KC Fins — Review by Randy Santel
Jackson, United States — Burgers, Barbecue
Randy Santel returns to KC Fins in Jackson, Tennessee to attempt their 150% Big Ass Burger Challenge, which features 12 half-pound burger patties with 24 slices of American cheese, 1.5 pounds of crinkle cut fries, and a 20 oz soda. He successfully completes the massive challenge in 24 minutes and 56 seconds, finishing before the 30-minute base time limit, praising the fresh beef quality and perfect cooking throughout.
What was great: Fresh never frozen beef, perfectly cooked and smashed patties, delicious cheese, crinkle cut fries cooked perfectly, banana pudding dessert with real nilla wafers
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The main event was KC Fins' 150% Big Ass Burger Challenge, which Randy describes as the largest burger they've ever served. The base challenge consists of 4 pounds of beef made from eight half-pound burger patties, each smashed and topped with two slices of American cheese and fresh vegetables. For the 150% version, Randy received 12 half-pound patties totaling over 6 pounds with 24 slices of American cheese. The beef was fresh never frozen, which Randy specifically praised multiple times throughout the challenge. The burger came with 1.5 pounds of their crinkle cut fries, which were perfectly cooked with a great texture. To complete the challenge, he needed to finish a 20-ounce soda, which he chose as Diet Coke to limit calories. For dessert, KC Fins provided banana pudding topped and filled with real nilla wafers, which Randy found delicious and tasting of homemade care.
The Experience
KC Fins operates as an outdoor food truck operation under a pavilion with only picnic tables for seating. Randy kneeled at a foldout table to eat the challenge, noting this is his preferred eating style for competitive challenges. The atmosphere was welcoming with lots of people in attendance showing appreciation and support. The kitchen staff impressed Randy with their patty smashing technique, with the chef pounding the burger patties aggressively, resulting in perfectly cooked smashed patties. The restaurant is well-known internet famous for their burgers and also serves barbecue foods and cheesesteaks. Randy finished the challenge just before sunset, creating a pleasant ending to the video.
Value & Pricing
The base Big Ass Burger Challenge is priced at $40. If completed successfully, the entire meal is free along with a commemorative t-shirt and placement on the wall of fame. The larger 150% challenge would cost more than the base price. For a food challenge of this magnitude with fresh beef and generous portions, the value is strong, especially considering the free meal upon completion.
Notable Moments
This is going to be the biggest burger they've ever served here. So I have 12 half-pound burger patties, which means I've got 24 slices of American cheese. It's over six pounds total for the burger.
The chef, I don't know if he's got some aggression issues, but he was pounding the burger patties when he was smashing them. But he did a hell of a job. These are perfectly cooked.
As good if not better than I remember. Wonderful burger.
Randy completed the challenge in 24 minutes and 56 seconds, beating the base 30-minute time limit and surpassing his own previous record from December 2018 when he first beat the base challenge in 12 minutes and 44 seconds. He noted that only one non-competitive or professional eater besides him has completed the base challenge.
The Verdict
KC Fins comes highly recommended for anyone seeking an excellent burger in Jackson, Tennessee. Despite the potholes in the parking lot, Randy insists the food quality is well worth navigating to get there. The fresh beef quality, perfectly cooked patties, generous cheese portions, and well-executed fries make this a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. The simple approach without frills allows the ingredient quality to shine through. Randy suggests getting there to try their burgers, and if feeling adventurous, attempting the Big Ass Burger Challenge. The banana pudding dessert is also a worthwhile addition to any meal.