The Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association have announced the return of the Iowa’s Best Burger Contest, inviting Iowans to once again nominate their favorite burgers while supporting local restaurants across the state.
Now in its 17th year, the contest celebrates Iowa-raised beef and the restaurants that serve it, connecting consumers, cattle producers, and the foodservice community. Each year, thousands of nominations are submitted from across Iowa.
Kylie Peterson with the Iowa Beef Industry Council says the contest is a grassroots way to highlight quality beef and encourage people to explore local restaurants, while celebrating beef’s role at the center of the plate.
Nominations for the Iowa’s Best Burger Contest are open now and close March 9, 2026, at 5 p.m. The Top Ten burgers will be announced March 13, 2026 with the overall winner named on May 1, 2026, kicking off May Beef Month in Iowa.
Restaurants must serve a 100-percent real beef patty on a bun or bread product to be eligible. Finalists will be evaluated through a secret taste test by contest judges.
Iowans can nominate their favorite burger online at iabeef.org.