Papi Smash'd Burger at center stage in the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Since 1979, Orlando has hosted the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, which to-date is one of the PGA’s largest and most well attended yearly events. Since then, Orlando’s reputation as an ideal location for national sporting events has continued to grow, with visitors from around the country, and even the globe, coming to our city to enjoy their favorite sporting events. This national recognition gives our city a unique platform to showcase some of what us locals love the most, including our thriving foodie scene.  

At this year’s Arnold Palmer Invitational, downtown Orlando’s own Papi Smash’d Burger, had the opportunity to go center stage at one of golf’s most important weekends of the year to showcase why they’re one of our most beloved businesses. 

Each year leading up to the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Mastercard hosts their Foodies and Fairways competition, inviting locally owned restaurants or food establishments within 50 miles of the golf course to compete for a concessions spot during the tournament, a $10,000 grant and access to virtual small business mentorship and resources from Mastercard. Businesses are selected based on “viability and strength of business; the level of impact the business is having on its customers and employees; and its potential for growth.”  

We are proud to congratulate Papi Smash’d Burger on being selected for this prestigious opportunity. And based on the lines that trailed from their concession tent, it’s safe to say attendees at this year’s Invitational experienced why Orlando is known as one of the country’s premiere foodie cities.