On the road to Paris

In the summer of 2012 when we passed through Amarillo we saw all the signs for the Big Texan and the free 72oz steak but didn't stop.  So this time we decided to stop and check it out.

The Big Texan is best known for its 72 ounce (4.5 pounds) steak, nicknamed "The Texas King." The steak is free to anyone who, in one hour or less, can eat the entire meal, consisting of the steak itself, plus bread roll with butter, baked potato, ranch beans, shrimp cocktail, and salad; otherwise, the meal costs $72.00. Those who have successfully consumed the Texas King meal have their names recorded and posted at the restaurant. As of March 15, 2011, over 8,800 people out of about 50,000 have accomplished this feat.  The oldest is a 68 year old Grandmother and the youngest is an 11 year old boy,
Those who take on the Texas King challenge are required to pay for the meal in advance, and if they are successful, their money is refunded. The steak is cooked to the participant's preference, and the challenge takes place at a table for one on a raised platform in the middle of the main dining room.

 

The record for the shortest time needed to finish the entire Texas King meal is held by competitive eating champion Joey Chestnut. He finished the challenge in 8 minutes and 52 seconds, breaking Frank Pastore's 1987 record (of 9½ minutes, which stood for 21 years) on his March 24, 2008 visit. The unofficial record is held by a 500-pound Siberian Tiger, who ate the steak in 90 seconds.

We stuck with the lunch special.
An 8oz Texan Strip Steak with sides.

 

Here we are, Paris Texas

 

Local residents like the humorous slogan "Second Largest Paris in the World." Following a tradition of American cities named "Paris", a 65-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower was constructed in 1993. In 1998, the city placed a giant red cowboy hat atop the tower.

We attended a Square Dance Festival weekend while in Paris.  Everyone was so nice.

Our new tye-dyed buddies!