> At a Glance
> – 100 years of service since 1926
> – Founded as Martin’s KumBak at 2808 Guadalupe St
> – Known for burgers, shakes, and a storied “dirty” floor
> – Why it matters: A century of local flavor and community support keeps the iconic Austin eatery thriving.
Dirty’s, Austin’s beloved burger joint, celebrated its centennial on New Year’s Day after opening in 1926 as Martin’s KumBak. The restaurant’s quirky name stems from its original dirt floors, a detail that has become part of its charm. While the celebration was modest, the owners plan a larger event for the summer.
Daniel Young said:
> “We really have to thank the community for all the support we have had all these years,”
A Century of Service
Opened in 1926 at 2808 Guadalupe St, Dirty’s began as Martin’s KumBak with a single flattop grill, an eight-stool bar and a tiny drive-through. The original dirt floors earned the eatery its nickname, which stuck even after a concrete foundation was poured in the 1950s.
Today, a century later, the restaurant still serves the same classic burgers and shakes that drew early patrons.
- 1926: Opened as Martin’s KumBak
- 1950s: Concrete foundation installed
- 2026: Celebrated 100th anniversary
Growth and Renovations
Over the decades, Dirty’s added an indoor seating area north of the original outdoor space and expanded its menu to include shakes and more.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1926 | Opened as Martin’s KumBak |
| 1950s | Concrete foundation |
| 2026 | 100th anniversary celebration |
Today’s Popularity
The spot remains a favorite for UT students, who stop by for a beer or burger and to catch games on the many TVs.
Despite not having a large celebration on New Year’s Day, the owners are gearing up for a bigger celebration this summer.
Key Takeaways
- 100 years of service since 1926
- The name “Dirty’s” comes from its original dirt floors
- A larger celebration is planned for the summer
As Dirty’s looks forward to its summer celebration, the 100-year legacy continues to anchor Austin’s culinary scene.
