Only one restaurant in the western half of Iowa, Scooters on Main in Alta, has been named a finalist in the Iowa Beef Industry Council’s and Iowa Cattlemen’s Association’s 2026 Best Burger contest. According to the contest’s organizers, over 350 burger joints were nominated by more than 5,400 Iowans for the 17th year of the competition. To be eligible, the submitted burger must feature a 100-percent real beef patty served on a bun or bread product. Toppings, condiments, sauces, and cheeses are not required, but they are certainly welcome to enhance the entrée’s flavor. Other restaurants making the 2026 top 10 include Arcadia in Polk City, B52 Bar & Grill in Bennett, Dixie’s Biergarten in Decorah, Northside Diner in Washington, Prairie Canary in Grinnell, Salsa Guy Café in Cedar Rapids, Smash & Grab Burger Co. in Knoxville, TCI Bar & Grill in Polk City, and the Landmark Bistro in Grundy Center. With the slate of finalists now set, a panel of anonymous judges will secretly visit each location to evaluate the burgers on taste, appearance, and doneness. Winners will be announced on May 1 to celebrate the start of Beef Month.
