Downtown Partnership Announces Champion of Inaugural Downtown Burger Battle
Following a month of extraordinary turnout, dedicated taste-testing, and hundreds of community votes, Downtown Partnership of Mankato/North Mankato is proud to announce Rounders Sports Bar & Grill as the official champion of the first-ever Downtown Burger Battle!
Throughout August, food lovers flocked to sample custom creations from 13 downtown Mankato and North Mankato establishments. The Maui Wowi burger, featuring a seasoned beef patty, pepper jack cheese, sautéed jalapeños, lettuce, grilled pineapple, spicy peach BBQ glaze, and bacon, earned top honors after diners rated their experiences online based on flavor, presentation, and overall creativity.
“We were blown away by the incredible response to our first-ever Burger Battle,” said Joy Leafblad, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Downtown Partnership. “Our participating restaurants went above and beyond with their unique creations, and the community enthusiasm was outstanding. This event showcased the incredible culinary talent we have right here in downtown Mankato and North Mankato.”
The inaugural event brought a significant surge in foot traffic to local businesses throughout August. Participating restaurants included The Atomic Star Tavern, Bun Jovi Burgers, Flask, Fusion Five, The Loose Moose Saloon, Maverick’s Sports Grill, NaKato Bar & Grill, Nolabelle Kitchen + Bar, Number 4 Steakhouse, Pub 500, Rounders Sports Bar & Grill, Spinners Bar & Grill, and Ummie’s Bar and Grill.
Downtown Partnership extends a sincere thank you to event sponsors Performance Foodservice of Minnesota and Radio Mankato, as well as every diner who came out to support local eateries.
Save the Date: Mark your calendars for even more culinary celebrations! Keep an eye out for the third annual Greater Mankato Restaurant Week, happening March 8-14, 2027, hosted by Visit Mankato in partnership with Downtown Partnership.
