The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) kicked off National Pork Month by revealing the five Iowa restaurants vying for this year’s best breaded pork tenderloin. 

The finalists are Ludlow’s Steakhouse in Corydon, Main Street Bar & Grill in Massena, St. Olaf Tavern in St. Olaf, 5th Quarter Bar & Grill in Van Meter and Lid’s Bar & Grill in Waukon.

The IPPA received 4,812 nominations for 449 establishments this year in the annual quest to find the state’s juiciest, most flavorful tenderloin. Judging of the top 40 contestants, comprised of the five restaurants with the most nominations in each of IPPA’s eight districts, took place this summer. Judges anonymously visited those locations and scored the tenderloins based on pork taste and quality; physical characteristics; and presentation.

The first and second-place winners will be announced later this month.