Clock’s Ticking! Vote Now for Iowa’s Best Burger

Time is running out to vote for your favorite burger joint for the 16th Annual Iowa’s Best Burger Contest. With less than two weeks remaining, several Iowa restaurants are in a tight race for this year's coveted title. The contest, sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA), aims to honor the state's top burger.

"This contest is a tribute to Iowa’s 21,000 cattlemen and women who produce high-quality beef, while also showcasing the incredible restaurants that bring those burgers to life," says Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing and Communications for IBIC. "Year after year, we see firsthand how winning this title can be a game-changer for a restaurant, and we love helping drive business to communities across the state."

Whether it’s a hidden gem in a small town or a local favorite with a loyal following, every burger has a shot at claiming the top spot. Past winners have ranged from long-standing diners to innovative eateries, proving that Iowa’s burger scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Now is the time for burger lovers to rally behind their go-to spots and help them earn the recognition they deserve.

How to Vote For Your Favorite Burger

Votes are being accepted online at www.iabeef.org until 5:00 p.m. on March 10, 2025. To qualify, a burger must be made from 100% real beef, be served on a bun or bread product, and be cooked to 160°F doneness.

The Top 10 finalists—determined by popular vote—will be revealed on March 17, 2025, during WHO Radio’s The Big Show. These finalists will move on to the secret taste-testing round, where a panel of judges will decide the ultimate winner. The 2025 Iowa’s Best Burger will be announced on May 1, 2025, to kick off May Beef Month in Iowa.

Join the Conversation!

Burger lovers can rally behind their favorites by sharing photos and posts using #IABestBurger and tagging @IowaBeefCouncil on social media. Restaurants can also download a digital toolkit from IBIC’s website to promote their nomination and encourage customers to vote.

Whether you love a classic cheeseburger or a creative, flavor-packed masterpiece, now’s your chance to help crown Iowa’s Best Burger of 2025! Submit your vote today at 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.