The Iowa Beef Industry Council and Iowa Cattlemen’s Association released a map of contenders, with the 2026 winner due to be announced on 1 May.
Finalists highlighted in the report include Dixie’s Biergarten in Decorah, Salsa Guy Cafe in Cedar Rapids, Prairie Canary in Grinnell, The Landmark Bistro in Grundy Center, Northside Diner in Washington and B52 Bar & Grill in Bennett.
The annual contest spotlights burger restaurants across Iowa, spanning styles from smash burgers to diner and pub burgers, and gives statewide exposure to the shortlisted businesses.
How do beef industry challenges and conservation efforts shape the future of Iowa’s restaurants and burger traditions?
With smashburgers dominating Iowa’s Best Burger contest, is this a sign of changing tastes or just a fleeting trend in the state’s food culture?