This Hudson Valley Burger Was Just Named Best in New York State

New York Beef Council Searches For Best Burger

In March of 2026 The New York Beef Council announced they were on the hunt for something specific.

They were looking for the Best Burger in New York State, which seems like a large task, but they're the perfect organization for the job.

2026 marks the 10th year of the juicy competition and many burger joints across the state were up for the challenge.

READ MORE: NY Beef Council Searching for the Best Burger in the Empire State

The New York Beef Council is based out of Rome, New York and are a non-profit organization.

They are funded, according to their website, by the "$1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program" that aims to "increase beef demand, strengthen consumer trust, and promote the sale of beef and veal."

The Hudson Valley: Home to NY's Best Burger in 2026

To qualify as a contestant in the competition a hamburger, per the New York Beef Council website:

"must be 100% beef, although other ingredients may be added to the patty."

 

Additionally the burgers "must be composed of a formed ground beef patty/patties served on a bun or other bread products.

Condiments and spices can be added to the burger as well.

With that being said, the Best Burger in New York 2026 has been named. According to the New York Beef Council Ben's Fresh in Port Jervis, New York has taken the crown.

The award winning burger: The Empire State Burger, made up of prime beef, topped with 5-year aged Grand Reserve cheddar, espresso bourbon bacon jam, cherry pepper relish and maple aioli on a pretzel bun.

The New York Beef Council writes "Elevated, indulgent, and unforgettable" call it a "full-on flavor experience."

On social media Ben's Fresh shared the news writing:

This morning, on the steps of the New York State Capitol in Albany, Ben’s Fresh was officially named the winner of the 2026 Best Burger in New York by the New York Beef Council.

Ben's Fresh added "This competition became so much more than just building a great burger." Adding:

It became about representing Port Jervis, working with some incredible New York businesses, and creating something we could truly be proud of.

Take a look at the full statement below:

Ben's Fresh in Port Jervis Well Known For Their Incredible Menu

While the New York Beef Council might just be finding out about how good Ben's Fresh is, locals in the Hudson Valley are no stranger to the deliciousness.

Ben's Fresh has over 100,000 followers on Facebook and over 59,000 on Instagram. Needless to say, the people loves Ben Fresh.

They've created burgers like The Boardwalk Burger, a double cheeseburger with sweet peppers, hot peppers, caramelized onions, cheese, & Benny Sauce on a toasted pretzel bun) and The Holy Cow, a 1/2 pound Wagyu Burger, with bourbon-bacon jam, caramelized onions, pepper jack cheese, and smashed tater kegs on a toasted pretzel bun.

Plus, Ben's Fresh makes mouthwatering wraps and desserts that you'll be thinking about years later.

Ben's Fresh is open daily from 11 am until 10 pm, check them out at 33 East Main Street in Port Jervis.