By Abby Knox, Staff Writer
The Echo is an exquisite diner in Hyde Park known for its fancy atmosphere and quality food. This gem is less than 10 minutes from Xavier’s campus by car. A local favorite, it often has a line of people out the door on any given morning, especially on weekends. However, the line moves rather quickly as the workers do not play around with getting people seated and fed the deliciousness that is The Echo’s offerings.
From the first time I walked into this diner, I felt a warm and cozy feeling inside. With the lively atmosphere and regulars being called by name, this place feels like more than just a business. The closeness that customers feel when sitting at the counter is something that has to be experienced.
Known for its breakfast, The Echo is the perfect place to go after a long night or when you want good, simple food. The Echo has weekly seasonal specials, which currently include pumpkin pancakes and caramel apple french toast. The Echo also has a lunch menu with a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups.
I chose to order Steph’s Sampler. With two eggs, bacon, sausage, two hotcakes (sometimes I add chocolate chips if I’m feeling a little extra) and a side, what else could a girl ask for? Maybe a Coke Zero… Don’t worry, they have Coke products too. So, if you are like me and often really crave a fountain Coke, the Echo has got you covered on all fronts.
Steph’s Sampler, a Breakfast Meal From the Echo
The food came out hot and steaming. My pancakes were loaded with chocolate chips which was just the sweetness I needed. They also came out with packets of butter on top, so by the time it got to me, the butter was beginning to melt making the pancakes soaked.
As a side, I got home fries, which are little cubed potatoes. Although they are nothing special, they never fail to taste amazing because of their salty, crispy, outside and soft inside. As for the eggs, I got mine scrambled with cheese, and by no surprise, these were just as amazing as the rest of my meal. Finally, to top it off, I got two pieces of bacon and two pieces of sausage, which were a nice balance to my very rich chocolate chip pancakes.
“It was an awesome atmosphere. We were seated pretty quickly even though there was quite a line. The food was good and drink refills were also really fast,” freshman criminal justice major Peyton Travis said.
As for the price, I would say it is good for all the food I got. I paid $21 for the whole meal including my soda. With items ranging from $6-15 dollars, this spot has amazing food for an amazing price.
The only drawback worth mentioning would have to be parking. There are paid parking spots in the surrounding area, or you can park on the street which can sometimes be a pain.
Overall, this place is a favorite of mine with its intimate atmosphere and amazing food and lower costs. If I am ever feeling homesick, I know one visit to The Echo will have my spirits lifted once again.