Nestled in the heart of East Austin on Manor Road, Haymaker has established itself as a cornerstone of the https://haymakerbbq.com/ city’s vibrant casual dining scene. While it may look like a classic sports bar from the outside, complete with a sprawling outdoor patio and an interior lined with TVs, its culinary soul is rooted in “regionally-inspired comfort food”. Inspired by the neighborhood bars of the Midwest and Northeast, Haymaker brings a “big and burly” approach to its menu that has earned it a loyal local following.

The true stars of the Haymaker menu are found under the “Big and Burly” section. These are not your average handheld snacks; they are substantial, open-faced creations served on thick-cut Texas toast and smothered in a rich, house-made Gruyère sauce.

The namesake Haymaker sandwich is a local legend. It features house-made rare roast beef piled high and topped with a decadent combination of french fries, tangy coleslaw, fresh tomatoes, and a fried egg. It is a messy, indulgent meal that perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s hearty philosophy.

For those seeking a different protein, the Louisville Slugger is a top-tier alternative. This sandwich uses thinly sliced, house-roasted turkey breast and peppered bacon as its base. Like its namesake, it is finished with the signature Gruyère sauce, fresh tomatoes, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of savory depth.

While the open-faced classics draw the crowds, Haymaker’s menu extends into other comfort staples. The restaurant is widely recognized for its poutine, offering both a traditional version with brown gravy and a Southern-style variant featuring peppery white gravy and Wisconsin cheese curds.

Other crowd favorites include the Croque Monsieur, which can be upgraded to a Croque Madame with the addition of a fried egg, and the Horseshoe Double Cheeseburger, which takes two 1/3 lb Angus patties and tops them with—you guessed it—french fries and Gruyère sauce.

Beyond the plate, Haymaker is celebrated for its atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels “every day, for everybody,” bridging the gap between a family-friendly eatery and a lively night spot. The bar boasts an extensive selection of craft beers, with over 25 on tap and a massive bottle list that highlights many local Texas breweries.

Whether you are catching a game on one of the many screens, playing a round of pool, or lounging on the dog-friendly patio, Haymaker Austin offers a quintessential “East Side” experience. It has become such an Austin staple that a second location was even opened at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, allowing travelers to get one last taste of “Big and Burly” comfort before heading home.

Would you like to explore the full drink menu or check out upcoming events at the Manor Road location?