Danielle H.
Yelp
Saxapahaw is such a cute little town, and The Eddy Pub seems to only add to the charm. Having driven past this spot a few times and after researching their COVID protocols, my husband and I confidently made The Eddy Pub our first venture back to indoor dining in over a year. Overall, it was a really solid choice!
The pub itself is full of casual charm with large windows, plants (which are also there to help purify the air), and an inviting bar and patio. The indoor space is a bit smaller than I expected, and because I sometimes require the use of a wheelchair, I noted that although there is a ramp leading to the establishment, it's a steep one and the hostess stand is shaped in such a way that it may be difficult to maneuver around - thankfully I wasn't in need of my wheelchair when I stopped by, but it is something I will be mindful of in the future. There may be a side or back door that can also be used for handicap accessibility, but keep in mind that the space is small, so it's going to feel a bit cumbersome regardless.
The staff was friendly from the get-go, both when making the reservation (which they definitely recommend) and in person. The precautions they are taking to ensure customer and staff safety are extensive: mandatory mask wearing when not at your table, online ordering and paying via your phone, barriers placed between some of the tables, and increased air circulation.
For an appetizer we ordered their pupusas which come
with a lovely homemade hot sauce (think more enchilada sauce and less Texas Pete). Although the pupusas did not have the same crispy exterior I am accustomed to, they were super flavorful and tasty. I would happily order these again. Sadly, the kitchen did not realize the pupusas were to be the appetizer, and they were brought out with our entrees, but that's okay.
For our main courses, we both had the fish and chips. I'll be honest, James loved this dish but it didn't quite wow me. The breading was light and super crispy, almost reminding me of tempura but not quite, and the fish was fresh. I think the fish was catfish, though don't quote me on it. The texture of the fish was a bit wetter than I am used to - not undercooked, just a bit less flaky. I'm a sucker for cornmeal crusted catfish because a lot of flavor can be packed into a cornmeal batter, so perhaps these are the reasons why it wasn't quite a home run for me personally. The hand cut fries were really delicious, especially when dipped in malt vinegar.
I definitely see myself returning to The Eddy in the future. Prices are fair for a nice, casual dinner out and the menu is small but varied. The dessert specials sounded especially appealing, so I look forward to trying those next time.