Fuego 505 wins blind judging at New Mexico Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge
Albuquerque’s Fuego 505 won blind judging at the New Mexico State Fair’s Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge. Eight restaurants from across the state competed in the contest, which featured both blind judging and a people’s choice category.
Badlands Burgers and Brewes from Aztec won the people’s choice award. La Villa Burgers and Boba from Santa Rosa took second in that round, and Fat Sats of Belen finished third.
This year’s panel included a judge from last year’s winner. Leticia Romero, chef at Isleta Grill, returned this year to evaluate the entries.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things – step out of the box just a little bit and try it,” Romero said.
Romero described what she looked for in a winning entry.
“I’m looking for flavor, taste, seasoning, components of texture, freshness, everything,” she said.
KRQE’s David Romero also served as a judge at this year’s challenge.
The full list of contenders:
- 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
