I have a soft spot for old school, greasy spoons, so a visit to Nau’s Enfield Drug in Clarksville was a must. This neighborhood drug store, soda fountain and grill has around since 1951. It’s definitely a throwback to simpler times with its U-shaped counter, pink stools and retro booths which barely fit four people.
I highly recommend you step back in time with a breakfast or lunch stop at Nau’s Enfield Drug.
In Need of a Helping Hand
Lunchgoers at Nau’s Enfield Drug in Austin
Austinot articles are written to shine a little light on outstanding local businesses, so that Austinites can support their community. Originally, I wanted to write about this quaint, greasy spoon because it seemed to be frozen in time, offering reprieve from the changing Austin around us. But as I did a little research, I had another reason to share.
Those who are already familiar with Nau’s know that owner Lambert Labay began working there in 1963. He purchased the store eight years later and has been running it ever since. However, in February 2016, Lambert suffered a massive heart attack which rocked his little establishment, but didn’t keep it down.
After I learned of Lambert’s heart attack, it was even more important for me to show my support for this local business and family, and to share their story with the greater Austin community.
Ordering Made Simple at Nau’s Enfield Drug
Let me highlight again that Nau’s has been in business since 1951. Why is that year so important? Because it means they’ve been cooking up bacon, eggs and burgers for 65 years. That’s what I call a well-seasoned grill! You can imagine how a simple hamburger here can pack a big flavor. (Read our complete burger joint review from 2012.)
If you stop in for breakfast, you can’t go wrong with eggs and bacon, or a breakfast sandwich. But Nau’s really shines at lunch with shakes and burgers. I personally love combining breakfast and lunch, so I got a hamburger with a fried egg and it was delicious!
The bacon cheeseburger and banana shake are arguably the most popular menu items. And everything is handmade, even the fresh-squeezed lemonade and limeade. Just remember they don’t have a fryer, which means no French fries!
When it comes time to pay for your meal, if you don’t look closely you will miss their sign. Cnce you spot it, the instructions are simple:
- Harass your server for the check.
- Take check to the front register.
- Tip generously.
- Repeat.
Keep in mind that they can’t add a tip at the register, so bring some cash to tip your server. With the strain on the family from Lambert’s medical expenses, patrons may have noticed price increases across the menu, but you can still enjoy breakfast or lunch for under $15.
I must note that this place is a little more dilapidated than I expected, but the teenagers helping behind the counter are good-hearted. Overall, I loved my experience and food and I will continue to support this neighborhood fountain shop.
Extra Treat From Local Artist Daniel Johnston
Blogger Jessica Pino in front of the Daniel Johnston mural at Nau’s
Every Austinite and UT graduate is familiar with the “Hi, How Are You mural,” but you may not realize that artist Daniel Johnston has done it again! His latest mural, on the side of Nau’s Enfield Drug, was revealed in December 2014. It’s a great reminder to everyone that love is the answer. So don’t forget to snap a shot during your lunch break.
Nau’s Enfield Drug is located at 1115 W. Lynn St. Hours are:
Monday-Friday: 7:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m.
Saturday: 8-4:15 p.m.
Sunday: 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
@jpino9 wants to know:
What’s your favorite greasy spoon in Austin?
