If you’ve spent time in Texas, chances are you’ve seen a P. Terry’s Burger Stand, with its retro, googie-inspired architecture and the distinctive “P. Terry’s Green.” This beloved fast-food chain, known for its all-natural ingredients and simple, affordable menu, has grown into a Lone Star staple since its founding in 2005. But the story of P. Terry’s isn’t just about burgers—it’s a tale of vision, values, and a deep connection to the past.
A Dream Rooted in Nostalgia
The journey of P. Terry’s began with Patrick Terry’s childhood love for Mack Eplen’s Drivateria, a burger joint in Abilene, Texas. Patrick was enchanted by the way Mack Eplen made everything from scratch, from the buns to the beef, creating an unforgettable dining experience. This memory fueled Patrick’s dream of opening his own burger stand—one that honored this tradition of quality and care.
On July 5, 2005, Patrick and his wife Kathy opened the first P. Terry’s on South Lamar and Barton Springs in Austin, Texas. It was a modest venture, but the couple was determined to do things differently.
A Fresh Take on Fast Food
Before opening, Kathy Terry read Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser’s exposé on the health and ethical issues of the fast-food industry. Inspired to challenge the status quo, Kathy and Patrick decided that their restaurant would prioritize high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients. They committed to serving all-natural beef and chicken, cage-free eggs, and fresh-cut fries.
Even though bacon is a fast-food staple, P. Terry’s didn’t offer it until 2012—when they finally found a high-quality, affordable, all-natural supplier. This kind of thoughtful decision-making has defined their brand.
A Retro Revival with a Modern Twist
P. Terry’s isn’t just about the food. It’s also about creating an experience. Inspired by the classic burger stands of the 1950s and 1960s, their buildings feature bold glass-and-stone designs, red steel beams, and a welcoming shade of teal known as “P. Terry’s Green” (Pantone 570 C). The chain’s aesthetic combines West Texas charm with a Palm Springs flair, evoking nostalgia while remaining fresh and unique.
From Local Favorite to Texas Icon
For years, P. Terry’s built a loyal following in Austin with its commitment to quality and hospitality. In 2018, the Terrys began planning their expansion to other Texas cities. Recognizing their need for experienced leadership, they brought in Todd Coerver in 2019 as CEO. With a background in growing Texas brands like Taco Cabana and Whataburger, Coerver helped P. Terry’s craft a strategic plan to expand beyond Austin.
Today, there are 35 P. Terry’s locations across Texas, with more on the way in San Antonio, Houston, and beyond. However, the company has no plans to expand outside Texas, ensuring they maintain the quality and character that made them a success.
The P. Terry’s Difference
P. Terry’s is more than just another burger joint. It’s a fast-food restaurant that respects its customers and its ingredients. Whether it’s the Idaho Burbank potatoes fried in 100% canola oil, the welcoming retro design, or the commitment to keeping the menu simple and affordable, P. Terry’s sets itself apart.
As Patrick Terry told Austin Monthly in 2020, “We weren’t sophisticated enough to put up a ‘Coming Soon’ sign in the early days. Now we don’t have to.” That’s because P. Terry’s has become a recognizable symbol of Texas hospitality and taste—proving that fast food can be done the right way.