The Downtown Abilene Burger Brawl is back for its third year, bringing friendly competition, bold flavors, and a boost of energy to Downtown Abilene. Beginning Wednesday, January 15, seven downtown eateries will go head-to-head for the title of 2026 Downtown Abilene Burger Brawl Champion.
The Burger Brawl was created three years ago with a simple but meaningful goal: to support downtown businesses during the slower period following the holidays. At a time when foot traffic traditionally dips, this initiative was designed to encourage locals and visitors alike to dine downtown, discover new favorites, and make a positive economic impact in the heart of our city.
The Burger Brawl is a project of the Downtown Abilene Initiative, which is part of the Abilene Regional Growth Alliance, an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. This year’s competition is proudly presented by Optimum.
How the Burger Brawl Works
Stamp cards will be available beginning Wednesday, January 14, at participating restaurants, the Chamber of Commerce, or the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau (1101 N. 1st St.). The competition officially runs from January 15 through February 15.
Participants are encouraged to visit the competing downtown restaurants, try their featured burgers, and collect a stamp for each burger sampled. One burger equals one stamp, and a minimum of two stamps is required to cast a vote.
Completed stamp cards must be turned in by Monday, February 16, at 5:00 p.m. Cards may be submitted at participating restaurants, the Chamber, or the Convention & Visitors Bureau. The winning restaurant will be announced on Downtown Abilene social media.
Participating Downtown Restaurants
This year’s Downtown Burger Brawl competitors include:
Bogie’s Downtown Deli
Caitie Pies
Cypress Street Station
Gloria’s Grill
Grain Theory
The Ice House at LSDG
Smokehouse Abilene
Community members and visitors are encouraged to take part in this fun and flavorful competition to help support our local downtown restaurants while enjoying some of the best burgers Downtown Abilene has to offer.
👉 Learn more about the competition and each participating burger:
https://www.downtownabi.com/burger-brawl/