From cheese curds to chip dust, burgers as big as dinner plates to multiple patty burgers, fresh veggies to cheeses, and sauces to spreads, this year’s Top 10 Iowa’s Best Burger restaurants had it all! However, only one can claim the title of Iowa’s Best Burger in 2024, and this year’s winner goes to JJ’s Tavern + Grill in Ankeny, Iowa.
Owners Rick and Lilia Romero and Michael Roberts, also the general manager, and Liberty Van Genderen, say JJ’s Tavern + Grill is about family. They have worked diligently to build this for their employees, but also want their customers to recognize the family vibe. Michael even went as far as saying they’d like it to have the television show Cheers, “everyone knows your name” feel.
The intimate atmosphere and upscale smaller space naturally lend themselves to that feel. When you go, expect to talk with Rick and hear about the inspiration for the restaurant’s name. You might get a hug from Lilia. And, Michael will be there making food recommendations along the way. Lilia said that it is rare to see owners participating in the business every day, and they are trying to prioritize that at JJ’s.
### The Winning Burgers at JJ’s Tavern + Grill
– JJ’s Smash Burger
– Brock Curdy Burger
– Jalapeno Cheddar Burger
JJ’s Tavern + Grill offers a wide selection of elevated bar food offerings. As Liberty described, there is something for everyone’s palate. The menu currently features eight smash burger selections. All look delicious, but Rick and Michael highlighted the JJ’s Smash Burger, the Brock Curdy Burger, and the Jalapeno Cheddar. Each smash burger can be a single patty or double, but for that robust beef taste, we recommend a double!
The competition and being named as a Top 10 contestant in Iowa’s Best Burger competition have already had a significant impact on their business. Since being named a Top 10 contestant on March 12, they went from selling 13 burgers a day to over 36 burgers a day.
JJ’s opened in late November 2023. They have recently added a patio for an outdoor dining experience and additional seating. Rick shared that thanks to the contest, they may consider moving up plans for a second location.
### Iowa’s Best Burger Contest
– Sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association
– Highlighting the valued partnership between Iowa’s cattlemen and food service providers
– Includes previous winners as this year allowed nominations for past champions
Michael shared that being a part of this contest and being selected as the winner was like the Michelin star for restaurants. He said that getting into the Top 10 had been his vision from day one.
“To me, a lot of restaurants are the same, just with a different name,” said Michael. “One of our goals with JJ’s was to be totally different. We wanted to focus on the quality of food, the atmosphere, and customer service at a reasonable price point.”
### About JJ’s Tavern + Grill
Located at 1975 N. Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny, Iowa 50023, the restaurant offers a range of delicious elevated bar food options. Operating hours are Sunday through Thursday – 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday & Saturday – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit their website at www.jjstavernandgrill.com for more information.
### About Iowa’s Best Burger Contest
The designation of Iowa’s Best Burger comes after a two-phase competition. The first phase is based on votes from the public, and the second phase includes a group of anonymous judges who visit each restaurant to taste-test the burger and score based on taste, doneness, and presentation. To learn more about the contest and this year’s Best Burger contest winner, JJ’s Tavern + Grill, visit www.iabeef.org.
The win for JJ’s Tavern + Grill at the Iowa’s Best Burger contest signifies not just a culinary achievement, but a mark of excellence that sets them apart in the restaurant industry. The recognition has cemented their position as a top-tier establishment and has already begun to drive substantial growth in their business.
### Call-to-Action
If you’re a burger enthusiast or simply appreciate quality food and service, make sure to visit JJ’s Tavern + Grill in Ankeny, Iowa, to experience the award-winning taste firsthand. And don’t forget to subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s Newsletter for more exciting updates and stories from the culinary world.
In conclusion, JJ’s Tavern + Grill’s victory at the Iowa’s Best Burger contest is a testament to their dedication to quality, customer service, and innovation in the culinary arts. Their unique offerings and commitment to excellence have propelled them to the top of the burger world, setting a new standard for dining experiences in Ankeny, Iowa, and beyond. Visit them today and savor the taste of success!
