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Arkansas Beef Council Launches 2026 Best Burger Contest
Statewide competition to find the state's top burger returns after a two-year hiatus.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:31pm
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The Arkansas Beef Council's statewide burger competition returns, celebrating the state's culinary talent and locally-sourced beef.Little Rock TodayThe Arkansas Beef Council has announced the return of the Arkansas's Best Burger Contest, a statewide effort to identify the state's top burger. The competition, which was last held in 2024, will accept submissions from restaurants across Arkansas starting in May 2026, with the winner set to be crowned in July.
Why it matters
The Arkansas's Best Burger Contest is a long-running promotion by the state's beef industry to highlight local culinary talent and boost awareness of Arkansas-raised beef. After a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the contest's return is expected to generate excitement among burger fans and support small businesses in the state's food service sector.
The details
Restaurants across Arkansas will be able to submit their burgers for consideration starting in May 2026. A panel of judges will evaluate the entries based on criteria like taste, creativity, and use of Arkansas-sourced ingredients. The winner will be announced in July and receive prizes including media exposure and promotional support from the Arkansas Beef Council.
- The Arkansas's Best Burger Contest will accept submissions from restaurants starting in May 2026.
- The winner of the 2026 contest will be announced in July 2026.
The players
Arkansas Beef Council
A non-profit organization that promotes the state's beef industry and supports local cattle ranchers.
What’s next
The Arkansas Beef Council will begin accepting submissions for the 2026 Arkansas's Best Burger Contest in May 2026, with the winner to be announced in July.
The takeaway
The return of the Arkansas's Best Burger Contest is a win-win for the state's beef industry and local restaurant scene, generating excitement among burger fans while supporting small businesses and showcasing Arkansas-raised beef.
