Old Austin standby by asinaustin
They may answer the phone, “Martin’s,” but everyone knows it fondly as “Dirty’s.” Despite a moniker that should send diners in another direction, Dirty Martin’s Place has survived (and thrived) for nearly 75 years. In fact, the home of “Kum-Bak” burgers has been standing on The Drag longer than the majority of buildings on the nearby University of Texas campus. What’s the attraction? The burgers, of course, and the prices; a basic hamburger with mustard, pickle, onion and tomato is $2.25. (Not to mention an atmosphere that is as anti-trendy as can be found in proximity to UT.)
Love their burgers — they’re not the jacked up monstrosities you’ll see at Fuddruckers or Red Robin. These are the burgers your grandparents likely remember — you can actually taste the meat, the bun and the simple fixins.
One of the signature sandwiches is the D.H. Special ($3.10), a hamburger patty with grilled onions between slices of cheese on toast with tomato and pickle. It’s a patty melt extraordinaire. (Hmmmm. Is that really a term that Dirty’s would want to associate with?)
If that isn’t enough, they still make their own French fries ($1.45) and lightly battered onion rings ($1.75), along with freshly squeezed lemonade made by the glass ($1.50 for 20 ounces). And how many burger joints have covered parking like Dirty’s? With attributes like that, it’s no surprise that Dirty Martin’s Place has achieved longevity.
It’s worth a visit just to experience one of the last vestiges of old Austin. Ten-to-one they hit 100 in 2026.
over 4 years ago
