CLIVE, Iowa — Iowans, it's that time of year again: The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is inviting you to nominate your favorite restaurant for the 22nd annual Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest.
Nominations opened Wednesday and run through June 3, but choose wisely: each person is limited to only one vote.
“Iowans love their tenderloin sandwiches and there is no shortage of restaurants serving up these beloved Iowa staples,” said IPPA Marketing and Programs Director Kelsey Sutter in a statement. “The 2023 competition nearly broke 10,000 nominations, so we’re hoping to see great participation and support for Iowa’s restaurants again this year!”
To qualify, hand-breaded pork tenderloins must be part of the regular menu of a year-round establishment. Food trucks, catering businesses, concession stands and seasonal eateries are ineligible.
Recent contest winners include Cliff's Place in Manning and Lids Bar & Grill in Waukon.
After the nomination period ends, IPPA will review the top restaurants and evaluate sandwiches across the state by visiting locations in secret and trying the tenderloins.
The sandwiches will be ranked based on pork quality, taste, physical characteristics and "overall eating experience".
The top five eateries will be unveiled in October, which is National Pork Month. The overall winner will receive $500 and a plaque to display in their business.
Submit your nominations here.