David Joseph: the Story Behind El Patio

 
El Patio on Gualalupe is one of Austin’s oldest Tex Mex restaurants. Opened in 1954 by a Lebanese couple, the Josephs, the building formerly housed a restaurant named Schoonerville.

Today’s Podcast is with their youngest son, David Joseph who began working for his dad at age 11 for $0.25 per hour. Thirty-nine years later, David is at the helm while his 85-year-old Mom still comes in several afternoons a week. And little has changed. Their queso is still amazing and served with thick, crispy masa-based tortillas which are unique in the city. David shares with us the history of this family endeavor and some of the fascinating stories that have accumulated over the years around this Tex Mex legend. This was one of my favorite interviews, and I hope you enjoy it.