Bearded Ginger Bar and Grill — Review by Randy Santel
Spokane Valley, United States — American Gastropub
Randy Santel completes the Thor's Hammer Challenge at Bearded Ginger Bar and Grill, an 8-pound beef shank challenge with various sides, finishing in 59 minutes and 58 seconds to claim the sixth spot on the wall of fame. Despite eating too much fat due to not having the meat pre-cut, he praised the quality of all the food items including the homemade sides and mozzarella sticks.
What was great: Tender and juicy beef shank, homemade mozzarella cheese logs with excellent cheese pull, fantastic mac and cheese, homemade coleslaw, chicken wings, Jojo potatoes, tater tots, and overall delicious food quality
What could improve: Did not have the meat pre-cut by the owner which resulted in eating more fat than necessary, making the challenge physically uncomfortable
The Dishes
The Thor's Hammer Challenge is built around a massive 5-pound beef shank with bone that is impossibly tender and juicy. Accompanying this centerpiece are homemade mozzarella cheese logs that are hand-rolled in-house, featuring an impressive cheese pull. Two dry-breaded chicken wings, homemade coleslaw served in pint-sized portions, baked beans, and a creamy homemade mac and cheese that Randy particularly praised as fantastic round out the protein offerings. The challenge also includes garlic bread split into two portions, half Jojo potatoes paired with half tater tots, and various other sides from the restaurant menu. A local amber beer called Roshambo is also provided.
The Experience
The restaurant was packed with excited supporters and local fans cheering Randy on throughout his attempt. The atmosphere was energetic and celebratory, with Katina (Randy's fiancee and fellow food challenger) providing coaching and support from the sidelines. Owner Tanner was present and actively involved, having created the challenge. The staff efficiently delivered the enormous tray and the overall vibe was one of community enthusiasm and genuine support for the competitive eater.
Value and Pricing
The challenge costs $85 if you fail to complete it within the one-hour time limit, or free if you win. If you want to split it with family without competing, the meal is approximately $150 plus tax. This represents decent value for the massive quantity and quality of food provided, especially considering all items are homemade.
Notable Moments
I should definitely have had a cut up. I'm going to feel awful because of all the fat I just ate.This became Randy's biggest regret during the challenge, as he discovered that previous challengers like Katina had requested the meat be pre-cut, which removes much of the excess fat.
If I get sick in front of Katina's family, my mom's not giving me any Christmas presents.Randy's humorous commentary highlighted the pressure of eating in front of his fiancee's family. He ultimately finished in 59 minutes and 58 seconds, securing the sixth spot on the wall of fame with just seconds to spare.
The Verdict
The Bearded Ginger Bar and Grill delivers exceptional quality across all their menu items, with particularly standout homemade sides and mozzarella sticks. While the challenge itself is brutally difficult, the food quality makes it worthwhile for serious competitive eaters or those wanting to experience an impressive meal. Randy highly recommends the restaurant and plans to return to try their pizza. This establishment is best for those seeking quality comfort food, creative challenges, or anyone in the Spokane Valley area looking for a fun, community-oriented dining experience with genuinely delicious homemade preparations.