Our Story

Top Notch Hamburgers and Fried Chicken has been around since Austin was just another small city on the highway. In 1971, Ray and Frances Stanish purchased Burkhart’s Motor Dining and reopened as Top Notch Hamburgers. This family operation became legendary during the Stanish’s 39 years at the helm. In 2010, the family decided to pass the torch to the new owners. Not much has changed over the years. The famous Fried Chicken, Charcoal Grilled Burgers and Hand Dipped Onion Rings still dominate the menu today.

Embracing the good old days when Car Hop restaurants were the place to be, Top Notch hosts Classic Cars and Hot Rod shows regularly. Pulling up to the speaker to order a cheese burger and a milkshake is still our customers favorite way to dine. Some folks know us as the burger joint in the movies Varsity Blues and Dazed and Confused but you can also find Top Notch in fashion magazines, tv commercials and even a few music videos. Our signage and movie references have become iconic symbols in pop culture all over the world.

Top Notch has racked up more awards and accolades than we can keep track of. Best Fried Chicken in Texas, Best Burger in the City and Iconic Business of the Year just to name a few. This recognition is always appreciated but we all know that what makes Top Notch special is the commitment to the food and atmosphere. The recipes and service style haven’t changed since the 1970’s. Top Notch still tastes and feels like home to us and 1000’s of others that grew up eating here just like we did.

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