• August 15, 2023
  • Lauren Critzer
  • 0

The Unique Legacy of Nau’s Enfield Drug

Nau’s Enfield Drug situates itself at the intersection of comforting nostalgia and the sustained commitment to community service. Its journey from humble beginnings in 1951 till now is a testament to the resilience and charm of Austin’s traditional treasures.

  • A Historical Landmark: Nau’s status as a local monument predates most of Austin’s towering skyscrapers and modern complexes. Nau’s was around when Elvis Presley was a heartthrob, and the first “Peanuts” comic strip hit the newspapers. This piece of history seeped into Austin and held its ground even through the dot com boom and the city’s transformation into a tech hub.

  • Rare, Vintage Charm: As businesses around it modernized, Nau’s found its strength in its endearing nostalgia. Slipping past its glass doors is like entering a time bubble that flushes out the city’s fast-paced ambiance and replaces it with a slower, sweeter lifestyle.

Must-Try Delights at Soda Fountain and Grill

Visiting Nau’s without experiencing their perennial classics is akin to missing the quintessential Austin experience. Here are some of the ‘must-have’ delicacies at Nau’s Enfield Drug.

  • Grilled Rueben Sandwiches: The perfect blend of savory corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, tangy Sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing on rye is a symphony in your mouth. It carries the essence of old-school American dining to your plate.

  • Milkshakes and More: The old-fashioned milkshakes, whether it’s classic vanilla, decadent chocolate, sweet strawberry, or any of their seasonal specials, are an explosion of creamy perfection. They even hand-whip their cream and make their own syrups – it can’t get more authentic than that!

An Instrument of Community Engagement

Decades into serving the community, Nau’s Enfield Drug has garnered a reputation that far surpasses its identity as an eatery or a pharmacy. It has become an integral part of Austin’s social fabric.

  • Community Events: Nau’s routinely hosts events that contribute to the community’s vibrancy. From painting workshops, story-telling evenings to holiday season celebrations, these events are a testament to Nau’s commitment to the people of Austin.

  • Promotion of Local Art: Nau’s actively promotes local artists by showcasing their work, largely contributing to Austin’s flourishing arts scene.

An Overview of West Enfield Neighbourhood

West Enfield mirrors the charm of Nau’s in its picturesque landscapes and tranquil, community-centric environment.

  • The neighbourhood boasts of heritage architecture, stunning nature trails, and idyllic parks. The houses, be it vintage bungalows, sophisticated condos, or serene ranch homes, reflect the region’s diverse architectural styles and history.

  • Top-rated schools, dedicated public spaces, and easy access to necessities make West Enfield a sought-after residential location in Austin. They contribute largely to the neighbourhood’s reputation as a decidedly family-friendly area.

Pulling the Curtains with Nau’s Enfield Drug

The spotlight on Nau’s Enfield Drug illuminates a vibrant picture that captures Austin’s laid-back ambiance, its rich history, and its ultimate charm. An experience that amalgamates comfort food served with hearty smiles, and a dose of memory-making, Nau’s is Austin’s long-lasting love affair condensed into one charming drugstore cum diner.

So, the next time you’re in Austin, let the quaint charm of Nau’s Enfield Drug woo you. Sit down on their iconic soda fountain bar stools, watch sodas being drawn from heritage dispensers, dig into lovingly prepared meals, and even shop some kitschy novelty items – you’ll truly feel like the limelight has shone on you. And remember, while there, you’re part of a legacy, an experience, and a love story that’s authentically Austin.

Lauren Critzer

I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and after college, I moved to San Francisco to explore new opportunities and broaden my horizons. I fell in love with the city's vibrant culture and unique atmosphere, but eventually, I moved again, this time to Austin, Texas.

As much as I loved living in different parts of the country, having a baby boy brought me back to my hometown in Charlottesville, where I now live with my husband, our little one, and two furry friends. I enjoy going to wineries, taking my pups everywhere, and spending quality time with my family.

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