Businesses fight for Sixth St. sidewalk

KXAN (AUSTIN) - Anyone who has hung out on Sixth Street in the last 17 years has probably seen, or even bought, a bratwurst from a cart at the corner of 6th and San Jacinto.

"We've been a staple fixture on 6th Street all these years. We're part of the landscape," said Jon Notarthomas, owner of Best Wurst who is still shocked at its success.

The business mission has not changed much since it opened: provide a way for musicians to make money. The business now employs five people full time.

Three years ago, Parkside restaurant set up shop in the building the stand sits in front of.

"When Shawn moved in, I knew there was some animosity," said Notarthomas.

Shawn Cirkiel is the chef and owner of the upscale restaurant that has recently received rave reviews from Texas Monthly and Bon Appetit magazine. Business has been so good, they want more room.

"We are expanding the balcony over the sidewalk, similar to the Stephen F. Austin or the Intercontinental," said Cirkiel.

Eventually, he will be asking the city if they can add a sidewalk cafe, which means the sausage stand would have to go.

"The great thing about a mobile cart is it's able to be mobile," said Cirkiel.

The Best Wurst owner said his city permit expired June 17 to operate the corner. After they requested to renew, Parkside filed an objection with the city, citing several health and safety concerns. Parkside claims there are too many people waiting in line for brats who block the sidewalk and lean on the from restaurant windows.

Last weekend Best Wurst temporarily moved their cart across the street.

"The front of the restaurant was clean, and orderly and it was good," said Cirkiel.

Notarthomas said the original location accounts for 80 to 90-percent of their entire business, which will collapse if they have to move.

"Last weekend we were down some 40-percent just being across the street," said Notarthomas.

Until a solution can be reached, the city has extended the vendor's permit indefinitely. The transportation department has the final say since they handle sidewalk permit issues. A decision could take another week.

A Facebook page has been set up for those trying to save Best Wurst.