Two western Iowa restaurants are among the top 10 finalists in the Iowa’s Best Burger Contest sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. Those organizations counted the nominations which were received online, via text and paper ballots. Nominations were accepted between Feb. 12th and March 17th. Among those getting the most votes, was the Elm’s Club, in Creston, and Sam’s Sodas and Sandwiches, in Carroll.

Officials say Iowans submitted more than 9,600 nominating votes. Now in its fifth year, Iowa’s Best Burger contest received nominations for 456 Iowa restaurants. All Top Ten restaurants will be visited by judges who will evaluate the hamburgers based on taste, appearance, and proper serving temperature (160 degrees).

Last year, the 61 Chop House Grille in Mediapolis took home the grand prize. Previous winners include the Coon Bowl III (2012); the Rusty Duck in Dexter (2011) and the Sac County Cattle Company in Sac City (2010).