Fuego 505 wins green chile cheeseburger challenge in Albuquerque
Fuego 505 won the blind judging round of the Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge at the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque. Eight restaurants from across the state competed in the contest, which featured both blind judging and a people’s choice vote.
Badlands Burgers and Brews from Aztec, New Mexico won the people’s choice award. La Villa Burgers and Boba from Santa Rosa took second place in the blind judging competition. Fat Sats of Belen placed third.
Judges evaluated the entries on flavor, taste, seasoning and freshness, among other components. “I’m looking for flavor, taste, seasoning, components of texture, freshness, everything,” said Isleta Grill Chef and Judge Leticia Romero, whose restaurant won last year’s challenge.
Romero advised this year’s competitors to take chances with their entries. “Don’t be afraid to try new things, step out of the box just a little bit and try it,” she said.
KRQE’s David Romero served as one of this year’s judges.
The full list of competitors:
- Fuego 505, Albuquerque
- Effingbar, Albuquerque
- Sparky’s, Hatch
- Stackers Burger Company, Albuquerque
- Badlands Burgers & Brews, Aztec
- Fat Sats, Belen
- La Villa Burgers and Boba, Santa Rosa
- Smash and Shake, Albuquerque
