June 4th, over 30 restaurants gathered at the Kensico Dam Plaza to serve up the best thing between a bun at the Burger and Beer Blast, part of Westchester Magazine‘s Wine and Food Festival.
Guests not only had the opportunity to vote for their favorite burger—congratulations to Coals and Billy Etzel for taking away the top title—but also the chance to try the latest culinary innovations from local chefs. The top trends in toppings this year? Aioli and caramelized onions. Many restaurants also decided to kick it up a notch this year, adding a healthy kick of spice—AJ’s Burgers offered a Buffalo chicken burger and Rye Roadhouse incorporated a little ghost pepper in their cheddar cheese remoulade. Some decided to have a little fun with the bun. Thyme went gluten-free, subbing a bun for two slices of grilled zucchini, while Westchester Burger Co. offered a pretzel bun.
The big news? Although Chef Peter Kelly’s pork belly slider was delish, the four-time Burger and Beer Blast winner was finally dethroned by Coals Pizza’s all beef burger with tequila cured bacon, cheddar and spicy cilantro sauce. Piper’s Kilt and License 2 Grill rounded out the top three (top ten list, according to the votes, below).
For some serious #foodporn, check out the slide show below, or visit IntoxiKate: Living Life Deliciously on Facebook for the full gallery of burger bliss.
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Top Ten Burgers
According to votes.
1. Coals
2. Piper’s Kilt
3. License 2 Grill
4. Souvlaki Truck
5. 105-Ten Bar & Grill
6. POW! Burger
7. Rye Roadhouse
8/9. MTK Tavern and 5 Napkin Burger (tie)
10/11. Cedar Street Grill and Memphis Mae’s BBQ (tie)
