Dirty Martin's Place Serves Up Classic Cars In Austin

AUSTIN, TX — Dirty Martin's Place along the drag is known for its burgers and milk shakes among the stick-to-your-rib fare they've been serving up since 1926. But it's also a monthly gathering place for car collectors lovingly caring for their classic vehicles with a tenderness one normally associates to child care.

Such was the case on Saturday, as car fans descended to the parking lot of the Austin fixture to display their pride and joy on four wheels. This is a regular thing for Dirty Martins at 2808 Guadalupe St., a car show staged every month not far from the University of Texas at Austin.

Massive Chevrolet cars, an Impala, bright red classic Mustang, a Corvette, a pair of Shelby Daytona coupes and more were on display under the watchful eyes of their proud owners. One older gentleman discussed with Patch the possibility of selling his 1967 Mustang to invest further in the red Corvette he brought to show off. Near retirement age, he conveyed the enjoyment he derives in continually updating the car, pointing out the features (such as a middle console) that was installed and the fresh layer of paint that was not the original coat.

At the end of the lot, a large speaker blared music invoking the era of the vehicles' heyday — Richie Valens' "Donna" was part of the mix — and one couldn't help but sing along with a kid-like smile while peering into the interior and checking under some of the open hoods. It was like being in a time warp, daddy-o.

Car aficionados who missed the spectacle on Saturday will be happy to know a car show revs up every third Saturday of the month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. And if you happen to get there hungry, check out the Dirty Martin's menu for what are arguably the best burgers in town (and reasonably priced too). There's a fully stocked bar apart from the main dining area, and what was once an open patio is now enclosed in a triangular-shaped room.

It's all sure to razz your berries.

The open patio is now enclosed, but Dirty Martin's is otherwise pretty much the way it's been since 1926. Photo by Tony Cantú/Patch staff.