Burgers face off to be named the best in the UK

Two South East restaurants which started during lockdown have had their burgers shortlisted for a prestigious award.

The National Burger Awards has named 16burgers as finalists from across the country, including The Gazza from Roddy Burger in Tunbridge Wells and the Boring Burger from the restaurant of the same name in Guildford.

Judges will choose the 2025 winner on Tuesday following a day-long cook-off in London.

Jamie Kuhl, Boring Burgers' head chef, said: "It's like the Oscars for burgers."

Boring Burger was started in lockdown by Mr Kuhl, who came from a high-end food background.

He said he had waited for the opportunity to cook for the title after being a reserve finalist in 2023.

"It's great for Guildford as well. It's a great thing for Surrey," he added.

He will be making The Boring Burger, which is one beef patty with dirty sauce, dill pickle, iceberg lettuce, bacon and American cheese.

The head chef said his secret was using good quality ingredients and making everything in house.

Roddy Burger was also started in lockdown, by Tunbridge Wells local Richard Oddy after he was made redundant.

He said his secret was using the best ingredients, working hard and keeping things simple.

The head chef and owner will be making The Gazza at the event in London, which is a double cheese burger on a brioche bun, with smoked streaky bacon, homemade pickled onion and his own burger sauce.

He said: "I'm nervous and excited. I have never done anything like this before."