CONCORD, N.C. (April 2, 2026) – Throughout March, diners in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, savored and voted on limited-time specialty burgers from 25 local restaurants during the sixth annual Cabarrus Burger Madness. After 31 days of sizzling competition, 2025 winner Lee’s Sandwich Shop has been named this year’s champion!

The “Lee’s Burgerizza Mama Mia!” featured two 4-ounce pesto garlic marinated hamburger patties with melted cheddar cheese in between. The burger was topped with house-made marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, along with a choice of toppings including grilled onions and peppers, mushrooms, black olives, pepperoni and jalapeño bacon served on grilled pita bread and garnished with Parmesan cheese.

“What began as a way to support our local restaurants during a difficult season has transformed into a culinary event worth traveling for,” said Donna Carpenter, Cabarrus County CVB President and CEO. “This initiative is a success thanks to the creativity and dedication of our local eateries and the overwhelming enthusiasm from our community and visitors. We appreciate everyone who joined in on the fun and can’t wait until next year.”

With 25 mouthwatering burgers to choose from, the 2026 competition offered the most options to date, including creations from four returning champions and four restaurants entering for the first time. Collectively, participating restaurants sold 9,500 specialty burgers! Passholders from 14 states utilized the free mobile pass to track their culinary adventure.

The Cabarrus County CVB introduced Cabarrus Burger Madness in 2021 to support local restaurants amid the pandemic. Six years in, the friendly competition remains a highly anticipated month-long event for the unique burgers and community spirit it generates.

Cabarrus Burger Madness will return in March 2027. In the meantime, visitors and residents alike are encouraged to explore everything the destination’s dining scene has to offer and support local restaurants year-round. Information and inspiration for places to eat in Cabarrus County can be found at ExploreCabarrus.com/eat.

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Additional photos are available here.

About the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau
As the official destination marketing organization for Cabarrus County, North Carolina, the CCCVB is dedicated to promoting Cabarrus County as a visitor destination and enhancing the complete visitor experience. We also represent and support the interests of the local tourism industry and promote public awareness of the importance of tourism. For more, visit CabCoCVB.com or connect with Explore Cabarrus on social media.

About Cabarrus County, NC
Cabarrus County is in south-central North Carolina in the Piedmont region, about 30 minutes north of Charlotte. The area encompasses five municipalities: the cities of Concord and Kannapolis, and towns of Harrisburg, Midland and Mount Pleasant. Known as a hub of engaging experiences, Cabarrus County is home to premier motorsports entertainment, shopping, family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, historic sites, charming downtowns, and more. Visit ExploreCabarrus.com to learn more.

Media Contacts:

Julie Hinson
Cabarrus County CVB
JulieHinson@ExploreCabarrus.com
704-575-9379

LOU HAMMOND GROUP
Cabarrus@LouHammond.com