The Sage Mule
The Darling of Downtown Greensboro
In November 2019, The Sage Mule opened its doors in downtown Greensboro. Though it’s been open just shy of one year, the restaurant has skyrocketed in popularity and earned a place as one of Greensboro’s most beloved breakfast and lunch spots. The restaurant’s namesake is a fun play-on words honoring Greensboro: sage is a shade of green, and a mule is half of a burro, or Spanish for ‘donkey’ (from the second syllable of Greensboro, ‘boro). I used to live across the street from Sage Mule and would grab breakfast at least 2–3 times a week. It’s both nostalgic and modern in decor — from the variety of vintage-style salt and pepper shakers on the tables to the succulent plant displays. It’s a casual spot with something to offer nearly any appetite.
The Sage Mule’s menu features tried-and-true classics: the Blue Plate special; flat top burger; and BLT sandwich, just to name a few. But it’s the small tweaks to the classic dishes (i.e. crispy pork belly on the BLT in lieu of bacon) that take their menu to the next level. Ask the staff if there’s a daily salad or sandwich special, because that’s when their culinary creativity shines through. (Their “Parmela Anderson” chicken parm sandwich changed my life). For chicken salad fans, The Sage Mule’s spin on the classic is a delight. It’s perfectly dressed with green goddess dressing, lettuce, and melted mozzarella.
As a baked goods enthusiast, I’m always drawn to the pastries on display. All pastries/desserts at The Sage Mule are lovingly baked in-house. If you’re a fan of pillowy cookies, The Sage Mule has you covered. A personal favorite of mine is their oatmeal cranberry cookie — it tastes how a warm hug feels. Their colossal cinnamon buns are the perfect way to get your daily sugar rush — they offer a traditional bun and a flavor of the day. They also offer a variety of homemade ice cream and sorbet, such as chocolate with peanut butter and fudge swirl; strawberry basil sorbet; and butter pecan ice cream.
Like restaurants everywhere, The Sage Mule had to reimagine their dining experience due to the COVID-19 outbreak. After temporarily shuttering the restaurant for approximately two months, the restaurant reopened in May 2020 with an easy-to-use online ordering system and patio service. If you’re reading this and social distancing efforts are still in effect, order a bite to go or enjoy your meal on their outdoor seating. Either way, your tastebuds will thank you.
Hungry for more? Check out The Sage Mule’s menu here.
