GREEN COUNTY — After a one-year hiatus, the county’s tastiest competition is back. Beginning May 1, the Green County Beef Producers will hold its annual 3-month long best burger contest.

“We just think people are ready to go out and try some new things,” said Nellie McDermott with the Green County Beef Producers.

This summer, 13 local restaurants will partake, including defending champion Buggyworks Restaurant and Pub, located just off the Square in downtown Monroe. In 2019, Buggyworks’ “We Curd You Love Bacon Burger” was named the county’s best burger.

Also back this year is Minhas Kitchen, which was second in 2019, and Bullet’s Restaurant, also in Monroe.

There were over 2,000 burgers sold in 2019 at 15 different restaurants, with 1,200 people voting. 

“A lot of people visited all the restaurants,” McDermott said.

This year there are 13 restaurants participating, each putting forth one burger into the contest. Monroe, Brodhead and Juda all have restaurants featured this year.

Patrons can get post cards to cast their vote at any of the 13 establishments. Prizes are handed out to those who submit their voting cards. Stamps are required in order for a chance to win a prize in the form of gift cards and beef bundles. Presentation, appearance and taste are all criteria for judgment.  

“There are some really fun burgers this year,” McDermott said. “One has pineapple, another with eggs. There’s habanero and bison.”

Winners will be chosen Aug. 19 during the annual steak-out. The winning burger will get the giant silver spatula as a trophy. 

Follow Green County Beef Producers on Facebook for more information.