Nestled in the corner of West Haggard, next to Kangaroo, lies Skid’s, Elon University’s very own family-friendly restaurant.
Many students have stopped by for breakfast to enjoy a homey dining atmosphere. The restaurant was opened in 2003 by George Katsoudas and has served a variety of American and Greek foods ever since.
The original Skid’s restaurant was opened by a man named Skidmore in 1907 and is still located on North Church Street in Burlington. In 1955, it was sold to a good friend of Katsoudas’ father, and then sold to his father in 1982.
Katsoudas’ extension of the restaurant came from his own pursuit to continue the business.
“I grew up in Burlington,” Katsoudas said. “After college I spent some time traveling until I found this location, and I asked my father if I could use the name, and it went from there.”
Skid’s held its 11th anniversary Feb. 12. Although they have not done anything to specifically celebrate another year, they plan on putting it in the newspaper to run specials and thank the community for its business.
Katsoudas believes that what makes the restaurant so unique is the way he runs the business: treating the costumers like family.
“It is a family business and I have friends that come in all the time,” Katsoudas said. “I was always brought up to take care of your customers and treat them like it is their home away from home. Unlike chain restaurants, we remember names, we remember faces.”
As for the college scene, Skid’s does attract the kids who are looking for something different, as it is located just off campus.
“A lot of students want a diner-like fare and atmosphere instead of the typical dining hall or coffee shop,” Katsoudas said. “Once they come they like to stay, but I do not think I serve breakfast early enough on the weekend.”
Katsoudas’ day begins at 6:30 a.m., when he arrives at the restaurant to get the operation started and keep everything in check.
“I am the first person here,” Katsoudas said. “I make sure that my boys are having a good day, so things go smoothly. After that I do what I can, I talk to my customers and take inventory. This place has been so good to my family and me. Although I am tired sometimes, it is worth it.”
A few changes have been made to Skid’s over the years, including a few menu tweaks and adding televisions so customers can watch the news. Katsoudas also plans to add outdoor seating and recently got a beer and wine license.
“People have been asking for it for a few years,” Katsoudas said. “I used to be against serving alcohol at the restaurant, but now they will be able to enjoy wings and beer during games.”
Despite these changes, Skid’s will always try keep its family-friendly atmosphere and homey mentality.
“My favorite part about Skid’s is where I am and where we’re located,” Katsoudas said. “I can sit here with a cup of coffee and I look out at a neighborhood. I see people walking by with their kids and dogs and going to work. It is almost like a fresh breath of air. I am home.”