This Insane Iowa Burger Challenge Will Make You Think Twice Before You Dig Right In
By Kim Magaraci|Published July 06, 2019
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Kim Magaraci
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Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Feeling hungry? Love BBQ? Perfect, because those are the only prerequisites to taking on the most outrageous Iowa food challenge around. If you want your chance at a spot in the Hall of Fame, head over towards Drake University and tackle the biggest sandwich you’ve ever seen.
Jethro's BBQ is a Des Moines institution, and this Drake area sports bar has earned a reputation for keeping hungry college kids well fed.
Jethro's isn't just a college bar, though, so don't let that stop you from checking it out. You'll find that the welcoming atmosphere makes you feel right at home.
... and their sandwiches are out of this world good. Try the Des Moines Melt! It's made with pit smoked ham, pork belly, bacon, and Jethro's secret sauce, with melted gouda on top, and served on grilled Texas Toast.
If you're up for it, try out their outrageous Adam Emmenecker Challenge. The sandwich is named after the famous basketball star that led Drake to its best season in decades
It starts with a simple cheese burger, and then the toppings pile on. Bacon, brisket, fried cheese, cheesy sauce, buffalo tenders, a tenderloin, and a spicy pickle... plus a pound of waffle fries.
You have 15 minutes to scarf it all down, but don't feel pressure - the record time is just under three minutes. Will you come out victorious, or will the sandwich win this round?
You’ll find the original Jethro’s in the heart of Des Moines, but they also have a few other locations scattered around the Hawkeye State. Visit their website here for location information and hours.
Address: 3100 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50311