Fourteen restaurants across Oxford County are putting their creativity to the test this November, all while raising money for United Way Oxford.
The third annual Ultimate Burger Battle runs from November 1 to 30, giving residents a chance to sample some unusual burger creations while supporting programs and services in their own communities. Last year's competition raised $20,000, and organizers are hoping to build on that success.
Megan Porter, Resource Development Coordinator with United Way Oxford, says participating restaurants have embraced the opportunity to experiment with their menus.
Fourteen restaurants are participating this year, including five in Woodstock, two in Ingersoll, two in Tavistock, and one in Thamesford.
Four Tillsonburg restaurants are also joining the competition: Chrissy's Catering at the Carriage Hall, Boston Pizza, The Mill, and The Copper Mug.
Local burger fans may remember that Chrissy's Catering won Tillsonburg's inaugural Best TillsonBURGer competition in August, taking home the Golden Cowbell Trophy. The Mill was also among the competitors in that event, held during the Party 'Til the Cows Come Home festival.
It's a delicious way to support the community! Every Ultimate Burger sold during November generates a two-dollar donation to United Way Oxford.
Porter says the proceeds will help support the organization's work throughout the county.
United Way Oxford currently supports 18 organizations delivering 52 programs across the county, helping residents facing a variety of challenges.
The competition also gives participating restaurants an opportunity to attract new customers during November, while encouraging residents to explore dining options in neighbouring communities.
Who makes Oxford County's ultimate burger? Residents can get involved by picking up a Burger Battle Passport to keep track of the participating restaurants they've visited. They can also vote for their favourite creation in the People's Choice competition through the United Way Oxford website. A separate team of community ambassadors will visit participating restaurants and evaluate their burgers using a common scoring system. Their results will determine the Ultimate Burger of the Year, with winners announced after the November competition. And, while the judging team has its work cut out for it, Porter has set herself a personal challenge.
She wants to sample every burger in the competition.
Whether residents are planning to try all fourteen burgers or simply enjoy one at their favourite local restaurant, the Ultimate Burger Battle offers a chance to support Oxford County businesses and the community programs that benefit from the fundraiser.
And as Porter points out, there's no shortage of reasons to get out and enjoy a meal during the month.
The Ultimate Burger Battle runs November 1 through 30.
Details about participating restaurants and People's Choice voting are available through United Way Oxford at unitedwayoxford.ca
