(Des Moines) The winner of the Iowa Beef Council’s 2024 Best Burger Contest is JJ’s Tavern + Grill in Ankeny.
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.
JJ’s recently 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.
This was the 15th year for the annual Iowa’s Best Burger Contest and had the added excitement of allowing previous winners the chance to be nominated again.
The Best Burger Contest is sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association to showcase the valued partnership between Iowa’s cattlemen and food service providers through delicious burgers crafted by Iowa’s talented chefs and restaurateurs.
Michael Roberts 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.
(Photo Courtesy of Iowa Beef Industry Council)
