The metaphorical rapids of Elon University intensify at this point in the semester as professors seem to pile on the work. But along the way, the river sometimes provides a brief respite. At a boulder or some other obstacle in the river, the rapids diverge. And left behind the rock is a pool of calm water gently moving the opposite way: the eddy.
The Eddy Pub & Restaurant is a relief. Don’t be in a hurry when you go to the Eddy, or anywhere else in Saxapahaw for that matter. It’s not a place for the “on-the-go” mentality.
Similarly to the river, it takes some work to get to the Eddy. The drive is about 30 minutes from campus — I’d suggest going during the day to enjoy the rural scenery. Cross the finish line at the Haw River, and you’ll arrive in Saxapahaw.
[quote]Yes, the service may take a while, but it’s all relative — maybe you’re moving too fast. Remember to relax as you dine here.[/quote]
Sleepy Saxapahaw will charm small town lovers, and the Haw River will woo those who love the outdoors. The renovated river mill hosts the General Store, a coffee shop and the Eddy Pub & Restaurant.
The rustic cabin feel of the pub and restaurant is warm and cozy. Walking into the place made me feel like I should’ve kayaked down the Haw from Elon — next time, perhaps. Seating isn’t plentiful, so avoid any wait by going on a weekday. The smaller dining area provides intimacy.
Nothing is more intimate than dining at the bar. It is well-stocked with local brews and vintages, and my knowledgeable server advised me on my selection.
The service is friendly and accommodating. A common complaint by online reviewers of this restaurant is that the service is too slow. Yes, the service may take a while, but it’s all relative — maybe you’re moving too fast. Remember to relax as you dine here.
The Eddy is serious about its food. The staff executes a gourmet approach to Southern Cuisine. With emphasis on local ingredients, the menu also changes with the seasons.
The list of starters provides an exciting selection. Pairing with a beverage, you can choose a local cheese or sausage sampler. I found the duck roulade hard to resist. But when I saw the local pork belly plate, I changed my mind.
Fitting the theme, the main courses emphasize quality, no matter the cooking time.
The slow-cooked meat of the beer-braised chicken falls off the bone — “tender” and “juicy” fail to complete the description the menu provided. The chicken’s gravy pools at the bottom of the plate, providing continuity and rich flavor to the complementing garlic mashers and green beans. The burger of local grass-fed beef is topped by mango chutney and farmhouse cheddar. The nutty cheddar and sweet mango flavors contrast to create divine depth to the burger.
The Eddy is a refreshing anomaly. I’m delighted to experience a place that is so relaxed yet refined — it’s tough nowadays. While making the way down the river, it’s nice to be able to make a break at the Eddy.