In the heart of Austin, Texas, a culinary cross-pollination is happening at Haymaker. While the city is world-famous for its smoked brisket and Tex-Mex, this Manor Road staple has carved out a niche by serving “regionally-inspired comfort sandwiches”. Among its most formidable offerings is the Horseshoe Double Cheeseburger, a dish that traces its dna back to the roaring twenties in Illinois.

At its core, the Horseshoe Double Cheeseburger is a celebration of high-quality beef. Haymaker utilizes 100% fresh Angus chuck for its patties. The “Double” version features two 1/3 lb. patties, creating a hefty 2/3 lb. protein foundation that is seasoned and grilled to perfection. For those with a slightly more modest appetite, the restaurant offers the “Ponyshoe,” a single-patty version that maintains the same iconic flavor profile.

What transforms this from a standard burger into a “Horseshoe” is its unique assembly. Inspired by the traditional Springfield, Illinois sandwich, the burger is served open-faced over thick Texas toast. It is then topped with a generous mound of French fries.

The crowning achievement, however, is the house-made Gruyère sauce. While traditional Illinois horseshoes often use a sharp cheddar-based “Welsh Rarebit” sauce, Haymaker elevates the experience with the nutty, sophisticated melt of Gruyère, smothered over the entire “big and burly” creation.

The Horseshoe sandwich was born in 1928 at the Old Leland Hotel in Springfield, Illinois, created by Chef Joe Schweska. The name itself is a piece of culinary metaphors: the original ham slice was shaped haymakerbbq.com like a horseshoe, the fries represented the nails, and the hot sizzle platter acted as the anvil. By bringing this tradition to Austin, Haymaker pays homage to a century of American comfort food history while adding a modern, Texas-sized twist.

Beyond the burger, Haymaker provides a quintessential neighborhood bar atmosphere. It’s a “TV-lined saloon” where locals gather for craft brews and poutine. With over 25 craft beers on tap and a dog-friendly patio, it offers the perfect backdrop for tackling one of the most indulgent sandwiches in the city. Whether you are a Midwest transplant looking for a taste of home or a local foodie seeking a “heart attack on a plate,” the Horseshoe Double Cheeseburger remains a must-try Austin landmark.

Would you like to explore other regionally-inspired sandwiches at Haymaker, such as the Louisville Slugger or their signature poutine?