The Reader’s Award for 2011 Best Burger in Orlando goes to newcomer Oblivion Taproom and the Tap Room at Dubsdread wins the Critic’s Choice Award.
Nearly 3000 votes were cast in the poll conducted by Scott Joseph’s Orlando Restaurant Guide. Readers also left comments stating why they voted for their favorite and offering “write in” candidates that had not made the final ballot.
The poll was not without controversy. There were charges of ballot box-stuffing, and one of the owners of Hamburger Mary’s, which received the second most votes, asked to be removed from the contest amid accusations of voter fraud. Indeed, Oblivion and Hamburger Mary’s each received hundreds more votes than the other 10 contenders, a list that also included Ravenous Pig, K Restaurant, Crooked Spoon food truck and Johnny’s Fillin’ Station.
The flog’s poll feature includes safeguards that restrict anyone from voting more than once. However, it is possible for someone who is computer savvy and has a sad home life to circumvent the restriction. You’ll find this is true of any web-based voting on any site, major publications included.
But what still makes it all worthwhile is that many legitimate votes were cast, and many of you left passionate notes of praise. I’m sure that even the overvoters took notice of some of the comments and may be moved to try something new. And I have to say that I’ve had burgers from all the contenders, and each one has merit. That’s why I’m not upset to see the prize go to Oblivion. But, I still think Tap Room at Dubsdread does a superior burger, and has for many years. Here’s hoping that Oblivion can keep up the good work for as long.
Although the poll has been removed, you can still read the comments people left at this link. You also may leave a comment there or here.
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