This place gets right to the point. Great greasy burgers with that crisp, chargrilled texture on the outside but still juicy on the inside. Also had the fried okra which was delicious. Can't wait to take my fiancé there this weekend. My new go-to burger joint. read more

Top Notch. An Austin legend. That pretty much sums it up. When you step inside the restaurant, you're immediately transported to the 1970s--the good times--and not to the parts that are forgettable. To good service and straight up food delivered by honest folk. Despite having lived here for 35 years and having graduated from a nearby high school for which Top Notch was home turf, today was my first visit. You see, Top Notch was always someplace I meant to go, but I always had too many other "better things" to do. It was never a destination, it was merely along the way. Then, a couple of weeks ago, time stopped. Top Notch's light went out. And it seemed Top Notch would be no more. But we have been lucky enough to get a reprieve. Let's hope it lasts a good long time. Enough sentimentality. Nom nom time. With a line at least ten patrons deep, I patiently waited for my turn, taking a look over the menu for the first time ever, wanting to make it memorable. I selected the #3 with a large order of onion rings and a small soda. About 10 minutes later, my number 35 was up. After procuring ketchup at the bar in the famous little paper cups, I returned to my table. The #3 was thicker than some recent 1/4 pound burgers I'd had, and the meat was top quality. Yes, it was sloppy cheeseburger with special sauce and onions heaven. (Cue nom nom sound effects). Onion rings were very good, although they seemed slightly overcooked (but definitely not greasy). It was only upon retrieving my food I thought about not having gotten a shake. But the Barq's Root Beer was just fine, and, honestly, I don't know where I would have put the shake away. As I left, I thanked the spry little lady at the counter for her service today. She told me she was glad I enjoyed the meal and hoped I would return. I told her I sure hope I can--someday soon. read more

This Austin Icon has some of the best burgers in town and hands down the best onion rings in town... heck, some of the best onion rings I've ever had! I've tried the fried chicken, as well, when the boy ordered that and it was pretty darn tasty and really fresh, as well. I can't believe I've waited this long to try it! Tried it a couple of weeks ago and have already shared the yummy goodness that is Top Notch with my boy. Look forward to taking the family for the summer movie and a burger. read more

The big sign out front hints that time has stood still in its shadow. One step inside and the promise is made good with an authentic retro vibe. So far, so good. Burgers are cooked on a charcoal flame grill right behind the counter, giving them what Burger King would call "flame broiled" taste. The BK reference may be facile, but useful: Thin beef patties cooked over an open flame yield a sandwich whose taste can't help but invite comparison. This is no assembly line, mass-produced burger, though. Ours hit the grill while we were still at the counter and were on our table in short order. Fries were standard thin-cut specimens; a chocolate malt had excellent flavor and consistency. Big plus points for great charcoal flame flavor and cooked-to-order freshness. Friendly service and the well-preserved retro atmosphere add to make this a well-above-average burger experience. read more

Top Notch - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

This was the first burger joint I tried when moving to the neighborhood. Call me crazy, but I actually found the burgers average tasting. I felt forced to give a two star rating as an attempt to balance our an over inflated average star rating. I was able to taste the smokiness of the burger, so while it is better than a fast food joint. It's not even on the same level as Hopdoddy or P Terrys. read more

This place is really classic. They have flame broiled burgers which makes a huge difference in flavor. They're also not overpriced. French fries are good and the onion rings are very crispy. I come here often for the burgers read more

Top Notch - French Fries & Onion Rings - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Not knowing that this place is historical and where many films have showcased the traditional drive up stands (ie "Dazed and Confused") I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived to be greeted by the famous Top Notch sign along the road. This is definitely a classic drive-in style restaurant with a ton of preserved memorabilia inside and out. Its located a bit outside of the downtown Austin area and close to the university so beware of students. Came here alone looking for an authentic fast-food experience. Had a classic cheeseburger with fries and small fountain drink. The burger was standard, thin but retained a juicy bite with a fryer-meaty flavor and dressed with the works (lettuce, tomato, onion). The fries were a sad story: thin, over salty and obviously frozen to deep-fryer. They also weren't too hot which definitely would have made a better impression. The price for food/drink is average and staff were ok, nothing worth mentioning. The old-fashion, traditional Top Noch decor was cool but nothing here made me feel like I would go out of my way to come back. Kinda a one-time event. read more

Top Notch - Respecting history - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

THIS PLACE IS AN AUSTIN CLASSIC!! Was actually used to shoot some of the scenes in movie "Dazed & Confused" and they have some of the memorabilia inside on display. It's 1950's drive-in diner style with the original menus and everything. All the burgers are grilled over an open flame and everything is made to order. I would highly recommend to a tourist, local, or anyone looking to try an Austin original with a great selection of great fast food! read more

If you are from austin and you don't like top notch - what is wrong with you?!? Also.. during the school year, Monday through Friday 3-5 $1 shakes and corn dogs!!! Best shakes on this side of town! Burgers are bomb and it's just classic. read more

The carhop asked for a tip b4 I even received my order! They shorted my order one piece of chicken. I'm never coming back. read more

I love chargrilled burgers because it reminds me of my childhood memories. I ordered the classic burger and fries and onion rings. The onion rings were seasoned perfectly and with just the right amount of batter! The burger was tasty, and had a good chargrilled taste which distinguished itself from other burger joints around Austin. My only complaint is that it is pretty dim inside the burger joint; very dark and definitely not a nice atmosphere to be in. read more

Top Notch has become a staple in our house. The burgers, fries, and onion rings are the bomb! Especially the onion rings. Haven't tried anything else- the burgers are too good! read more

Mmmmm, greasy cheeseburger and yummy tots! Yes please!! It's a classic greasy spoon. They also have wonderful fried chicken. I am always greeted by friendly staff and it's pretty quick. I just get their basic cheeseburger when I go. For a sweet treat you can work on clogging your arteries by ordering a fried cherry pie...mmmm mmmm so good! read more

I love this place! Their onion rings are so good, wow. Their fries are up there, one of my fav places to get fries. Burgers are good, reminds me a little of whataburger (which I love). However, I think something's up with their grill. Both times I've gone, burger patties slightly have a strange taste, like burned? But not? Idk how else to describe it. But I got over it after a few bites and I haven't died or gotten sick yet :D Chocolate malt is good, very thick. My friend got the veggie burger and said it could give P. Terry's veggie burger a run for it's money. read more

This is my favorite burger in Austin. Char-grilled. Who else even does them this way anymore? And tater tots. If those two points do anything for you, this is the place. read more

My first time to eat here. I really wanted to try the chicken fried steak. I have to say I'm really not impressed. The batter is more for a fried fish, made with a gritterier meal. The gravy was good, French fries good and I got some okra all good. However the okra was not made in the same batter which surprised me so probably out of a bag (I don't care they were good). Next to try is a burger. I'm just not getting a chicken fried steak here. Sorry guys. Posting an update menu since there's not one online. read more

Top Notch - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

I wanted to eat here so bad for months because everyone would tell me its so good, soni finally came only to encounter some of the rudest staff ive ever met, this made me not even want to eat here anymore before getting my food, but i still got my food for it to be wrong im so disappointed read more

The service was good, food was DELICIOUS and ready quickly. Ole-timey/vintage vibe was cool with drive-in, booth seating, and they have a cute photo booth inside. They seemed to take pride in cleanliness, which was a huge tell/plus. Will def be back again! read more

Top Notch - Forgot to take a picture of my double Lonestar burger & wine to wash it down! Lol But my son and his dad also gave their milkshake 5 stars! - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

Fast and friendly. Was not my personal favorite burger, but could definitely tell the smokiness.

I decided to try out Top Notch one day since I had purchased the Groupon. I had passed by it many times and this seemed like a good opportunity to stop in. I like the idea of the car hop but it was kind of confusing. I pulled into the thing but no one was in their vehicles. I didn't want to be THAT person to use it so I went in. It was pretty busy inside. I felt like I had stepped back in time. I had no clue what to get. I strongly dislike having to order each item ala carte. I just feel like burgers should always come with fries. I also feel like some of the items are a bit pricey. I ended up getting the veggie burger and a side of fries. I had a little left over on my Groupon so I got the fried apple pie. Since it was so busy there was a wait time. I was pretty hungry so I didn't want to wait but nonetheless I did. I took my food to go and couldn't wait to get home and dig in. I was very impressed with the veggie burger. I actually felt like I was eating a real burger. It was char-grilled to perfection. Yummy! The fries were good too. I can do with the fried apple pie. There wasn't much apple about it. Just a fried thing with a touch of apple. Not impressed. I would go back here again and even more so if they had a groupon deal again. Random note: parents should not let their kids try to get ketchup when they can't reach the bin to get the ketchup or fill the little container. I had to watch this little girl struggle and she couldn't talk and wasn't responding when I offered to help. Its annoying. read more

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Top Notch still make a great burger. The indoor charcoal grill is still turning out great burgers. But the rest of the place has gone downhill. On the last two visits, we've had burgers prepared incorrectly, which used to be unusual for Top Notch. On our last visit, in addition to the incorrect burger, the tater tots had taken a turn for the worse. They weren't as crispy as usual and had a taste of stale grease. While the staff were friendly, they were also already cleaning up and starting to shut down about an hour before closing time. Between that and their constant socializing among themselves, we felt significantly less welcome than usual. read more

Classic hamburgers. You want a 70s retro foodie experience "Top Notch" is the place. I gave the whole menu high praise and everything is very comforting, from their #2 Cheeseburger, fries, chili, and Fried Chicken. All worth ordering and eating over and over. read more

The food is fine, never great. Came here to say that the recent switch to one-size only sodas is disappointing. I want and will pay for a larger size. Please bring that back. read more

Placed a large order and they repeated verbatim! Everything was correct and food came out fast. Everyone loved their food even my picky eaters!!! read more

Love the chicken tenders, they have the right amount of breading, come out piping hot and are flavorful, juicy and amazing. The fries are ok, they are skinny fries which I prefer but the chicken is the show stopper. Next time I visit I am going to try the car hop ordering and they have a after school special offer for kids with discounted hot dogs and milk shakes! read more

Top Notch - Kids meal comes in a car shaped.box!!! - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

Been coming here for years and year top notch never fails to impress me, great environment and great people, today I was a little disappointed with the service the girl that took our order wasn't in the best of moods honestly, didn't say a word and spoke in a rude tone, other than that this place is awesome and has been for years I'll still come here regardless. read more

Wow, what a darn gem. P. Terry's tries for retro -- This is the real deal. I got the veggie burger and cole slaw, of course. Oh and a kid's malt. I can attest, too that the onion rings and fries are some of the best. read more

Top Notch - Veggie burger + cole slaw + a (kid's) chocolate malt! - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

Even though it is not the healthiest food in town, it's some of the best. And they try at least, there is a weight watcher option, but let's be serious, if you're eating here you better not be watching your waistline. The service can't be beat. I'm always impressed with the way I'm treated by the staff. They really know how to make you feel like your family. Top Notch is an Austin icon that has stayed true to its roots over the many years it's been open. read more

Top Notch - Glorious! - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

Top Notch has the best chili cheeseburgers in town: savory, hot, not too messy. Try not to wolf down your chili cheeseburger. Savor it. Their onion rings and tater tots are fresh from the fryer and cooked to perfection. Very much calorie-worthy. We've had great dining experience in the evenings. This is a restaurant with soul. Employees are friendly and courteous. We love that Top Notch often sponsors hot rod shows, which bring car enthusiasts, live bands, and movies. read more

Absolute perfection. Greasy heavy fattening food that doesn't pretend to be anything else. And it shouldn't. My boyfriend, vegetarian, loves their veggie burgers. I believe they fry them, darn good. Top Notch does American food right. Usually, I order their fried chicken dinner with onion rings and tater tots, get their onion rings, you're welcome. Honestly, I could eat that meal several times a day for the rest of my life -- which wouldn't be long. But, it would almost be worth the morbid obesity and eventual heart failure. Although, since they now serve beer, my liver might fail before my heart got the chance. It would be a fun race to the finish. My friend told me the dining room decor hasn't changed a bit since her first visit fifteen years ago. It is a bit thrift store and a lot Texas. The staff was friendly and the food came out fast. I'll be going again... and again... and again. read more

Top Notch - Fried Chicken Dinner, so good. - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

I ordered Long Horn burger and onion rings (about $11), LH Burger is a double cheese burger, one of the best ones I had in TX, I really enjoyed it. Awesome place! Will visit again! read more

Top Notch - Long Horn burger with Onion Rings - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

Tried the drive in on a Thursday night. Disorganized answering of order button so that ours never got answered. Finally thought maybe it was the button so changed spots. Nope. They were just busy and disorganized despite having many many employees.Then they had difficulty delivering the not that good burgers. The meat was just okay but all put together our hickory and cheese burgers (Top Notch 3) were scant and less than mediocre quality for the over $5 per burger charge. Fries just OK. Onion rings good. Vanilla shake ugh. Staff, indifferent. Not what I remember from years ago. Maybe it was because it was during the COVID19 precautions? Not going back to find out. Indifferent staff with mediocre quality does not warrant a return visit in Austin with so many choices nearby. read more

I've been coming here for 24 years. Nothing has changed. It still looks like 1971 on the inside. Usually that's a bad thing - not in this case. If you've never had the chance to eat a store made, CHARCOAL cooked, hamburger from here and you want something uniquely "Austin" - ya I'm talking to you Californians - this is a good place if your up North. They usually play classic rock on the radio but today was a treat - Country and Western - nothing newer than 1980 - the best. The Stanish's, who were the owners for 40 years and came from the Holiday House chain, used to play elevator music- I didn't care - it was part of the awesomeness that this place is. Top 2 choices here: Longhorn Burger Fried Chicken Please enjoy this Austin Gem. I'm betting it's the same place for you as it was the day the Stanish's opened in 1971, just like it was for me today. read more

Top Notch - Back of restaurant looking forward towards the kitchen. - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas

I have been going to Top Notch for burgers and everything else on their menu since I was in high school some 47 years ago. Top Notch has always had the juiciest, flavorful burgers. Whether it is a burger, a chicken fried steak sandwich, fried chicken, shrimp or onion rings, Top Notch has always delivered on quality and quantity. Today I went with a longtime friend who I had not seen in a year. I ordered another longtime favorite, the chicken fried steak sandwich. This has always been a go to choice for the tender, flavorful CFS and all the good fixin's on top. For the first time in 47 years I was disappointed. The CFS has always been too big for the bun, draping over the sides. Today it was in two small pieces that were very greasy, not well seasoned and tough as a boot. There was no way to actually take bite. Almost every time I tried to take a bite,the steak got pulled out of the sandwich because I couldn't bite clean through it. Tough, not that flavorful and greasy. I would give this sandwich 1 star. Management at Top Notch needs to look at this and in the future see to it that the steak is tenderized enough, seasoned enough and fried at the right temperature so that it is crisp not greasy. Please improve on this. I want to come back to MY Top Notch. read more

I have eaten at TOP NOTCH FOR YEARS and this was my first and only terrible experience. I ordered online but when I arrived I had to wait 15 minutes to get my food. My food was COLD. Did they put the fries in the bag an hour before when I ordered online? They were old and cold, worst I've ever had there. Whatever took them 15 minutes had nothing to do with fire, my burgers were cold and the fries were dead cold. WTF? I have been a fan and eating here FIR YEARS. I hope they get their "You know what" together. read more

Visiting Austin and by reviews thought I would give them a try. We ordered a cheese burger, fries, chili cheese hot dog burger and tater tots with chili and cheese. I would say the burger was average, the fries were cold and hard, the chili cheese dog was really good, love the taste of the grilled dog (cut in half and grilled), tots were just tots, but the chili was pretty good. I went at lunch time and they were super busy, the three was because even though they were busy they were still very friendly and it didn't take very long to get the food, which was surprising since they were so busy. read more

Since I moved in here, I was trying to find a good burger as I'm a big fan of burgers. After my research here in yelp and in the internet, I would say I found one of the best burger ever here in Top Notch. Their cheeseburger is really tasty and well cocked and don't want to eat anywhere else. My wife and son (5 years old) liked it a lot. I have to drive for 25 minutes from NW but it really worth it. read more

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Love this place, food never disappoints. Great burgers! I also recommend the tots over the French fries, because who doesn't enjoy tots.

Holy Crap! This classic Austin staple has the absolute best onion rings I've ever had plus their burgers totally rock - they are cooked over charcoal and have that Burger King-ish charbroil taste except here at Top Notch...it's the real deal. The spouse and I wandered in here with absolutely no expectations and were greeted by a petite blue-eyed gal (OK, for my fellow male Yelpers out there - that translates to "smoking hot" chick) behind the counter who helped us navigate through the extensive menu. Go ahead and order the Large Rings just to listen to her surprisingly sultry voice over the counter microphone - it's not to be missed! A strategically-placed cute girl is always appreciated but Top Notch also delivers with the absolute best onion rings - ever. My wife, a self-confessed onion ring connoisseur, cannot stop talking about them. I do not know if they use the same batter for their fish and chicken but damn, if they do, then this place could be in a category all by itself. I will update my review after I get a chance to swing by here again. Added Plus: Top Notch has movie nights! They have a funky TV-like screen painted on a wall near their drive-in section and they show some cool retro movies there on selected nights. Yet another Burnet Road gem! read more

Charcoal grilled burgers and fried treats - fries, shrimp, bone in chicken, onion rings, okra. Fantastic. Tastes like the 80's with decor to match. Friendly service and great prices! Just do it! read more

Top Notch - Fast Food Near Me - Austin, Texas