Georgia: Big Pie in the Sky Carnivore Challenge
A Gastronomic Giant's Gauntlet
The Big Pie in the Sky Carnivore Challenge is a notorious food contest that has put Kennesaw, Georgia, on the map for both locals and visitors looking for a monstrous feast. Located at the Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria, this challenge has participants face off against an enormous, 11-pound, 30-inch pizza topped with a carnivorous array of pepperoni, ground beef, Italian sausage, ham, and bacon. Since its feature on the Travel Channel's Man v Food, the contest has drawn countless aspiring gluttons eager to test their limits.
Victory is no small feat; challengers have just one hour to consume this colossal creation in its entirety, an objective that requires both strategy and a voracious appetite. The endeavor is not just for the individual; often, it's a team effort where pairs join forces to conquer the pizza (What wine goes well with pizza?) behemoth. Participation in the challenge is typically scheduled during off-peak hours to accommodate the space needed for such an epic undertaking and the onlookers it attracts.
With each attempt, The Big Pie in the Sky Carnivore Challenge adds to its legacy, becoming a cultural landmark within Georgia's dining scene. It's not only a testament to American competitive eating culture but also a celebration of the sheer indulgence that pizza, especially one of such staggering size, represents. Whether participants are driven by hunger, curiosity, or the pursuit of glory, this pizzeria provides a stage for an unforgettable culinary battle.
Overview of the Carnivore Challenge
Big Pie in the Sky in Georgia presents a formidable food trial known as the Carnivore Challenge, where teams of two aim to consume an immense carnivore pizza within one hour for a chance to win a cash prize.
Basic Concept
The Carnivore Challenge requires a duo to tackle an 11-pound, 30-inch pizza laden with five different meats, testing their collective capacity to conquer an extraordinary amount of food in a fixed time frame. Participants must finish every slice of the pizza, which is heaped with toppings like pepperoni, ground beef, Italian sausage, ham, and bacon, within the 60-minute limit.
Success Rate
This pizza challenge is known for its low success rate due to the sheer volume and the richness of the meat toppings. It's a testament to determination and appetite, and many have tried, though only a few have secured their place in the record books.
Prize Details
If successful, the duo is awarded a $250 cash prize, making the victory not only a gastronomic achievement but also a financially rewarding one. This incentive adds an extra layer of motivation for participants to push their limits and potentially join the ranks of those who have emerged victorious from the Carnivore Challenge.
The Menu
Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria is renowned for its extensive selection of toppings and options, perfect for satisfying carnivorous cravings. The menu is a testament to their commitment to variety and their signature Carnivore Challenge.
Carnivore Pizza Ingredients
Meats: Generously topped with pepperoni, ham, ground beef, Italian sausage, bacon, and meatballs.
Cheese: A robust layer of melted cheese amalgamates the meat selection into a cohesive, savory pie.
Additional Offerings
Subs & Salads: Classic subs and fresh salads for those seeking variety or a lighter option.
Calzones & Stromboli: Stuffed with cheese, Italian meats, and vegetables, each calzone and stromboli offers a twist on traditional pizza flavors.
Lunch Specials: Slices with up to 2 toppings and a drink, offering a quick and satisfying meal.
Chicken Options: Available in several menu items for an alternative source of protein.
Location and Atmosphere
Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria is renowned for its American and New York-style pizzas which are baked to perfection in a stone deck oven. Patrons visiting either the Kennesaw or Roswell locations are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that underscores the pizzeria's commitment to offering a truly authentic experience.
Kennesaw Location
The Kennesaw branch is situated on 2090 Baker Rd, instantly recognizable by its vibrant facade. This location not only boasts a spacious dining area but also offers outdoor seating for those who prefer to enjoy their pizza under the Georgia sky. Ample parking ensures that guests never have to worry about finding a spot, even during the busiest hours.
Roswell Location
Roswell, on the other hand, maintains the same high-quality pizza experience with an ambiance that reflects the heritage of Big Pie in the Sky. The Roswell location continues the tradition of serving sumptuous pies straight from their stone deck ovens, catering to pizza aficionados who seek that authentic crust only a true New York-style pizzeria can provide.
Rules and Participation
The Carnivore Challenge hosted by Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria offers a formidable test for pizza aficionados. Participants must adhere to a set of rules to partake in this food competition.
Team Composition: Teams comprise two people, which underscores the challenge's difficulty. Solo attempts are not permitted.
Pizza Dimensions: The challenge features a colossal 30-inch pizza known as the Carnivore, loaded with a variety of meats including pepperoni, ground beef, Italian sausage, ham, and bacon.
Time Limit: The team is allotted 60 minutes to completely finish the pizza, including any remaining crust.
To ensure a smooth experience, individuals interested in participating need to:
Schedule an attempt by calling Big Pie in the Sky in advance, as challenges are typically arranged at specific times to avoid peak hours.
Understand that no bathroom breaks are allowed during the one-hour timeframe.
Realize that there is no room for leftovers; every slice must be consumed.
It's also noteworthy that the participants are not allowed to stand up or leave the table once the challenge commences. Teams must remain seated and tackle the enormity of their pizza within the confines of their table.
As for side dishes, the challenge does not require the inclusion of a table salad or other side items—it's all about the pizza. Conquerors of the challenge earn a spot on Big Pie in the Sky's coveted wall of fame, receiving recognition for their impressive feat.
Pop Culture and Media
Big Pie in the Sky’s colossal pizza challenge not only satisfies hearty appetites but has also caught the eye of popular media, particularly on the Travel Channel’s hit show "Man v. Food."
Man v. Food Segment
In 2009, "Man v. Food," hosted by Adam Richman, put a spotlight on Big Pie in the Sky and its Carnivore Challenge. The segment featured on the Travel Channel showcased participants taking on the daunting task of consuming an 11 lb Carnivore pizza within an hour. This exposure helped catapult the challenge into a local legend and attract thrill-seekers eager to test their limits. Man v. Food's segment showed the intensity and excitement of the challenge, contributing to the pizzeria's growing fame.
Visitor Information
The Big Pie in the Sky Carnivore Challenge offers a unique dining experience that appeals to adventurous food lovers. In this section, visitors will find pertinent information to plan their visit, including the best times to come, how children can be accommodated, and feedback from previous customers.
Best Times to Visit
To participate in the Carnivore Challenge, scheduling is key. Challenges are typically held at 3:30 PM and 8:30 PM, Monday through Thursday to ensure a less crowded atmosphere. Those planning to take on this gastronomic quest should call ahead to schedule their challenge at Big Pie in the Sky, as these time slots avoid peak restaurant hours.
Accommodations for Kids
Big Pie in the Sky is a family-friendly establishment. While the Carnivore Challenge is a meat-lovers delight designed for two adults, the restaurant offers a variety of pizza sizes and menu items suitable for children. Those coming for lunch or dinner with kids can rest assured that their little ones will have appropriate dining options.
Customer Reviews
Visitors often leave feedback regarding their experience. Checking customer reviews can provide insight into the challenge itself as well as the atmosphere of the pizzeria. Reviews typically mention the quality of the pizza, the difficulty of the challenge, and the overall experience, guiding prospective challengers in setting realistic expectations.
