Local Favorite and Newcomer Triumph at South Beach Burger Bash
The 2026 Burger Bash, a highlight of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, saw remarkable performances from both local favorites and newcomers. This year marked the 25th anniversary of the festival, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees and competitors.
Champion Burger Creations
The event featured entries from various locations, including Ohio, Oakland Park, and newcomers like Dick Mondell’s Burgers & Fries. Among the seasoned competitors were past winners such as Skinny Louie and Pincho.
People’s Choice Award
- Winner: La Birra Bar
- Signature Burger: Crispy Dubai
- Ingredients: Wagyu beef patties, white American cheese, crispy onions, Argentinian chimichurri mayo (nicknamed “mayochurri”), and black truffle
Renzo Cocchia, co-owner of La Birra Bar, expressed elation with their second consecutive win. He highlighted that this burger also clinched the 2026 World Burger Championship title in Dubai, with the black truffle symbolizing luxury.
Judges’ Choice Award
- Winner: NFA Burger
- Location: Dunwoody, Georgia
- Signature Burger: Billy’s Classic
- Ingredients: Smashed cheeseburger with mustard, pickles, homemade seasoning, and Sassy Sauce
Chef and owner Billy Kramer, who started his venture in a gas station, was emotionally connected to his recipe. After experimenting with 19 different seasoning combinations, he created Billy’s Classic, which he described with excitement.
Event Highlights
This year’s event featured prominent judges, including restaurateur Matt Kuscher, comedian Bert Kreischer, and model Ashley Graham. The atmosphere was lively, with a packed tent where attendees enjoyed burgers, drinks, and dancing.
Hosted by culinary personality Rachael Ray and Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, the Burger Bash celebrated the dedication of all culinary teams involved. Ray expressed gratitude towards the chefs who worked tirelessly over the flames.
Community Impact
The event served not just as a culinary competition but also as a celebration of the local food community. Bill Kramer credited local experts like Sef Gonzalez, known as Burger Beast, for their support and guidance.
The South Beach Wine & Food Festival continues over the weekend, supporting the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University. This year’s Burger Bash has proven to be a feast of excellence, with both local favorites and newcomers leaving their mark at this beloved event.
