Freeman's Grub & Pub

Located at 1820 Spring Garden Street in Greensboro, Freeman’s Grub & Pub offers eclectic American starters, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts. There is a full bar, and outdoor seating is available.

The building at the intersection of Spring Garden and Chapman has housed several businesses over the years, so the odds of Freeman’s still being here at the start of the next decade aren’t great. If history does in fact repeat itself, be sure to enjoy this spot while it lasts.

For starters, the menu is a definite eye-catcher. Much like Crafted: The Art of Street Food, Freeman’s offers novel (or inauthentic, if you’re a purist) takes on banh mi and the Cuban sandwich. However, Freeman’s also brings jazzed-up versions of fried chicken, French fries, and other American fare into the mix. The liquor infusions make use of everything from rosemary to jalapeno while several desserts incorporate bacon.

Rest assured, however, that this is not mere gimmickry. A fried chicken sandwich came with chicken that was crisply breaded without being dry and collards and whipped potatoes that provided good textural contrast to the crunch. The shallot crusting made for a very strong flavor, but a dip in the rich accompanying demi glace took the edge off. Though a mess to eat, it was a good bite through and through. A side of fries was fresh and well-seasoned. I opted for rosemary and garlic, but several combinations are available. All told, there were no weak spots in the execution.

Given both quality and quantity, pricing here proved agreeable. Freeman’s sandwiches (“crusts”) all run $9 and come with a choice of side (“and”). The entrees are only a dollar more while the apps and salads average about $6. Those who come here expecting bar snacks may balk, but think bistro instead of bar and it all begins to make sense.

If there is one drawback to Freeman’s, it is that it is tiny. There are only a few tables within, so you are most likely looking at bar seating. This wasn’t a problem during my visit — there were few patrons and the lone bartender was both capable and amiable – but I wouldn’t want to be here when it’s at capacity.

Time will tell if Freeman’s endures and if subsequent visits deliver the same caliber experience, but for now, this is a welcome addition to the UNCG area.

8.25/10