Top 10 Best NY Burgers Revealed!
"From classic favorites to creative twists, these finalists show why New York beef is unbeatable."
Utica, NY (April 2026) - The excitement continues as the New York Beef Council (NYBC) proudly announces the Top 10 finalists in the 10th Annual Best NY Burger Competition! After an incredible nomination and voting process, these outstanding restaurants have risen to the top, showcasing New York’s finest 100% beef burgers and culinary creativity.
The Top 10 finalists, selected by public vote, represent a diverse range of restaurants across the state. Each has impressed burger lovers with exceptional flavor, high-quality ingredients, and unmatched craftsmanship. The NYBC congratulates the following restaurants (listed in alphabetical order):
- Ale & Angus, Syracuse
- Ben's Fresh, Port Jervis
- Brewer Union Cafe, Brewerton
- Columbus Public House, Sherburne
- Illusive, Rensselaer
- Matteson Hotel, Ilion
- Pound Town Burger Bar, Syracuse
- Savoy Taproom, Albany
- Shelly's Deli, Endicott
- Tap It Bar & Grill, Rochester.
"We’re thrilled to highlight these outstanding burger destinations. Each finalist has earned their spot through flavor, quality, and the love they put into every burger served. It’s a delicious reminder of why New York beef is unbeatable!" stated Chrissy Claudio, Director of Consumer Engagement, NYBC.
The competition now moves into its final phase! A panel of anonymous judges will visit each finalist to evaluate their burgers on taste, presentation, and proper doneness. Their scores will determine the 2026 Best NY Burger, with the winner announced on May 13, 2026, at the New York State Capitol during the May Beef Month Celebration.
Stay updated on the competition and final winner announcement by following @newyorkbeefcouncil on social media and using #BestNYBurger.
About the New York Beef Council:
The New York Beef Council is funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information, and foreign market development to strengthen beef demand. For more information, visit www.nybeef.org.
About the Beef Checkoff:
The Beef Checkoff was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. It assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle and a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents of the dollar and forward the remaining 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.