Vibrant and rich with flavor, the Austin food scene reflects the weird personality that makes the city so endearing. One of Austin’s most unique gems, situated 10 minutes from campus, JewBoy Burgers serves customers a fusion of culture, personality and flavor like no other.
Mo Pittle, founder and owner of JewBoy Burgers, grew up in a reform Jewish household. Raised in El Paso, Pittle grew up eating classic Jewish dishes, but outside of home, Pittle immersed himself in the strong Latino culture of his city. According to the restaurant’s website, the rare fusion of cultures embodied by the young future restaurant owner garnered the nickname “El JewBoy,” which served as inspiration for the establishment’s namesake.
The giant menu on the wall offers numerous options including burgers, “non-burgers,” burritos and sides, all with silly names. The “Goyim” burger, ironically a Yiddish term used to represent non-Jews, serves up a steamed beef burger topped with savory pastrami, tangy pickles and crispy bacon with melted Swiss coating the top. The combination of meats all in one burger packs a surprising punch that satisfies any carnivore’s desires. Alongside the mountain of meat, JewBoy Burgers offers crispy latkes, a traditional Jewish potato pancake. The green chile and cheddar cheese latkes come out crunchy, rich and salted to perfection and make a perfect pair dipped in the creamy garlic “schmutz” sauce.
Those looking for a more El Paso-inspired dish can find it in the “Oy Vay Guey (Way)” burger, a classic patty topped with fiery hatch green chiles and a thick slice of pepper jack cheese. The spicy combination leaves customers satiated, though not without a stinging mouth.
The non-burger alternatives deliver just as much of a unique flavor experience. “The Magical Bean and Cheese” burrito lives up to its name, combining soft border-style refried beans, a “kiss” of schmaltz — rendered goose fat traditionally found in Ashkenazi cuisine — and creamy “JewBoy Queso,” all topped with green hatch chiles and cheddar cheese. Wrapped inside a flour tortilla, the magical dish serves up a delicious mix of flavors and textures from the border and beyond.
Connecting the two distinct cultures, both in flavor and personality, seems like a daunting task, but JewBoy Burgers truly represents a reflection of the authentic experience of Mo Pittle’s life. Passing the giant restaurant sign featuring a luchador with a Jewish star, customers entering the burger joint find themselves surrounded by pop culture decorations covering the walls. With a giant mural of Andre the Giant in action and a Jewish Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame picture, the atmosphere invites those with a fun personality and appreciation for the cultures they’re about to taste. Despite limited space inside, the vast outdoor patio provides space for customers to enjoy their meals.
The Jewish and Latino cuisines developed thousands of miles away from each other, resulting in completely different flavor profiles. Yet, JewBoy Burgers unites the two cultures under one roof with a Texas flair that keeps customers coming back. With reasonable prices, a fun-loving personality and a menu full of surprises, JewBoy Burgers stands as a must-eat Austin staple.
