Meet the Boca Burger Battle Contenders Competing for
Best Burger in Florida
Welcome to the Battle for Best Burger—where top chefs from South Florida compete for the ultimate burger crown at the annual Boca Burger Battle – A Grilling Affair! This sizzling competition, taking place on Saturday, July 11th, showcases the region’s best burger restaurants. Each is battling it out for the coveted titles of Judges’ Pick for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Best Grill Master, as well as the People’s Choice Award for Best Battle Burger in Florida.
Our 2026 Battle for Best Burger contenders represent top burger joints from Boca Raton, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Lake Worth, Oakland Park, Pompano Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and beyond. Each chef is carefully selected for their passion, creativity, and commitment to delivering mouthwatering, battle-worthy burgers.
Whether you’re craving a classic hamburger, a cheesy cheeseburger, or a bold, over-the-top creation, the Battle for Best Burger lineup promises something for every burger lover. Many of these chefs use the competition as their test kitchen—creating and perfecting new burger recipes that aren’t even on their menus. From juicy ground beef patties stacked high with cheddar cheese and signature fixings, to savory sandwiches piled with bold toppings, you’ll get the first bite of these one-of-a-kind burgers—hot off the grills and into your hands.
This is your chance to taste the most flavorful, tasty, and downright hearty burgers in South Florida—crafted exclusively for the Battle for Best Burger.
Florida’s Top Burger Contenders from Cities Across the State
The Battle for Best Burger showcases chefs from cities all across Florida. Many represent multiple locations, bringing their creative burger recipes from places like foodie hubs in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and West Palm Beach—making this the ultimate Florida burger showdown.
2025 People’s Choice Winner – Best Battle Burger
The Vault Restaurant & Bar – Where Elevated Dining Meets Coastal Charm
Located just steps from the ocean in Pompano Beach, The Vault Restaurant & Bar is redefining the local dining scene with a menu that fuses classic American flavors and modern culinary creativity. Known for its stylish, speakeasy-inspired interior and vibrant bar atmosphere, The Vault offers guests a unique escape from the ordinary.
Led by a passionate culinary team, The Vault is committed to using premium ingredients and bold techniques to craft memorable dishes—from elevated comfort food to inventive takes on coastal favorites. Whether you’re joining them for happy hour, weekend brunch, or a night out with friends, The Vault serves up an experience that’s as flavorful as it is unforgettable.
As one of Pompano Beach’s rising stars, The Vault is quickly becoming a must-visit for food lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With community roots and culinary flair, they’re ready to compete for the crown at this year’s burger showdown.
2025 3rd Place Judges’ pick Best Grill Master
Welcome to The Cove Waterfront and Tiki Bar, where the good times flow as freely as our cocktails. Our waterfront restaurant sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway and is the perfect spot for a fun and casual dining experience with friends, family, or hey, maybe even a romantic evening out. With a laid-back, fun atmosphere and an amazing selection of craft cocktails, frozen drinks, wines, and thirst-quenching beers, you’ll never want to leave.
Whether you choose to sit inside or outside, or prop up at the Tiki Bar, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the Marina and waterway. And on those warm Florida evenings, our outdoor tiki bar and seating area is the perfect spot to unwind, or let loose and have a good time.
The Cove Waterfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar
1754 SE 3rd Ct, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 | 954.421.9272 | Web
Located in The Cove Shopping Center
2023 & 2024 CHAMPION 1st Place Judges’ pick Best Grill Master
Yard House – Raising the Bar, One Burger at a Time
Known for their massive beer selection and bold, chef-driven flavors, Yard House is a national favorite that never plays it safe—especially when it comes to competition. Their Boca Raton team brought serious heat to the Florida Tacos, Wings & Desserts Battle in April, earning 2nd Place Judge’s Pick for Best Taco Master, a strong showing that built on their already-impressive culinary reputation.
But that’s just one chapter in their ongoing winning streak. Yard House is also the back-to-back Judge’s Pick Champion for Best Grill Master, clinching 1st Place in both 2023 and 2024. This year, they’re returning to defend the title with a brand-new burger creation—crafted to impress the judges, wow the crowd, and keep their winning legacy alive.
With over 100 beers on tap and a menu that pushes the boundaries of American cuisine, Yard House is more than a restaurant—it’s a flavor experience. Expect big taste, bold moves, and burger greatness from this decorated contender.
Located in Mizner Park, downtown Boca
2024 – 3rd Place Judges’ Pick for Best Grill Master
We have a long-standing tradition of hospitality in the Simms family and have gathered the knowledge and traditions of three generations to create something we hope will be a special place for you and your family. As a kid, I treasured my time spent enjoying the Rocky Mountains and now, more than ever, I cherish the time I get to spend there with my family. I’ve always wanted to find a way to share that small mountain town vibe. Inspired by unplanned adventures, an enduring love of food and fireside conversations, Lazy Dog was created to do just that.
We have sourced ingredients from places and farmers we love and respect. Each ingredient we use is carefully picked and prepared. We make every meal by hand each day, including all of our sauces, marinades and dressings. We also have a seasonal menu, which is our ode to the current season, and where we celebrate Mother Nature’s beautiful bounty the best way we know how. If you have any questions or feedback about our menu, please don’t hesitate to share them with us. I hope we will be your home away from home! We are so happy you are here. – Chris Simms, Founder
Located in Uptown Boca
2025 People’s Choice Winner – Best Florida Tacos
Chef Moises – Back-to-Back Battles, One Delicious Mission
With over 20 years of culinary experience, Chef Moises is no stranger to the heat of competition. His journey began in 1996 with Marriott at their Dadeland location, and he quickly rose through the ranks, earning accolades in chef competitions across the brand. For the past decade, he’s led the kitchen at the Boca Marriott, where his bold flavors and creative flair have made him a standout in the local culinary scene.
In April, Chef Moises wowed guests at the Florida Tacos, Wings & Desserts Battle, taking home the coveted People’s Choice Award for Best Florida Taco.
Now, he’s back and ready to fire up the grill — this time with his sights set on impressing the crowd once again. With a burger creation crafted to stand out, Chef Moises is bringing bold flavor, culinary passion, and a competitive edge to this year’s burger showdown.
Fueled by passion and proven by the people, Chef Moises is cooking for the crown once again!
Located in Shops at Boca Center
Simple eats, tiki bar drinks, toes in the sand while watchin’ the waves. Add some palm trees for shade and our laid-back vibe… We welcome you to Lucky Fish Beach Bar & Grill! Our slice of oceanfront paradise is the south side of the new Fisher Family Pier along North Pompano Beach Boulevard. Whether you are looking for a place to grab a meal to picnic on the beach or sit with friends to relax over food and drinks, Lucky Fish is always the right place and the right time.
Lucky Fish is a first-come, first-serve restaurant. We are not currently accepting reservations. We invite you to join the waitlist upon arrival and enjoy a drink at the bar if there is a wait. We look forward to serving you soon and thank you for visiting us!
Located Beachfront in Pompano Beach | Oceanfront Restaurant
Executive Chef Adonis Steel | Banter & Treehouse
Downtown West Palm Beach is home to one of the city’s most vibrant culinary destinations: Canopy by Hilton, a boutique hotel that blends local artistry with elevated hospitality. Inside this stunning hotel, you’ll find Banter, a chic ground-level eatery, and Treehouse, a rooftop oasis offering panoramic views of the city skyline and Atlantic Ocean.
At the helm of both restaurants is Executive Chef Adonis Steel, whose culinary journey spans California’s wine country to the kitchens of Michelin-starred chefs. Chef Adonis draws upon classical French training and a passion for Caribbean-inspired cuisine to create dishes that are as bold as they are beautiful.
Banter delights guests with locally sourced, West Palm-inspired dishes and cocktails. Their standout Breakfast Bacon Burger, stacked with aged cheddar, crispy bacon, secret sauce, and a sunny-side egg, is a weekend brunch favorite.
Treehouse, perched 13 stories high, offers a Florida Fusion menu designed for sharing — featuring fresh ingredients, hand-crafted cocktails, and a vibrant rooftop vibe. On weekends, it transforms into the ultimate lounge with top DJs and an unbeatable sunset view.
Canopy’s participation in this year’s Burger Battle brings together world-class culinary skill, artistic ambiance, and a commitment to local flavor. With Chef Adonis leading the charge, Banter and Treehouse are ready to serve up something extraordinary.
380 Trinity Place, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401 | 561.655.0404 | Web
🌱 First-Year Contender
Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar is led by Head Chef Anthony Rodriguez, a Brooklyn-born culinary talent who brings passion, heart, and big-city flavor to every dish he creates. A married chef with a deep love for food and family, Anthony spends his free time experimenting with new cuisines, playing basketball, watching movies, and listening to music. When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a classic slice of pizza or a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak — but his signature dish in the kitchen is Shrimp & Grits.
Anthony’s culinary journey began at Universal Studios’ Pastamore, where he discovered his love for Italian cuisine while working as a prep and line cook. He continued honing his craft at LeMay’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza, then expanded his leadership skills at Red Robin and Maggiano’s Little Italy. His career took an exciting turn at Phyre Tavern & Brewery, where he served as Head Chef — brewing beer and thoughtfully pairing it with his dishes — before refining his specialty as Senior Pizza Chef at Paradiso Pizza. Today, Anthony leads the kitchen at Calypso, where he started as a line cook and worked his way up through dedication, creativity, and leadership, with the ultimate goal of one day opening his own restaurant.
🌱 First-Year Contender
The Boca Smash – West Boca’s Craveable New Smash Burger Spot
The Boca Smash is one of West Boca Raton’s newest burger obsessions — and this year, they’re bringing their craveable smash-style creations to the Boca Burger Battle for the very first time. Tucked along State Road 7, this local favorite has quickly built a reputation for burgers that are equal parts simple and unforgettable.
So what makes a Boca Smash burger so good? It’s all in the technique. Each patty is smashed thin on a screaming-hot griddle, therefore the edges crisp into those crave-worthy lacy ridges while the center stays juicy. Add soft, pillowy buns and bold house toppings, and you’ve got a burger built for serious flavor. Leading the kitchen is Chef Mario Arraez, who’s firing up an original creation made especially for the Battle.
Of course, The Boca Smash is about more than burgers. Additionally, guests can cool down with hand-spun shakes and fresh-made churros — the perfect sweet finish to a savory bite. As a first-year contender, the team is ready to prove that West Boca’s newest smash spot belongs in the conversation for Best Burger in Florida. Don’t miss your chance to taste their debut creation — for one night only.
Located on State Road 7 in West Boca Raton
🌱 First-Year Contender
Lucky Lou’s Raw Bar – Coastal Flavor Hits the Battle for the First Time
Lucky Lou’s Raw Bar is a vibrant coastal restaurant in the heart of Deerfield Beach — and this year, they’re bringing that energy to the Boca Burger Battle for the very first time. Known for fresh seafood, raw bar specialties, handcrafted cocktails, and 19 TVs showcasing all the big games, Lucky Lou’s has quickly become a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Now under the culinary leadership of Executive Chef Joseph Bellanti, Lucky Lou’s continues to elevate its menu with bold flavors, creative dishes, and a guest-focused dining experience. For the Battle, Chef Bellanti has crafted a brand-new burger recipe built specifically for this competition — a championship-worthy creation you won’t find on the regular menu.
“We’re incredibly excited to participate in this year’s Boca Burger Battle and showcase a burger worthy of championship bragging rights,” the Lucky Lou’s team shared. Therefore, get ready to taste their debut creation — for one night only.
🌱 First-Year Contender
Jack’s Old Fashion Hamburgers – Five Decades of Burger Tradition, Now in the Battle
Since 1972, Jack’s Old Fashion Hamburgers has been doing burgers the right way — and this year, they’re bringing that legacy to the Boca Burger Battle for the very first time. What began as a local favorite has grown into a South Florida institution, uniting generations of burger lovers over simple, honest food and unforgettable flavor.
So what sets Jack’s apart? It starts with the beef. Their meat is ground fresh daily, in house, then cooked to order and built with quality ingredients on every burger. Additionally, each location features a topping bar proudly displayed right in the dining room, where guests dress their burgers exactly how they like — piled high with house-made relishes and fresh toppings.
Today, Jack’s serves up that old-fashion goodness at two South Florida locations, one in Pompano Beach and one in Fort Lauderdale. Every bite reflects more than 50 years of dedication to great burgers, therefore the Jack’s crew isn’t backing down from the competition. For their Battle debut, they’re firing up a creation built to honor the classics while staking their claim on the title of Best Burger in Florida.
Jack’s Old Fashion Hamburgers
591 S Cypress Rd, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 | 954.942.2844
4201 N Federal Hwy, Oakland Park, FL 33308 | 954.565.9960 | Web
🌱 First-Year Contender
Chef Michael Borrello – Executive Chef | 26° Brewing Company
At just 30 years old, Chef Michael Borrello has already built an impressive culinary career driven by a lifelong passion for great food and unforgettable dining experiences. As Executive Chef at 26° Brewing Company, Michael brings together creativity, precision, and bold flavors inspired by years of experience in diverse kitchens — from high-volume corporate operations at Disney to family-owned restaurants where hospitality and personal connection come first.
For Michael, cooking has always been about more than preparing a meal. Because he believes food has the unique ability to bring people together, spark conversation, and turn ordinary moments into lasting memories. Whether celebrating life’s biggest milestones or simply enjoying a great burger with friends, his goal is to create dishes that leave a lasting impression.
Making his Boca Burger Battle debut, Chef Michael has crafted an all-new, original burger recipe created exclusively for this year’s competition. Therefore, with confidence in his creation and a passion for bold, unforgettable flavors, he’s ready to compete for the coveted Best Grill Master title — and earn your vote for People’s Choice Best Battle Burger.
Additional BITES! provided by:
2025 Judges’ Pick – Best Dessert Master
2025 People’s Choice Winner – Best Florida Dessert
SweetLipz Desserts will be sampling their favorites at the Battle — and you can purchase items to take home to enjoy!
SweetLipz Desserts
SweetLipz Desserts is bringing its award-winning sweets to the Boca Burger Battle — and their mission is simple: deliver comfort-food desserts that keep you coming back for more. Because they run both a storefront and a mobile dessert service, SweetLipz serves up high-quality homemade treats that don’t just satisfy your sweet tooth, but your sweet lips too!
Located in Pompano Beach, FL, SweetLipz Desserts brings more than 10 years of baking experience, plus over three years in the mobile dessert industry. Additionally, they’re dedicated to fresh, gourmet, feel-good desserts and baked goods made fresh every day.
On the menu: Pound Cakes, Red Velvet Cakes, Triple Layer Black, Carrot Cakes, Jumbo Brownies, Colossal Cinnamon Rolls, their FAMOUS Banana Pudding, and cheesecakes in flavors like Strawberry, Banana Pudding, Red Velvet, French Vanilla Crunch, Mango, and Key Lime. Therefore, save room for Muffins, Donuts, Buttermilk Berrylicious Blueberry Cornbread, Danishes, SweetLipz Frozen Drippers (with fresh fruit) — and so much more!
Why the Battle for Best Burger is South Florida’s Favorite Culinary Showdown
The Battle for Best Burger isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of South Florida’s vibrant food scene. Every year, chefs bring their A-game, pushing the limits of creativity and flavor. Judges evaluate based on taste, presentation, toppings, bun integrity, and originality. Guests vote for the People’s Choice Award with the wooden chip they receive alongside their Battle Cup upon entry.
Want to see who’s taken home the crown in the past? Check out our past Burger Battle champions to see who’s taken home the title in previous years!
What to Expect at the Longest-Running Burger Battle in Florida
🍔 Unlimited Burger Tastings – Sample creative burgers from every contender in the Battle for Best Burger.
🍟 Bites Beyond Burgers – Enjoy a variety of sides, desserts, and additional bites prepared by select chefs.
🍻🍷🍹 Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits – Don’t miss the Boca Burger Battle Beverages page for details on the unlimited beverage offerings at the event.
🎶 Live Entertainment – Dance the night away with live music as you eat, drink, and vote for your favorite contender.
🗳️ Your Vote Counts – Guests at the Battle for Best Burger cast their vote for the People’s Choice Best Battle Burger in Florida.
🔥 Get Your Tickets Now – Don’t miss this unforgettable Boca Raton event. Grab your Boca Burger Battle Tickets today for unlimited burger tastings, bites, drinks, and fun!
Note: Food participants may change without notice. Fan favorites may not be available for the full duration of the event!
Event Photos from the Best Burger Battle in South Florida
10th Annual - 1st Place Judge's pick for "Best Grill Master" Yard House - Truffle Burger
10th Annual - 2nd Place Judge's pick for "Best Grill Master" Burtons Grill & Bar
10th Annual - 3rd Place Judge's pick for "Best Grill Master" Tucker Duke's
10th Annual - People's Choice pick for "Best Battle Burger" Papamigo's
Photo of Children's Giving Foundation check presentation
Photo of 10th Annual Boca Burger Battle Chefs
