | @monsoonmystics | @morosomedicalcenter | @intuitive_readings_by_zev | @sugarmelovetucson | @tantricheart_coaching | @gathering_point_ | @thehealinghubaz | The Somatic Sound 🔥FOOD: @el_chef_padilla (@copperashculinary) | @landofmilknhoney (@tohonochulgardenbistro) | @chefdevonsanner (@sandpcreative) | Chef Gracie Soto (@anita_st_market) | @chefjosetucson (@ameliastucson) | @kenneth.foy | Obie Hindman & @tuckerhartford (@tucsoncityofgastronomy & @solpuebloprovisions) | @archimagirus_cultro (@scratchingtheplate) 🥣 SOUNDS @tucsonmodernjazzquartet | DJ Sets by Rosa Dragona & LaDev Ticket includes wellness stations, herb walks, workshops, sound healing, & botanical drinks. Tap the link in bio to grab yours! 🎟️✨ Video by @dalton.voss #tucsonfoodie #tucsonevent
SPECIAL DINNERS DURING SONORAN RESTAURANT WEEK🌵

@Sonoranrestaurantweek is ONE WEEK AWAY! In addition to prix-fixe menus around Tucson, @sonoranrestaurantweek features a lineup of special dinners and one very special brunch. Here’s the schedule:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 6 PM
Inca’s Peruvian Cuisine Special Dinner
📍 @incasperuviancuisine 
 
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • 6 PM
Penca Special Dinner
📍 @pencarestaurante 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 11 AM–2 PM
Sonoran Restaurant Week Brunch Takeover
📍 Flying V @loewsventana 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 6:30 PM
Whole Hog BBQ Dinner
📍 @bashfulbanditbbq 

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • 6 PM
Sunshine Wine Special Dinner
📍 @sunshine_wine_tucson with @queenofcupswines 

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • 6 PM
BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon Special Dinner
📍 @bocatucson 

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 • 6 PM
Bacio Italiano Special Dinner with @vertigo.wines 
📍 @bacio.italianoaz 

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 • 6 PM
Cielos Special Dinner
📍 @cielostucson 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 • 6 PM 
Nana’s Kitchen Special Dinner with @rombauervineyards 
📍 @nanas_kitchen_2008 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 • 6 PM
Wild Garlic Grill Special Dinner
📍 @wildgarlicgrillofficial 

Several events have limited seating and require tickets or reservations, so plan ahead!

Sonoran Restaurant Week runs September 4–13. Tap the link in our bio for menus, tickets, reservations, and more.❤️

#SRW2026 #sonoranrestaurantweek
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonfoodieeventsSPECIAL DINNERS DURING SONORAN RESTAURANT WEEK🌵 @Sonoranrestaurantweek is ONE WEEK AWAY! In addition to prix-fixe menus around Tucson, @sonoranrestaurantweek features a lineup of special dinners and one very special brunch. Here’s the schedule: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 6 PM Inca’s Peruvian Cuisine Special Dinner 📍 @incasperuviancuisine SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • 6 PM Penca Special Dinner 📍 @pencarestaurante SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 11 AM–2 PM Sonoran Restaurant Week Brunch Takeover 📍 Flying V @loewsventana SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 6:30 PM Whole Hog BBQ Dinner 📍 @bashfulbanditbbq TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • 6 PM Sunshine Wine Special Dinner 📍 @sunshine_wine_tucson with @queenofcupswines WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • 6 PM BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon Special Dinner 📍 @bocatucson THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 • 6 PM Bacio Italiano Special Dinner with @vertigo.wines 📍 @bacio.italianoaz FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 • 6 PM Cielos Special Dinner 📍 @cielostucson SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 • 6 PM Nana’s Kitchen Special Dinner with @rombauervineyards 📍 @nanas_kitchen_2008 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 • 6 PM Wild Garlic Grill Special Dinner 📍 @wildgarlicgrillofficial Several events have limited seating and require tickets or reservations, so plan ahead! Sonoran Restaurant Week runs September 4–13. Tap the link in our bio for menus, tickets, reservations, and more.❤️ #SRW2026 #sonoranrestaurantweek #tucsonfoodie #tucsonfoodieevents
Win 2 tickets to Oktober Foodie Fest! 🍺🥨🌭

Oktober Foodie Fest returns to @corbettstucson on Saturday, September 26th. It’s Oktoberfest, but with a Tucson Foodie flavor all its own!

🎶 Live Music 🍺 Craft Beer Garden 🏋️ Classic Contests 🥨 Authentic German Eats ✚ MORE! 

Here’s how to enter:
1️⃣ Follow @tucsonfoodie & @corbettstucson
2️⃣ Tag 1 friend (Your best brat-buddy🌭) and comment “Let’s go to OktoberFoodieFest!”
3️⃣ We’ll draw our winner for the two passes Friday 8/28 at 9:45AM, just before tickets go on sale at 10:00 AM!

Tickets on sale Friday 8/28 @ 10AM PT
Tickets & more info ➡️ oktoberfoodiefest.eventbrite.com

⚠️ Note for Foodie Insider Members: Check your email for your 50% event discount code!Win 2 tickets to Oktober Foodie Fest! 🍺🥨🌭 Oktober Foodie Fest returns to @corbettstucson on Saturday, September 26th. It’s Oktoberfest, but with a Tucson Foodie flavor all its own! 🎶 Live Music 🍺 Craft Beer Garden 🏋️ Classic Contests 🥨 Authentic German Eats ✚ MORE! Here’s how to enter: 1️⃣ Follow @tucsonfoodie & @corbettstucson 2️⃣ Tag 1 friend (Your best brat-buddy🌭) and comment “Let’s go to OktoberFoodieFest!” 3️⃣ We’ll draw our winner for the two passes Friday 8/28 at 9:45AM, just before tickets go on sale at 10:00 AM! Tickets on sale Friday 8/28 @ 10AM PT Tickets & more info ➡️ oktoberfoodiefest.eventbrite.com ⚠️ Note for Foodie Insider Members: Check your email for your 50% event discount code!