Iowa’s Best Burger Contest Returns for 2026, Celebrating Iowa Beef and Local Restaurants

The Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) are proud to announce the return of the Iowa’s Best Burger Contest, inviting Iowans to once again celebrate the state’s favorite beef dish while supporting local restaurants across Iowa.

Now in its 17th year, the Iowa’s Best Burger Contest has become a highly anticipated tradition that connects consumers, cattle producers, and the foodservice community through a shared love of high-quality beef. Each year, thousands of nominations pour in from across the state as Iowans cast their votes for burgers that stand out for flavor, creativity, and quality.

“Iowa’s Best Burger is a fun, grassroots way to highlight the beef raised by Iowa cattle producers and the restaurants who proudly serve it,” said Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. “The contest brings people together, encourages diners to explore local restaurants, and celebrates the role beef plays at the center of the plate.”

A Boost for Local Restaurants

Restaurants recognized in the contest often see increased attention from new and returning customers, with many noting a noticeable uptick in burger sales during and after the competition. From small-town cafés to neighborhood favorites in larger communities, the contest shines a spotlight on the diversity of Iowa’s restaurant scene.

How the Contest Works

The Iowa’s Best Burger Contest is open to restaurants across the state that serve burgers featuring a 100% real beef patty on a bun or bread product.

• Nominations Open: February 9, 2026
• Nominations Close: March 9, 2026 at 5 p.m.
• Top Ten Announcement: March 13, 2026, during WHO Radio’s The Big Show
• Winner Announced: May 1, 2026, kicking off May Beef Month in Iowa

Consumers can nominate their favorite burger at www.iabeef.org. Restaurants with the highest number of nominations advance to the Top Ten, where finalists are evaluated through a secret taste test conducted by contest judges.

Restaurants are encouraged to promote their participation using in-store signage and social media. Downloadable promotional materials are available at https://www.iabeef.org/events/best-burger-contest, and diners are encouraged to share their burger experiences using #IABestBurger and tagging @iowabeefcouncil.

A Celebration of Beef and Community

The Iowa’s Best Burger Contest highlights the strong connection between Iowa’s cattle producers and the restaurants that serve high-quality beef to consumers every day. By voting, Iowans play an active role in supporting local businesses while celebrating a product that Iowa is proud to produce.

For contest rules, nominations, and promotional resources, visit https://www.iabeef.org.

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About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: The Iowa Beef Industry Council is funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program and the $0.50-per-head Iowa State Beef Checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information, visit www.iabeef.org.

About the Iowa Cattlemen's Association: The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 8,000 beef cattle producer families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef cattle industry. ICA’s mission is to “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership, and education.” www.iacattlemen.org.