Gold Rush Burger Battle: cooking competition features northern Black Hills’ top restaurants

The winner of the burger battle voting concludes on May 29.
Published: Mar. 28, 2024 at 12:34 AM EDT|Updated: Mar. 28, 2024 at 12:54 PM EDT

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - The Chambers of Commerce for Deadwood and Lead are running a unique competition that highlights some of the best spots to grab a burger in the northern Black Hills.

18 participating restaurants are tasked with crafting a burger that stands out from the rest. Two burgers are featured each week, and those who taste them are encouraged to vote for their favorites on the competition’s official website.

One of the competitors is Maverick’s Steak & Cocktails, a restaurant on the second floor of Deadwood’s Gold Dust Casino. Mark Kremer, head chef at Maverick’s, felt this competition could benefit customers and chefs alike.

“We’re having customers try it and vote it, which gives them a chance to see what they like and, I guess, what they don’t like,” said Kremer. “It gives all the chefs in town a chance to do something a little different.”

Kremer and the rest of his kitchen staff at Maverick’s built the Creole Burger specifically for this competition. It’s a unique cheeseburger featuring a blend of Italian and Cajun sauces.

This competition could do well in promoting the food industry in the Deadwood-Lead area, which is mostly known for casinos, mining, and historical architecture. A winner will be announced when voting closes on May 29.