Downtown Partnership Announces First-Ever Downtown Burger Battle Coming This August

Downtown Partnership of Mankato/North Mankato invites residents and visitors to take part in the first-ever Downtown Burger Battle, a brand-new culinary competition kicking off this Saturday, August 1.

The month-long event encourages participants to explore downtown Mankato and North Mankato while sampling unique specialty burgers along the way. Food lovers will visit up to 13 participating restaurants to try custom creations, then rate each one online to help crown the official 2026 Downtown Burger Battle Champion.

“We couldn’t be more excited to team up with our downtown restaurants for Downtown Burger Battle,” said Joy Leafblad, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Downtown Partnership. “It’s a fun way to highlight the talent, flavor and energy that make downtown Mankato and North Mankato destinations for both residents and visitors.”

Participating restaurants include 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. The event is proudly sponsored by Performance Foodservice of Minnesota and Radio Mankato.

The Downtown Burger Battle is one of several community events planned by the Downtown Partnership to support local businesses. Additional initiatives throughout the year will continue to encourage community members to shop and dine local, discover new spots, and enjoy downtown in creative ways.

For event details, participating bars and restaurants, and a list of featured burgers, visit: https://greatermankato.com/downtown-partnership/downtown-burger-battle/