The search for the premier patty in the Badger State begins this week as the Wisconsin Beef Council launches its third annual Wisconsin’s Best Burger Contest.
Starting Friday, February 13, diners across the state can nominate their favorite local establishment for the 2026 title. The nomination window remains open through midnight on Sunday, March 15. All entries must be submitted through the official Wisconsin Beef Council website.
To qualify for the competition, the entry must be a 100 percent beef burger served on a bun or bread product. While restaurants may enhance the patties with spices or vegetables and add various toppings, the core of the sandwich must be ground beef. The council requires that nominated burgers be a staple of the restaurant’s regular menu and that the establishment remains open year round.
The selection process relies on community engagement. The eight restaurants receiving the highest number of individual nominations will move on to the finalist round. For businesses with multiple locations, the council counts nominations per individual site rather than as a collective total for the brand.
Once the top eight finalists are determined, an anonymous panel of judges will travel the state to sample the entries. These judges do not announce their presence or request complimentary meals. They evaluate each burger based on a 100 point scale.
Taste accounts for half of the total score, with judges looking for flavor, juiciness, and how well toppings enhance the beef. Appearance and presentation account for 30 points, while 10 points are awarded for proper cooking temperature. The council notes that a medium doneness of 160 degrees Fahrenheit is the standard for food safety. The remaining 10 points cover overall enjoyment, with an additional five bonus points available for atmosphere and the eating environment.
Because past finalists have experienced significant spikes in customer traffic, the council advises participating restaurants to prepare for increased volume throughout the spring. Under the official rules, a restaurant may only win the title of Wisconsin’s Best Burger one time.
The council encourages residents to share photos of their favorite local burgers on social media using the hashtag #WiscoBestBurger as the nomination period begins.
