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The passion and the patties

A sandwich thrown together more than 120 years ago that is arguably the world’s most recognizable menu item
71048westernstar08_28Finleys
The offering from Finley's is part of an eight-burger competition.

It’s a staple of the North American diet. A sandwich thrown together more than 120 years ago that is arguably the world’s most recognizable menu item.

Think of the word “hamburger” and it’s likely your vision is different than the person standing next to you. That’s because individuals and restaurants have taken the simple concept of meat slapped between two halves of a bun to entirely unique and tasty levels.

Nelson is rich in its dining choices. There are few towns of our size that offer such a great variety of quality experiences. Yet, in this eclectic mix the burger can be found on almost every menu.

Earlier this summer the Nelson Star and {vurb} started a quest to find Nelson’s best burger. In a website contest we have been asking readers to vote for their favourite creation amongst the eight participating restaurants — Bogustown, Rel•ish, bite, Finley’s, the Hume Hotel, Jackson’s Hole and Grill, Uptown Tavern and Kootenay Time Burger Emporium. The votes have been rolling in and on September 7 we will announce the winner on the front page of {vurb}.

It may be a very Canadian thing to say, but this contest is not really about winning. Over the last few weeks, Star reporter and {vurb} editor Megan Cole has been profiling the burgers on Page 3 of the paper. Cole has introduced the entries in the contest, but more importantly she has captured the personalities of those behind the patties.

In describing their entries, the eight restaurant owners have enthused about what makes their burgers the best. If you have been following along, it’s that passion that really wins the day. Knowing that we have restaurateurs in this community who care so much about what they deliver helps us understand just why this community’s eatery options are so great.

Voting for the contest closes on Saturday. Head to the contest tab at nelsonstar.com to make your choice. And while you’re there, click on the business tab to find the eight profiles. It’s there you will discover the ultimate winners of Nelson’s Best Burger.