When we think burgers, they usually start with beef and a bun – but the rules are different at theRockin’ Burger Block Party at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. You might find the beginnings of a traditional sandwich, and then the chefs are amp it up with patties like an Indian-inspired Malai Chicken Mushroom Burger or a pork slider with aji amarillo chile slaw and avocado on brioche.
They are just two of seven impressive burgers at the first party on Sept. 30 at World ShowPlace. Other parties will be Oct. 14 and Nov. 11 where all-new creations will be featured, with music and plenty of libations adding to the fun. And innovation is on overdrive as guests vote for their favorite burger. (Paleo fans, just skip the bun!)
Sept. 30 event features celebrity Chef Maneet Chauhan with that Malai Chicken Mushroom Burger. Here’s some other tasty competitors:
- STK – their famous “lil BRGs” with Wagyu beef, special sauce and a sesame seed bun
- Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant – a beer-battered burger topped with garlic aioli, tomato chutney and greens.
- Disney’s Beaches and Cream – the Sunrise Burger with chorizo, candied Canadian bacon, avocado spread topped with a quail egg and sriracha mayo on an English muffin (breakfast for dinner, anyone?).
- D-Luxe Burger – the classic Southern style: a beef burger topped with a friend green tomato, pimento cheese and Applewood-smoked bacon on a soft, sweet Parkerhouse roll.
Oct. 14 will feature Chef Alex Seidel, a James Beard finalist (with a Colorado blended lamb burger) plus six other local restaurant competitors. Nov. 11 stars celebrity Chef Jehangir Mehta (doing a mushroom-blended “Graffiti” burger) along with six others.
All three parties are 7-9 p.m. and cost is $99-$199 plus tax and gratuity. Book VIP Nosh Pit seating ($199) if you want a guaranteed table (plus you get a 15-minute start, a premium bar and a specialty cocktail). Epcot admission not included. Epcotfoodfestival.com or call 407-939-3378.
