Hard Rock International has announced the five finalists for its annual World Burger Tour competition.

Hard Rock Cafe chefs from around the globe were challenged to develop culturally-inspired, unique burger recipes and were mentored by chef, content creator and brand partner, Olivia Tiedemann, to finesse their delicious creations. Guests, burger lovers and travelers alike can now experience a world tour by simply visiting their nearest Hard Rock Cafe, including Hard Rock Cafe Manchester, to try the top five finalists in the World Burger Tour.

Each burger has been influenced by authentic local flavours that represent Hard Rock’s diverse cafe and hotel destinations. The 2025 World Burger Tour finalists are: 

  • Sweet & Smokey Burger from Hard Rock Cafe New York; 2 Smashed Burger Patties, Fried Cheesecake Bite, Monterey Jack Cheese, Bacon, Garlic Aioli, House-Made BBQ Sauce, Smokey Onion Frizzles, served with Seasoned Fries.  
  • Condal Burger from Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona; 2 Smashed Burger Patties, Manchego Cheese, Smoked Paprika, Spicy Mayo, Chorizo Jam, Bacon, BBQ Sauce, Pickles, served with Seasoned Fries. 
  • Budapest Burger from Hard Rock Cafe Budapest; 2 Smashed Burger Patties, Pulled Pork, House-Made Plum Jam, Cheddar Cheese, Truffle Mayonnaise, Arugula, served with Seasoned Fries. 
  • Basilico Burger from Hard Rock Cafe Milan; 2 Smashed Burger Patties, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Roma Tomatoes, Herb Aioli, Leaf Lettuce, Fresh Basil, served with Seasoned Fries. 
  • Clash of the Titus Burger from Hard Rock Cafe Tampa; 2 Smashed Burger Patties, Smoked Gouda Cheese, Bacon Jam, Garlic Aioli, Crispy Shoestring Onions, Sliced Avocado, Bacon Jalapeños, served with Seasoned Fries. 

"The burgers these Hard Rock Cafe chefs have curated are seriously impressive,” said Olivia Tiedemann. 

“Each one has two smashed patties (my favourite way to make a burger!) and creates this amazing flavour experience that's both satisfying and totally unexpected visitors will love them." These top five smashed burgers received the most orders for their fun ingredients and creative twists on traditional recipes, earning each its place on Hard Rock Cafe menus worldwide before the ultimate winning burger is crowned on September 5th. 

“At Hard Rock Cafe Manchester, we are embraced by the deep-rooted love for Manchester, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene and passionate football culture,” said Aneta Jarzmik, General Manager, Hard Rock Cafe Manchester. 

“We’re delighted to bring our guests on a culinary journey to experience global flavours from our cafes and talented chefs from around the world.” 

Walk-ins are welcome but bookings are advised and can be made through the Hard Rock Café Manchester website.