Drove into Top Notch yesterday and it was closed. The manager James Stanish suddenly has past away and per the AAS article today the family may not re-open the store. Sad day for the family and Austin. Had, hopefully not my last, special sauce burger Saturday. RIP
Jimmy I did not know the family. I moved into that neighborhood in 1997 and shortly thereafter discovered the joy of "Top Notch." I probably on the average ate there two to three times a month. The burger I had on Saturday I called ahead to pickup and take home and James Stanish took my order. It was around 4:00pm when I arrived to get my order and the place was packed. The sister took my money as James was on the grill. To be honest by the experssion on his face James seemed like something was bothering him or in a bad mood. I just hope it was my misunderstanding and not related to what would happen that evening. I really feel bad for the family and also sad that the good ole mom and pop places seem to be slowing going away. Myself being only a year or two younger than James also puts things into prespective.
The Link Sad news indeed. This may sound odd, but the Top Notch fan base is so loyal, almost fanatical, they may will it to stay open. I hope the family finds peace, and a way to keep Top Notch going.
Sad news, I hadn't heard. As an Anderson High grad, I know the place well. I didn't know the Stanishes personally, but my brother did. RIP and my prayers for the family. I would love for them to find some way to keep it open.
I have been there many times but not for years as I used to live near Anderson High. I honestly thought that they had closed years ago until reading the article last weekend.
Just got back and did take out. They were packed with five to seven people waiting in line on the inside for the 20 monutes it took to get my order. Cars were trolling the park lot looking for places to open up. BTW the food was awesome.
i'll have to get one this thursday... can't believe i came this close to not having one ever again. prayers to the family.
Finally had my first Top Notch experience at lunch today. Best burger I have had in Austin to date. Loved it. Hopefully they keep it up and running for a long time. I see many move visits in my future.
Top Notch was my first job when I turned 15 some 26 years ago. The whole Stannish family was great to work with. Did anyone ever hear a cause of death for James?
