Burger lovers, rejoice! The hunt for Iowa’s best burger just got a lot tastier. The Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association have revealed the Top Ten finalists in the 17th annual Iowa’s Best Burger Contest.
This year, more than 350 restaurants across the state were nominated, and over 5,400 Iowans cast votes for their favorites. The list features a mix of familiar faces and newcomers, showing that great burgers are popping up all over Iowa. The 2026 finalists (in alphabetical order) are:
- Arcadia, Polk City*
- B52 Bar & Grill, Bennett
- Dixie’s Biergarten, Decorah
- Northside Diner, Washington
- Prairie Canary, Grinnell
- Salsa Guy Café, Cedar Rapids*
- Scooters On Main, Alta
- Smash & Grab Burger Co., Knoxville*
- TCI Bar & Grill, Polk City
- The Landmark Bistro, Grundy Center
(*Returning Top 10 finalist)
“We know Iowans love beef, especially burgers,” said Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. “The Iowa’s Best Burger Contest celebrates that passion, along with the commitment of our state’s cattle farmers who raise the high-quality beef served on menus.”
To compete, each burger must feature a 100% real beef patty on a bun or bread product. Beyond that, restaurants have free rein with toppings, sauces, cheese, and other creative flair.
The next stage of the contest will put these burgers to the ultimate test: anonymous judges will visit each finalist to sample the offerings, evaluating taste, presentation, and proper doneness (160°F). The winner of the 2026 Iowa’s Best Burger will be announced on May 1, just in time to kick off May Beef Month.
Recent winners include Halftime Bar & Grill in Pleasantville (2025), JJ’s Tavern + Grill in Ankeny (2024), and Flight Bar + Grille in Huxley (2023).
For the full list of finalists, including addresses and hours, check out iabeef.org.
