West Main Pizza — Review by Randy Santel
Jefferson City, United States — Pizza
Randy Santel returns to West Main Pizza in Jefferson City to attempt their 26-inch pizza challenge for the second time. While he previously won in 7 minutes 16 seconds with a simple Buffalo Chicken pizza, he failed this attempt after choosing their specialty Philly pizza loaded with cheesesteak, multiple cheeses, and alfredo sauce. Despite not finishing, the restaurant still donated $250 to the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri, and Randy praised the pizza's deliciousness despite his overconfident menu choices.
What was great: The Philly pizza was delicious with great cheesesteak meat, cheese, and vegetables; the Jalapeno Popper gourmet bread sticks looked excellent; the Cinnamon Sticks were good even when cooled off
What could improve: Ordered too many toppings making the pizza overly heavy; the alfredo sauce combined with extra cheese made it extremely rich and difficult to finish; the pieces became soggy and overly salty by the end
The Dishes
Randy ordered their signature Philly pizza as his main challenge item, a 26-inch specialty pizza featuring shaved steak, multiple cheeses, light green peppers, light onions, and an alfredo sauce base instead of traditional marinara. He also selected the Jalapeno Popper gourmet bread sticks as an appetizer, which featured cheddar cheese and jalapenos on pizza crust, and the Cinnamon Sticks loaded with frosting as dessert.
The Philly pizza itself was remarkably delicious during the first half, with Randy praising the generous amount of cheesesteak meat, abundance of cheese, and healthy vegetables. However, as he progressed, the combination of rich alfredo sauce, extra cheese, and thick crust pieces became overwhelming. The edges were easier to consume, but the interior pieces became increasingly soggy, salty, and heavy. The Jalapeno Popper bread sticks looked excellent with visible cheddar and jalapenos, and the Cinnamon Sticks appeared appetizing even after cooling, though Randy only sampled two pieces before running out of room.
The Experience
The restaurant was packed with an enthusiastic crowd that cheered Randy on throughout the challenge. The atmosphere was celebratory and supportive, with audience members offering encouragement and humor. Staff were accommodating, allowing Randy to order a specialty pizza instead of the standard one-topping version, and even providing his requested diet soda with no ice. Despite his struggle, the crowd remained engaged and sympathetic as his confidence waned.
Value and Pricing
The base challenge was priced at $69.99, bringing the total to approximately $75 with tax. Winners receive the entire meal free, a commemorative t-shirt, and placement on the Wall of Fame with photo and name. The restaurant operates a jackpot system where failed challengers contribute $20 toward a prize pool that has reached over $1,000 for past winners. Randy was guaranteed a $250 charitable donation even after failing, which went to the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri.
Notable Moments
I finished the challenge in 7 minutes and 16 seconds back in May 2018. Obviously, I got a little bit too cocky and overconfident and haha failed this time!!
This alfredo pizza is like so good, but don't eat this much!
I'm especially filled with regret, not only with the fact that I'm wearing a Missouri State shirt and poorly representing my alma mater, times 2.
A touching moment came when Randy expressed disappointment about not winning, but the restaurant staff immediately reassured him that they would still donate the $250 to charity, showing their genuine appreciation for his effort.
The Verdict
West Main Pizza is absolutely worth visiting, whether you're attempting the challenge or simply enjoying their menu. The pizza quality is excellent, the gourmet bread sticks are impressive, and the cinnamon dessert options are delightful. The 26-inch Philly pizza specifically is delicious but is genuinely a two-or-more-person meal rather than a solo challenge. The restaurant has successfully maintained their pizza challenge for 10 years with passionate ownership and great community support. If you visit, consider splitting items with friends or family and skip attempting the full challenge unless you're a competitive eating professional.