Why settle for some wimpy fast-food chain burger when you have so many delicious, local burger joints to choose from? Prepare yourself, because these 10 burger joints in Iowa will make your taste buds explode.

1. The Cider House

The Cider House in Fairfield has some seriously delicious burgers and it's no surprise because they won the title of Iowa's Best Burger 2015, a yearly competition held by The Iowa Cattleman’s Association and the Iowa Beef Council.

2. Brick City Grill

Brick City Grill in Ames is very popular for their 60/40 burger, which is made of 60% ground beef and 40% ground bacon, with more bacon on top - mmmm. They won the title of Iowa's Best Burger in 2014, and they were named the Best Sports Bar and Grill 2014 by the Ames Tribune.

3. Zombie Burger

Zombie Burger in Des Moines can only be described in one word - amazing. Not only is it a cool, unique place to hang out on a Friday night, but their food is top of the line, one of the best burgers I have had - ever. My favorite is the Raygun, which is shown above. It has Monterey Jack cheese, fried jalapeños, caramelized onion, bacon, guacamole and chipotle mayo.

4. Big City Burgers and Greens

Big City Burgers and Greens, also in Des Moines, has absolutely delicious, and socially responsible, burgers. They use local meats and greens whenever possible and use organic, antibiotic and hormone free beef and free-range poultry. They are also one of Iowa’s first 100% compostable restaurants. Their work has paid off as they were named Cityview Best of 2015.

5. Edgewater Bar and Grill

Edgewater Bar and Grill in Coralville is actually part of the Marriott hotel but it's a full service restaurant anyone can visit. Their burgers are so delicious, it's worth making the trip.

6. Jethro's BBQ

Jethro's BBQ has many locations in the Des Moines area, including Ankeny and Altoona, and they are famous for their Adam Emmenecker burger. Their menu describes the 5 lb. behemoth burger as: a huge pork tenderloin and Angus steak burger, with slabs of Texas brisket, apple wood bacon and fried cheese, finished with buffalo chicken tenders. They then smother it with melted cheddar cheese and white cheddar sauce.

7. Saucy Focaccia

Saucy Focaccia in Cedar Rapids was an Iowa's Best Burger Finalist this year, so it is no surprise that they have truly delicious burgers. Some really good ones are the Bacon Mac & Cheesy Burger and the SW Spicy Burger. They have really good prices, too! You won't pay over $10 for a burger here.

8. Elm's Club

Elm's Club in Creston was also an Iowa's Best Burger Finalist this year, so you know this small town burger joint has a big taste. Definitely one to check out when you're in the area!

9. Short's Burger & Shine

Short's Burger & Shine in Iowa City is a favorite place to go for a good eat. Their burgers have strange names, but don't let that fool you, they're absolutely delicious.

10. Down Right Delicious

Down Right Delicious in Clarinda decided to use a description of their burger for their restaurant name. Their burger was also an Iowa's Best Burger Finalist this year and it's easy to see why - they are downright delicious, no pun intended.

Sorry for making you hungry... Now you will have to go out and decide for yourself which one is really the best burger!