The 666 breakfast challenge at KJ's Cafe in Marchwood proves a beast for diners

A DEVILISH breakfast challenge set by a Marchwood cafe has proved so popular that competitors are having to phone ahead to take it on.

The so-called “666” at KJ’s Cafe gives eaters just 30 minutes to consume six pieces each of bacon, sausages and hash browns, plus three portions each of beans, tomatoes, toast and fried bread.

Anyone who completes it not only gets KJ’s owner Kristie Lea to cover the £12 cost of the humongous meal, but also the honour of their photo on the Marchwood Industrial Estate cafe’s wall of fame.

Posting each competitor’s picture on the cafe’s Facebook page is thought that have caused a recent surge in popularity – so much so that Kristie wants people to book ahead to ensure they are not disappointed.

“The challenge is becoming very popular, especially on Saturdays, and we will always try to accommodate you.

“But without a booking we can’t guarantee you will be able to do it if you just turn up,” Kristie warned.

In the almost four years since it was first launched, only five out of about 150 people have completed the challenge – with not one winner in the last six months.

Of the people who have finished it, the quickest time was 11 minutes and 12 seconds by YouTube entertainer Adam Moran, a competitive eater behind the Beard Meets Food persona.

“As far as I’m aware he has also travelled the furthest to try it – having come down from Leeds!” said Kristie, who has run the cafe for almost nine years.

Although the challenge leaves most with stomach cramp, for some it is a badge of honour that has seen them return to give it another go.

One determined big-eater has been beaten by the huge meal four times.

“Most people struggle with the bread, although there’s been a few that have been very close but have just run out of time,” Kristie added.

She said the challenge was inspired by popular US television programme Man vs Food which originally involved show host Adam Richman touring the country taking on challenges set by restaurants.

Kristie said: “I used to watch Man vs Food on YouTube all the time and thought it would be fun to create a version for the café.”

Recently KJ’s has been featuring on Facebook the photos of how challengers fared.

Kristie said there has been “a huge boost in interest and people taking it on in the last few months” – but admitted there has also been some criticism about the potential waste of food.