James Beard Foundation names East Austin restaurant an 'American Classic'

People who live in Austin know Joe's Bakery on East Seventh Street is a local classic. Now, the James Beard Foundation is calling it an "American Classic." The restaurant and bakery founded by Joe Avila in 1962 is one of six restaurants honored this year by the foundation, which gives out culinary awards annually.

The foundation acknowledged the stalwart bakery's pan dulce, carne guisada and breakfast tacos, as well as the important role the women-owned-and-operated restaurant has played in the "rapidly gentrifying" neighborhood.

The late Joe Avila, who was considered one of the "patróns" of the East Austin Latinx community, opened the original location of this Mexican breakfast and lunch institution in 1962 before moving a few doors to its current location in 1969.

For subscribers:Este's bold flavors make it one of Austin's best seafood and Mexican restaurants

Joe's Bakery grew out of the business Joe Avila's parents opened on East Ninth Street under the banner La Oriental Grocery & Bakery. Three generations of women from the Avila family continue to own and operate Joe's Bakery, including the restaurant's general manager and Joe Avila's granddaughter, Regina Estrada.

In addition to its culinary offerings, the restaurant has also been a fixture for dining and campaigning politicians and remains politically active, with the restaurant in years past giving discounts to customers wearing "I Voted" or "Yo Voté” stickers.

Joe's Bakery joins fellow Texas institutions Louie Mueller BBQ and Perini Ranch Steakhouse among the ranks of Beard "American Classics."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Joe's Bakery named 'American Classic' by James Beard Foundation