New York Beef Council Searching for the Best Burger in the Empire State

Nominations are open for the 10th annual competition to crown the top burger in New York

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:05pm

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The New York Beef Council, a non-profit organization focused on promoting beef consumption, is holding its 10th annual competition to find the best burger in New York state. Nominations are open now through March 14th, with the top 10 finalists then put to a public vote from March 18th to April 10th. The winner will be announced on May 13th, 2026 in time for May Beef Month celebrations.

Why it matters

The New York Beef Council's annual burger competition is a way to celebrate the state's thriving burger culture and support local restaurants and beef producers. With strict criteria around the burger composition, the competition aims to highlight the creativity and quality of burgers served across New York.

The details

To qualify, burgers must be 100% beef, though other ingredients like spices, vegetables, and sauces can be added. The burgers must be served on a bun or other bread product. Last year's winner was The Butcher's Son Corning's "Ghost Burger" made with two grass-fed beef patties, candied jalapeños, jalapeño basil pickles, provolone cheese, and BBQ sauce.

  • Nominations are open through March 14, 2026.
  • Public voting on the top 10 finalists will run from March 18 to April 10, 2026.
  • The winner will be announced on May 13, 2026.

The players

New York Beef Council

A non-profit organization funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program, aimed at increasing beef demand, strengthening consumer trust, and promoting the sale of beef and veal.

The Butcher's Son Corning

The restaurant that won last year's competition with their "Ghost Burger" made with two grass-fed beef patties, candied jalapeños, jalapeño basil pickles, provolone cheese, and BBQ sauce.

Chrissy Claudio

The Director of Consumer Engagement at the New York Beef Council.

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What they’re saying

“This competition is a great way to celebrate the incredible burgers being served across New York. We encourage everyone — from consumers to cattle producers — to support their favorite local burger spot by submitting a nomination!”

— Chrissy Claudio, Director of Consumer Engagement, New York Beef Council

What’s next

The top 10 finalists will be announced on March 18th, and public voting will run through April 10th to determine the winner, who will be revealed on May 13th during May Beef Month celebrations.

The takeaway

The New York Beef Council's annual burger competition is a celebration of the state's thriving burger culture, supporting local restaurants and beef producers while highlighting the creativity and quality of burgers served across New York.