The One Pound Takedown (Joe's Diner)

What better way to start a blog about gutsy girls than to devour one pound of meat? We couldn't think of one so when we heard the buzz about Joe's Diner we thought we'd take on the challenge.

The sign outside of Joe's Diner boasts "home of the one-pound hot dog"--the signature dish that drew us in to try this local diner. It is safe to say that we had no idea what we were in for--you have to see this one to believe it. Appropriately named "The Shaq" on the original menu, this all-beef dog requires two large buns and a cafeteria tray to accommodate its size. The selection of toppings allow you to have it your way from traditional add-ons like chili, slaw & cheese to more adventurous options including jalapenos and mango salsa.

We each opted for a different combination--one with chili & cheese, the other with jalapenos & cheese. Once the hot dogs were served up and we got past the initial size-shock (it did seem to take a while to prepare a hot dog of such epic proportions), the best approach for conquering this beefy beast seemed to be cutting it in half and taking it on in two parts. The hot dog meat is very tasty and the toppings give additional flavor that make the first side go down without much effort...it's the second half that starts to be a challenge. When it comes to timing we probably didn't break any records but in just under an hour we had both cleaned our plates. This may not be a challenge for the likes of "Man vs. Food" but it is certainly not for those with a weak stomach or a weak mind. That being said, our work here is done (with documentation to prove it).

Joe's offers additional menu selections typical for a short-order diner--breakfast, burgers, and of course a large variety of more average-sized dogs. The owners have created a friendly and inviting lunch spot in a section of Durham that is under transition, and a place that already seems to have a local crowd. There will definitely be a next time to try out some of their more reasonably portioned meals.