High school competition often takes the form of athletics or academics. But Tuesday evening brought a different kind of contest — one centered in the kitchen.

Dayana Escobar of Fishers High School and Beckett Schetzsle of Hamilton Southeastern High School each created award-winning hamburger recipes, earning top honors at their respective schools. That set the stage for a head-to-head showdown, with taste testers deciding which burger would come out on top.

In the end, Escobar’s Pineapple Teriyaki Melt claimed the title, edging Schetzsle’s Onion & Jalapeño Smash. Dayana’s burger will be featured on the Ford’s Garage menu all May long!

The competition took place at Ford’s Garage at Hamilton Town Center in Noblesville.

I spoke with Escobar and Schetzsle, along with HSE Principal Craig McCaffrey and his wife Tracy, and Ford’s Garage General Manager Jeff Troyer. Those interviews are featured in the video linked here and below.