Second Sacramento Burger Battle Set for Sept. 18

Burger lovers from around the region will convene on Raley Field this fall for a charitable event to benefit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America.

The second-annual Sacramento Burger Battle, organized by Elk Grove resident and blogger Rodney Blackwell, will feature 15 chefs vying for title of best burger.

"I’m excited to see what burgers will be presented, and especially what returning competitors have in store for the judges and guests,” a press release quoted Blackwell as saying.

The inaugural Sacramento Burger Battle in 2012 raised more than $27,000 for the foundation; Blackwell's daughter was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when she was 5.

Last year, Rocklin-based Chef's Table won the championship belt and food truck-turned-restaurant Krush Burger won the people's choice award.

One of this year's competitors is Elk Grove-based food truck Papa Dale's Drivin' Diner. Others include de Vere's Irish Pub, West Sacramento-based Broderick Restaurant and Bar, and more.

Tickets start at $55, and are $5 off through Wednesday.

The full press release follows:

Ticket sales have now opened for the 2013 Sacramento Burger Battle, which will be held at Raley Field on Wednesday, September 18 at 7 p.m. During the month of July, both general admission and VIP tickets will be $5 off regular prices. Tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster or at the Raley Field box office.

Prices start at $55 and include burger samples, drinks and side items from vendors, and parking. For $75 guests can purchase a VIP ticket, which includes early admission to the event and a raffle ticket.

Competing restaurants include 2012 champion Chef’s Table and People’s Choice winner Krush Burger. They will be met on the field of battle by returning contenders de Vere’s Irish Pub and Ettore’s, as well as newcomers Roxy Restaurant and Bar and Bacon & Butter. The remaining competitors will be announced over the weeks leading up to the event.

The winner of the 2013 Sacramento Burger Battle will be chosen by a panel of judges that includes food writer Chris Macias, award-winning chefs Patrick Mulvaney and Randall Selland, and Rick Mindermann from Corti Brothers. The competitor with the best burger will receive the custom-made belt presented to last year’s victor and will go on to represent Sacramento in the Burger Division at the World Food Championship in Las Vegas later this year. The People’s Choice award will be given to the competitor with the most votes by event guests.

The inaugural event in September 2012 raised more than $27,000 for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) through ticket, merchandise, and raffle ticket sales.

Conceived by nationally ranked burger blogger and Sacramento resident Rodney Blackwell, the Sacramento Burger Battle is designed to showcase the local food and dining scene as well as raise money for CCFA. “I’m excited to see what burgers will be presented, and especially what returning competitors have in store for the judges and guests,” says Blackwell.

To stay updated on the latest news regarding competitors and vendors, as well as special announcements, follow Sacramento Burger Battle’s Facebook Page and Twitter account, or sign up for the free e-newsletter at sacburgerbattle.com