2024 Burger Battle

The 11th Annual Sioux Falls Burger Battle kicked off on January 1, 2024, and will continue throughout the month. Whether you're a Sioux Falls newcomer or a seasoned participant, let's get you acquainted with the details. Fernson Downtown has tweaked its hours to better serve the participants and will open at Noon on Thursday and Friday. This month-long culinary event unites the Sioux Falls community in a flavorful showdown, emphasizing community, interaction, and unwavering support for local businesses, making it an exciting start to the new year for all Downtown participants!

How It Works:

Indulge in a mouthwatering burger, then cast your vote using the DTSF Digital Passport app to influence the outcome of the battle. Burger critics can assign up to five points in each of the five categories for every featured burger they savor. The burger boasting the highest average points when the battle concludes will be crowned the ultimate champion.

The experience is smooth, thanks to the specific app used for people to log their entries. Download the official app of downtown – The DTSF Digital Passport! 

Categories for You to Judge:

• Flavor: What makes the taste memorable?

• Patty: Assess the quality and preparation of the beef.

• Toppings: Are they fresh, diverse, and enhancing the overall experience?

• Bun: How well does it hold everything together without compromising flavor?

• Presentation: The visual appeal of the burger.

Wagoo Burger's Wagoolicious:

Our partner, Wagoo Burger, enters the fray with the delectable Wagoolicious that features:

• Two cheddar-crusted 100% Local Wangus Beef Patties

• Bacon Jam featuring Snow Eater Stout by Fernson Brewing Co.

• White and Yellow American Cheese

• Tomatoes, Pickles, Onions, & Lettuce

• Wagoo Signature Sauce

• Brioche Bun

The Wagoolicious, an evolution of the staple Wagoo Burger, boasts upgrades like bacon jam using Snow Eater Stout, adding complexity and a perfect sweet-to-savory balance. The burger is designed to provide a sweet start with a savory, subtly spicy finish. The bacon jam also contains a hint of honey and crushed red pepper. Additional components include pickles, white American cheese, and two cheddar-crusted burger patties for intensified beef flavor. The brioche bun, chosen for its structural integrity, ensures a great eating experience. Don't forget to pair it with a beer to elevate your experience.

Beer Pairings:

Lunch: Enjoy a burger and a brew during your workday! Order a lower ABV beer like Farmhouse Ale, Seed Series #170 (Light Lager), or Lions Paw Lager. These will still complement your meal without overpowering it. Debrief your lunch details with colleagues upon your return to the office.

Dinner: Experiment with your beer choices. An IPA like Shy Giant or Gallivant adds a touch of bitterness that harmonizes with the burger flavors. For something unique, pair the Wagoolicious with Seed Series #173 (Vanilla Coffee Ale). The softness of vanilla combined with the boldness of coffee provides a memorable experience. Personally, I can't resist recommending Farmhouse Ale again – it perfectly hits all the right notes!

Can't decide? Opt for a flight to increase your chances of finding your favorite or return for an encore performance! And, of course, remember to share your experience on social media, tagging Fernson and Wagoo Burger when you document your participation in the DTSF Burger Battle. Cheers, friends!

Words by: Cole Casper