I visit Austin often and always break up my BBQ and taco-eating with a memorable burger. For my recent trip, a local foodie recommended Salt & Time, a popular butcher shop, salumeria, and restaurant in a quieter section of East Austin. Salt & Time earns high accolades for their rotating menu of locally sourced meats, steaks and their signature burger.
The Burger: The Butcher Burger
The Taste: The beef comes from local Texas ranchers and is made of leftover trimmings from the butcher shop. The meat blend changes and is ground daily; therefore, the burger is different every day. The Butcher Burger is topped with aioli and pickles, then sandwiched onto a brioche bun. It also comes with a hefty helping of thick beef fat fries. Your burger topping options are: Swiss cheese, egg, and ‘Nduja Tejana sauce for a spicy kick.
I ordered my burger medium rare with Swiss cheese. My first bite was extra juicy, seasoned perfectly and absolutely yummy with just the right amount of fat to meat ratio. The cheese and aioli combo added some extra richness to the meat; almost like it had been massaged in warm butter. The pickles complimented this decadent richness with a hint of sour. Every bite up to the very last, tasted even better; the meat remained juicy and the bun never got soggy. This burger doesn’t need condiments, extra seasoning or any toppings other than cheese – it’s perfectly prepared and all about its meaty deliciousness.
The Verdict: Salt & Time is fully on point in the meat department. The restaurant has a comfy, relaxed atmosphere. It isn’t noisy and you won’t have to wait in a line for your burger. This is one of the best burger gems in Austin, not only for the taste and quality, but also the price, at only $14. It’s only been 9 days since I tried The Butcher Burger and I’m already salivating in anticipation of eating it again on my next visit. This is truly one of the best burgers I’ve eaten in a long time and is now on my Top 10 list of favorites.
Salt & Time is located at 1912 East 7th Street in East Austin, Texas.
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