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AMES, IOWA – Iowans submitted nominations between February 11 – March 11 to kick off the quest to find the best burger in Iowa. Nominations were accepted online by the Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. The number of votes each restaurant received determined the 2019 Top Ten restaurants. The restaurants making the Top Ten list (in alphabetical order) include:

• Ankeny Diner, Ankeny *
• Dotzy’s Restaurant and Saloon, Elgin
• Landmark Restaurant, Williamsburg
• Morgan’s Corner Bar & Grill, Ottumwa *
• Rides Bar & Grill, Fort Dodge *
• Robin’s Nest Café and Bakery, Clarinda *
• Saucy Focaccia, Cedar Rapids *
• The IowaStater Restaurant, Ames *
• The Twisted Tail Steakhouse & Saloon, Logan (Beebeetown) *
• and Wood Iron Grille, Oskaloosa.

Seven of the contestants have returned to the Top 10 list from previous nominations over the past few years, including the Robin’s Nest Cafe/Bakery in Clarinda, and The Twisted Tail in the Logan/Beebeetown area. (* indicates returning contestant)

To qualify, the burger must be a 100% beef patty or patties, although other ingredients may be added such as spices, and served on a bun or bread product. Burgers may include any combination of condiments, sauces, cheese or toppings.

The quest for the winner of the Iowa’s Best Burger will now begin. All Top Ten restaurants will be visited by a panel of anonymous judges who will evaluate the burgers based on taste, appearance, and proper doneness (160 degrees Fahrenheit). The judges’ scores and comments will be accumulated and the winner will be crowned on May 1.

To learn more about the contest and the Top Ten restaurants, including addresses and hours, visit www.iabeef.org. Last year, Café Beaudelaire of Ames took home the title of the 2018 Iowa’s Best Burger.