The 10 craziest food challenges in London
By Claire Bullen | 8 October 2025 | 5 minute read
Some view them as shameless gluttons, symptoms of a culture gone awry. Others see gastro-warriors, heroes capable of ingesting staggering amounts of grub in no time at all. But whether you worship or ridicule competitive eaters, you can’t deny that the “sport” is now firmly part of the zeitgeist.
If you’re hungry for victory – and think you have what it takes to wolf down huge amounts of food – try these 10 food challenges in London for a taste of the Man v. Food lifestyle. From hot wings slathered in naga viper chilli sauce to two-foot sausage rolls, it’ll take a special stomach to take these on.
The MeatLiquor Triple Chilli Challenge
MeatLiquor, the gloriously sloppy burger restaurant, is as famous for its queues as it is for its food. But not everyone going through the door is seeking a classic burger and fries combo. The restaurant’s Triple Chilli Challenge, one of the most popular food challenges in London, invites participants to gorge on a jalapeno-topped burger, a chilli dog, and a plate of chilli cheese fries – all in less than 10 minutes. Beat it and you’ll get to skip the queue for life.
Porky’s Man vs. Ribs Challenge
Taking a page from Man v. Food‘s book, the Man vs. Ribs challenge at Porky’s is equal parts Americana-inspired and utterly gluttonous. Held on Wednesdays, the challenge comprises a double order of ribs and a double order of fries. Scoff down the mountain of food and you won’t just get a t-shirt – you’ll also get a free meal for two if you’re the fastest eater for the month. Because if there’s anything a person wants post-food challenge, it’s more food.
Bengal Village Phaal Curry
Thought vindaloo was hot? You’ll be entering a new world of pain if you embark on Bengal Village’s phaal curry challenge. Traditionally made from a number of different chillies, phaal curry feels like consuming pure fire – Bengal Village touts it as “the hottest curry in the world,” and makes theirs with the notorious ghost chilli. Although the dish no longer officially appears on the menu, they’re still known for prepare special orders for those brave enough to take it on.
Pride of Paddington Shepherds Pie
Shepherds Pie is rib-sticking fare: dieters don’t favour heavy mash and braised meat. But how about a shepherd’s pie that’s as big as a birthday cake, and weighs four kilos? That’s what the Pride of Paddington is serving up, and thanks to its proportions, no one’s yet managed to take this challenge down.
The Mac Attack, Dirty Bones
Trendy BBQ, burger and brunch spot Dirty Bones offers a full menu of hearty dishes, like the Dirty Dogs, which come covered in pulled pork, crispy bacon and jalapeno cheese. But those with a serious appetite should take on the Mac Attack, comprising three beef patties, BBQ pulled pork, salad, tomatoes and mac and cheese all squeezed into brioche buns and served on a bed of dirty fries. Eat it all in 10 minutes and you get your meal free, a novelty cap and your picture on their Wall of Fame.
Pho & Bun Food Challenge
There’s not a lot given away on the menu, but those brave enough to take on Pho & Bun’s Food Challenge need only ask their waiter for details. An epic Asian-themed feast of pork belly, prawn patties, beef patties, vegetables and mango all stacked between two steamed buns, this giant leaning tower also comes with an enormous order of sweet potato fries. Eat your way through the entire thing in 15 minutes and you’ll get your meal for free and receive a £50 voucher to spend on your next splurge.