The widely anticipated and celebrated burger showdown in the heart of New York City continues, where the marriage of beef and buns creates a night of burger indulgence like no other. Now in its 16th year, this iconic event, known for its succulent burger experiences, is a highlight of the Festival.
Hosted by the esteemed TV personality and accomplished author, Rachael Ray, this gathering brings together burger aficionados for an evening of live music and a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline at Pier 86, home to The Intrepid Museum.
As the stars twinkle overhead, attendees savor more than 25 of the finest burger creations in New York City, all made with Pat LaFrieda’s distinctive burger blend. These delectable burgers are complemented by classic sides, sweet delights, and refreshing beverages, including Blue Moon beer, wine, and spirits courtesy of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
The burning question of the evening: Who will claim the title of this year’s burger champion, patty prince, or heavyweight burger maestro?
(Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for NYCWFF)
(Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for NYCWFF)
Renowned chefs are engaged in a fierce battle, competing for two coveted awards: the Judge’s Choice Award, decided by a panel of celebrity judges, and the highly sought-after People’s Choice Award, which will be determined by YOU, the event’s attendees. Among the distinguished judges are:
- Luann de Lesseps
- Jessica Hircsh
- Nadia Carerina Munno
- Dan Pelosi
- Eric Sedño
- Marco Medici
(Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for NYCWFF)
(Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for NYCWFF)
We voted for the best burger and so did the judges…the unanimous winner was MEL’S BUTCHER BOX. Truly the perfect burger – it was hard not to vote for them as the favorite.
(Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for NYCWFF)
The burgers we tried were all so good and you can’t help but wonder how can one burger be made in so many different ways. Well, it can and that’s exactly what was proven that evening. From the spicy burger from GupShup to the BBQ burger from Sally’s Southern & BBQ, there was something to tickle everyone’s tastebuds.
The participating talent was as follows –
- Miguel Aguilar from Surfish Bistro
- Carol Becker from William Greenberg Desserts
- Dough Doughnuts
- Peter Botros from Sally’s Southern & BBQ (they came 2nd place in the People’s Choice awards)
- Fabio Casella from San Matteo
- Fleetwood Covington from Seagar’s South Walton in Florida
- William Djuric from Balkan StrEAT
- Jason Eksterowics from the NY Mets (because who doesn’t love a good juicy burger while watching baseball?)
- William Gauger from THE BARONESS burgers and beers
- Nicolas Geeraerts from Tulum Tacos & Tequila (this was a fun twist on the burger with tacos!)
- Markus Glocker from Koloman
- Sol Han from Little Mad
- John Karangis from Shake Shack
- Zahir Khan from GupShup (My vote and a personal favorite)
- Melanie Landano from Mel’s Butcher Box (THE WINNERS)
- Jae Lee from Nowon
- Lior Lev Sercarz from La Boite + Spice Brothers
- Nicolas Lopez from Leña at Mercado Little Spain
- Brian Rand from Bastard Burgers (these were SO good too – I think we tasted Mac & cheese in there too)
- Jimmy Rizvi from GupShup as well
- Smashed Burgers
- Virginia’s
