You know that burger you order every time you go out? The one that you just crave throughout the week? Well now’s the time to share that hunger with others and give it and also the restaurant the full recognition it deserves. The Wisconsin Beef Council has kicked off their inaugural Wisconsin’s Best Burger Contest.
The contest is designed to seek out and promote 100% beef burgers prepared in Wisconsin restaurants. Individuals may nominate their favorite beef burger from a Wisconsin restaurant (one nomination per person) on the Wisconsin Beef Council website. Nominations will be accepted through midnight on Sunday, March 24, 2024.
“We’ve seen firsthand how these events boost business and bring attention to the incredible culinary talent we have here in Wisconsin,” said Kaitlyn Kesler, Director of Communications. “Expanding to a statewide competition allows us to celebrate the entire state’s burger offerings and foster even more connections between restaurants, farmers, and consumers.”
The elite eight restaurants that receive the most nominations will be announced in early April. A secret panel of judges will travel to each restaurant to evaluate the burgers. Burgers will be scored on taste (50 points,) appearance (30 points,) proper doneness (10 points,) overall enjoyment of the burger (10 points,) and bonus points may be given for eating environment, atmosphere and experience (up to 5 points.) The winning restaurant will be announced on May 1 to kick-off May Beef Month.
To be eligible for the contest, the hamburger must meet the following guidelines:
- The burger must be 100% beef (other ingredients may be added to the patty such as spices, vegetables, etc.)
- All burgers must be composed of a formed ground beef patty/patties served on a bun or other bread product. These can include biscuits, focaccia or tortillas. Burgers may include any combination of condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard. They can also include sauces such as barbeque or hot sauce, cheeses and other toppings.
- Every component of the burger must be placed between the bun or served open-faced on a bread product.
- Burgers must be available on the nominated restaurant’s regular menu, and the restaurant must be open year-round. A restaurant may only win Wisconsin’s Best Burger Contest one time.
