One thing I know to be true about Ohioans: they can eat. And who can blame them? From the crispy, golden layers of Cleveland-style pierogis to the sticky-sweet embrace of Buckeye candies, from perfectly charred Lake Erie perch to doughy, cheesy pizza that threatens to slide right off the plate, Ohioans take their food seriously. Sometimes, though, even the most devoted Midwestern appetites crave something more—something monumental, something that dares them to question their limits, something like the most intimidating food challenge in Ohio.
Enter Mount Olympus at Greek Village Grille in Lakewood, Ohio. The Mount Olympus Gyro is not for the faint of heart. Imagine a single pita, 15 inches long, packed with a pound each of lamb, beef, chicken, and pork, then topped with a cup each of tomatoes, onions, tzatziki, and an entire order of fries. All together, it weighs in at over 8 pounds: basically eight of the restaurant’s regular gyros stacked into one legendary sandwich. Over the years, only three people have actually finished it. Everyone else leaves humbled, stuffed beyond reason, and probably reconsidering their life choices.
Has Anyone Actually Beaten This Challenge?
Yes, three. But hundreds have tried. Hundreds of brave, hungry souls have sat down with visions of glory in their eyes, only to find that the Mount Olympus Gyro does not yield easily, making it one of the most feared food challenges in Ohio. Some tackle it with fierce determination, while others use a strategic bite-and-sip approach. Most end up surrendering somewhere between the second and third pound. There’s something humbling about facing eight pounds of meat, pita, and toppings, knowing your only weapons are a fork, a knife, and the stubborn will of a Greek titan whispering, “Eat me if you dare.”
Rules, Time Limits, and What’s at Stake
Here’s the deal: you have one hour to conquer the entire gyro. Finish it, and you earn a free Mount Olympus t-shirt and, of course, bragging rights that will follow you for the rest of your life. Fail, and you walk away full, tired, and a little awed by the sheer audacity of the challenge. The clock is merciless, the gyro is enormous, and your stomach is about to learn the meaning of “intimidating.” Every bite feels monumental, every bite tests your limits, and every bite reminds you why this is the stuff of Ohio food legend.
Beyond the challenge, Greek Village Grille offers a full menu of homemade, authentic Greek dishes. Enjoy classic gyros and souvlaki, whether you prefer them in pita or rice bowls, or explore spreads like hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, tzatziki, tyrokafteri, skordalia, and melitzanosalata. For those who appreciate the sweet side of Greece, desserts include traditional baklava, chocolate-covered baklava, homemade cheesecakes, and even Greek Chips: fried pita wedges dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with Nutella. Every bite is a celebration of the Mediterranean, crafted by owner and chef Tommy Karakostas, whose lifelong passion for Greek cuisine infuses every dish.
The restaurant itself is a gem in Lakewood, a town that thrives on a mix of arts, history, and food culture. After your challenge attempt, wander down to the Lakewood Park Marina, stroll the quaint streets lined with local cafes, or check out a gallery or two. The city is as much about experiences as it is about food, making it the perfect backdrop for the ultimate gyro showdown.
Take your appetite and curiosity to Lakewood and tackle the Mount Olympus Gyro. Whether you succeed or fail, you’ll leave with a story to tell, a belly full of Greek flavors, and a newfound respect for the sheer audacity of Ohio food challenges. For those who dare, Ohio’s culinary spirit is as bold and boundless as your appetite. And for the rest, remember: one thing I know to be true about Ohioans… they can eat. You know what else Ohioans are great at? Adventure! Find your next Buckeye State adventure using our new Travel Planner!…