Elevated Dining Experiences
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, a city steeped in history and Southern charm, is rapidly emerging as a culinary destination worth exploring. Forget the days of only knowing it for tobacco; Winston-Salem’s food scene has blossomed, offering a diverse array of flavors and experiences that cater to every palate and budget. From upscale dining rooms to cozy cafes and innovative breweries, this city is serving up something special. Its affordability compared to larger cities and the growing emphasis on local ingredients have fueled this culinary renaissance, attracting talented chefs and passionate food entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, Winston-Salem has a restaurant to satisfy your cravings. This guide will take you on a culinary journey through some of the best and most unique food places in Winston-Salem, highlighting establishments that capture the essence of the city’s thriving food culture.
For those seeking a refined and unforgettable culinary experience, Winston-Salem boasts several restaurants that elevate dining to an art form. These establishments offer impeccable service, sophisticated atmospheres, and menus crafted with precision and creativity.
Consider Ryan’s Restaurant, an establishment known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional American cuisine. This is the place to go when celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a memorable meal. Its carefully curated menu features dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in flavors that are both comforting and innovative. Expect to find perfectly cooked steaks, succulent seafood, and an array of thoughtfully prepared vegetarian options. The wine list is extensive, and the knowledgeable staff can guide you toward the perfect pairing to complement your meal. While Ryan’s falls into a higher price range, the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere make it a worthwhile investment for a special night out.
Then, journey to The Katharine Brasserie & Bar, nestled within the historic Kimpton Cardinal Hotel. This French-inspired brasserie exudes Parisian charm, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. The Katharine is a beloved spot for both brunch and dinner, offering classic French dishes with a modern twist. Imagine indulging in a perfectly executed steak frites, savoring a creamy French onion soup, or enjoying fresh oysters on the half shell. The bar at The Katharine is equally impressive, featuring a curated cocktail menu and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner, a celebratory brunch, or a casual gathering with friends.
For a more contemporary and trendy dining experience, explore newer restaurants constantly popping up that push culinary boundaries. Many new establishments focus on innovative cuisine, crafting menus that showcase the chef’s unique vision and creativity. These spots often feature tasting menus that allow diners to sample a variety of dishes and experience the full breadth of the chef’s culinary expertise. These restaurants are often recognized for their commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients, supporting local farmers and producers while delivering the freshest and most flavorful dishes. The atmosphere is often modern and stylish, creating a vibrant and exciting dining environment.
Casual Dining and Local Favorites
Winston-Salem is just as much about accessible and comforting cuisine as it is fine dining. The city boasts a variety of casual dining establishments that serve up delicious food in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. These local favorites are perfect for everyday meals, quick lunches, or casual gatherings with friends and family.
No culinary exploration of Winston-Salem is complete without indulging in some authentic North Carolina barbecue. Little Richard’s BBQ is a local institution, serving up classic Lexington-style barbecue that has been satisfying locals for generations. In Lexington-style barbecue, the pork shoulder is slow-cooked over hickory wood and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Little Richard’s BBQ offers a variety of barbecue plates, sandwiches, and sides, all prepared with the same time-honored recipes. Be sure to try the hushpuppies and coleslaw, which are the perfect complements to the smoky and tangy barbecue. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
For a taste of classic American comfort food, head to Mary’s Gourmet Diner. This beloved diner is a Winston-Salem institution, serving up hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and comforting dinners in a nostalgic atmosphere. Mary’s Gourmet Diner offers a menu full of classic diner fare, including pancakes, omelets, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Everything is made from scratch, with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the biscuits and gravy, which are a local favorite. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal any time of day.
If you’re craving authentic Italian pizza, Cugino Forno Pizzeria is a must-visit. This popular pizzeria serves up Neapolitan-style pizzas that are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and a perfectly melted topping. Cugino Forno Pizzeria uses high-quality ingredients, including imported Italian flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella cheese. The menu features a variety of classic and creative pizzas, as well as salads, appetizers, and desserts. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual dinner with friends and family.
Exploring ethnic food is also a must. From Thai to Vietnamese to Mexican to Ethiopian food, Winston-Salem has a variety of options to excite your palate. Be sure to try new options and find that perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
Coffee Shops and Bakeries
Winston-Salem’s cafe and bakery scene is thriving, offering a plethora of options for those seeking a caffeine fix, a sweet treat, or a cozy spot to relax and unwind. From artisanal coffee shops to traditional bakeries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Krankies Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a Winston-Salem institution. This eclectic cafe is known for its strong coffee, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere. Krankies Coffee serves a variety of coffee drinks, from classic espresso beverages to creative specialty drinks. They also offer a menu of breakfast and lunch items, including sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The atmosphere is quirky and inviting, making it a popular spot for students, artists, and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a place to work, meet friends, or simply enjoy a good cup of coffee, Krankies Coffee is a must-visit.
For a taste of traditional Moravian baking, head to Dewey’s Bakery. This family-owned bakery has been serving Winston-Salem for generations, offering a variety of classic Moravian treats. Dewey’s Bakery is best known for its Moravian cookies, which are thin, crispy, and delicately spiced. The bakery also offers a variety of other baked goods, including cakes, pies, pastries, and breads. Be sure to try the sugar cake, which is a local favorite. Dewey’s Bakery is a Winston-Salem tradition, and a visit to the bakery is a must for anyone looking to experience the city’s culinary heritage.
For a trendy cafe experience, explore the many new spots constantly opening. Many offer aesthetically pleasing decor, artisanal toasts, and smoothie bowls for the perfect Instagram post.
Bars and Breweries with Exceptional Food
Winston-Salem’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with a growing number of breweries offering a variety of locally brewed beers and delicious food. These establishments provide a unique and enjoyable dining experience, combining the best of both worlds.
Foothills Brewing is one of Winston-Salem’s most popular breweries, known for its award-winning beers and delicious pub fare. Foothills Brewing offers a wide selection of beers, from classic IPAs to innovative seasonal brews. The brewery also has a full-service restaurant that serves a variety of pub-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and salads. Be sure to try the famous Foothills Burger, which is made with local beef and topped with all the fixings. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
For an elevated pub experience, head to The Porch Kitchen and Cantina. This gastropub offers a menu of creative and elevated pub fare, alongside a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The Porch Kitchen and Cantina is known for its innovative dishes, which are made with fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the tacos, which are a local favorite. The atmosphere is modern and stylish, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.
For wine lovers, consider Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar. In addition to an excellent wine list, they also offer an array of charcuterie boards with different cheeses and meats.
Unique and Quirky Food Experiences
Winston-Salem offers a variety of unique and quirky food experiences that are sure to delight adventurous eaters. From food trucks to specialty food shops, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Winston-Salem’s food truck scene is thriving, offering a variety of culinary options on wheels. Food trucks are a convenient and affordable way to sample different cuisines and flavors. You can find food trucks serving everything from tacos and burgers to barbecue and desserts. Be sure to check out Food Truck Fridays, where a variety of food trucks gather in one location, offering a diverse array of dining options. Some of the most popular food trucks in Winston-Salem include options ranging from Mexican to American fare.
(Optional) Specialty Food Shop/Market: Consider including a local cheese shop, spice shop, or gourmet grocery store.
Conclusion
Winston-Salem’s food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry, woven together by talented chefs, passionate food entrepreneurs, and a commitment to using local ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a fine dining experience, a casual meal, a caffeine fix, or a unique culinary adventure, Winston-Salem has something to satisfy your cravings. From classic Southern barbecue to innovative contemporary cuisine, the city’s food scene is constantly evolving and expanding, offering something new to discover with every visit. So, come hungry and discover the culinary treasures of Winston-Salem! What are YOUR favorite Winston-Salem food spots? Share them in the comments below!
