Pueblo Slopper Tour Crowns Colorado's Culinary King

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, March 24th 2026 at 4:53 GMT by koaa
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Pueblo's Slopper Supremacy: Annual Tour Crowns the King of Colorado's Unique Culinary Creation

PUEBLO, Colo. - The delicious debate rages on in Pueblo County as the annual Pueblo Slopper Tour is in full swing, offering residents and visitors alike the chance to crown the best version of this uniquely Coloradoan dish. The tour, which launched in 2020, has rapidly become a beloved local tradition, celebrating not just the food itself, but the strong sense of community that defines Pueblo.

This year, a record fifteen restaurants are vying for the coveted title of "Pueblo Slopper Champion," offering their own take on the iconic dish. Voting is open to the public until March 29th, giving slopper enthusiasts ample time to sample the offerings and cast their ballot on the official Pueblo Slopper Tour website. The winner will be announced on March 30th, culminating a week of culinary exploration and friendly competition.

But what is a Pueblo Slopper? For the uninitiated, it's far more than just a messy burger. The classic Pueblo Slopper consists of a steamed hamburger bun generously smothered in green chile, typically topped with a grilled burger patty, cheese (often American), pickles, and - crucially - a hearty helping of chopped onions. Variations abound, with some establishments adding their own secret sauces or unique topping combinations, but the core elements remain consistent. It's a hearty, flavorful, and undeniably messy indulgence, perfectly suited to Pueblo's blue-collar heritage.

The origins of the slopper are steeped in local lore. While the exact birthplace is debated, many credit the dish to the original Gray's Co-op grocery store in Pueblo. Legend has it that in the 1930s, a customer asked for a hamburger with everything on it, and Gray's obliged, creating what would become the slopper. The dish quickly gained popularity with local steel mill workers, providing a filling and affordable meal during the Great Depression.

Ryan Levey, the founder of the Slopper Tour, emphasizes the importance of the event extending beyond just the food. "We love this tradition," Levey stated. "It's about the food, but more than that, it's about the community." He highlights how the tour brings people together, encouraging them to explore different restaurants and support local businesses. The growing participation each year - from a handful of restaurants in 2020 to fifteen this year - underscores the increasing enthusiasm for this local culinary gem.

The tour isn't simply about finding the best slopper; it's about appreciating the individual interpretations and the passion each restaurant pours into their creation. Some restaurants offer variations like the "Spicy Slopper" with habanero chile, while others stick to the traditional recipe, preserving the authentic flavor that Pueblo residents have cherished for generations. The tour acts as a platform for these diverse offerings, allowing customers to discover hidden gems and revisit old favorites.

The economic impact of the Slopper Tour is also significant. The increased foot traffic to participating restaurants provides a much-needed boost, particularly during the slower spring months. The event attracts visitors from surrounding areas, further contributing to the local economy. The tour is often paired with other Pueblo events, like concerts and festivals, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city.

Beyond the annual tour, the Pueblo Slopper is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Social media platforms are filled with photos and videos of sloppers, attracting attention from foodies across Colorado and beyond. Several Pueblo restaurants now ship frozen sloppers nationwide, allowing those who have tasted this unique dish to enjoy it from anywhere. The city is actively embracing its identity as the "Slopper Capital of Colorado" and leveraging this distinction for tourism and marketing purposes.

So, if you find yourself in Pueblo County before March 29th, prepare to get messy! Embark on your own Slopper Tour, sample the offerings, and cast your vote for the ultimate champion. It's more than just a meal; it's a taste of Pueblo's history, culture, and community spirit.