Elevated Dining Experiences
Have you ever driven through a charming southern city, its brick buildings whispering tales of history, only to be surprised by the vibrant, contemporary flavors emanating from its restaurants? That’s Winston-Salem for you. More than just a historical haven, this North Carolina gem is blossoming into a culinary destination, offering a delicious blend of classic Southern comfort food and innovative gastronomic experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Winston-Salem’s diverse food scene has something to tantalize every taste bud. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable journey as we explore the must-try eateries and hidden culinary gems that make Winston-Salem a true foodie paradise. From elegant fine dining experiences to casual, comforting meals, and exotic international flavors, this guide is your passport to the best food Winston-Salem has to offer.
For those special occasions when only the finest will do, or when you simply want to treat yourself to an evening of culinary artistry, Winston-Salem boasts a selection of upscale restaurants that promise an unforgettable dining experience. These establishments focus on impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and, of course, exquisitely prepared dishes.
Consider Ryan’s Restaurant, a long standing Winston-Salem institution. Located in an unassuming building, Ryan’s offers a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or celebrating a milestone. The menu features classic American cuisine with a modern twist, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their signature dish, pan seared scallops with a butternut squash puree and brown butter sage sauce, is a testament to their commitment to culinary excellence. The scallops are perfectly cooked and the puree provides a unique blend of sweetness and nutty flavor that will leave you wanting more. You can find Ryan’s Restaurant at Brookstown Avenue, and they’re just a phone call away to book a reservation.
Then there’s Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro, an elegant but not stuffy option. Mozelle’s is located in a beautiful historic building on Reynolda Road. This restaurant celebrates Southern cuisine with a contemporary touch, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. It’s a perfect spot for a celebratory dinner or a special occasion, offering a menu that blends tradition with innovation. Don’t miss their shrimp and grits, a Southern classic elevated with a creamy, rich sauce and locally sourced shrimp. You can make a reservation online or by phone, and I highly recommend doing so especially during peak hours.
Finally, for a more modern take on the fine dining experience, The Katharine Brasserie & Bar, located in the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, is an excellent choice. With its chic, art deco inspired décor and vibrant atmosphere, The Katharine is the perfect setting for a stylish night out. The menu features French inspired dishes with a Southern influence, creating a unique and unforgettable culinary experience. Their steak frites are a must try, perfectly cooked and served with crispy, golden fries and a delicious béarnaise sauce. Their address is Main Street, right in the heart of downtown.
Casual Eateries and Local Delights
Sometimes, all you crave is a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food that doesn’t break the bank. Winston-Salem has plenty of casual dining options that are perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a casual get together with friends. These are the places that locals frequent, offering a true taste of Winston-Salem’s culinary soul.
First up is Camel City BBQ Factory, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering barbecue and laid back atmosphere. Their pulled pork sandwich, slow cooked and dripping with tangy barbecue sauce, is a must try. It’s served on a toasted bun with a side of coleslaw. They also have other barbecue options to try, such as brisket and ribs. Their address is Peters Creek Parkway and you can find them open most days of the week.
Next, we have Cugino Forno Pizzeria, a cozy and authentic Neapolitan pizzeria located in the heart of downtown. This pizzeria is known for its wood fired pizzas, made with fresh, high quality ingredients. Their Margherita pizza, made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, is a classic choice that will transport you straight to Italy. You can find Cugino Forno on Fourth Street, in the heart of downtown.
Then there’s Hakka Chow Asian Eats, if you are wanting something a bit different. Their menu features a variety of noodle dishes, soups, and salads, all made with fresh, high quality ingredients. Their Pad Thai, a classic Thai noodle dish with shrimp, chicken, peanuts, and bean sprouts, is a customer favorite. The spice level is completely customizable. Hakka Chow is on Reynolda Road, offering flavorful options for lunch and dinner.
Exploring International Flavors
Winston-Salem’s culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures, and that’s beautifully reflected in its diverse array of international restaurants. Whether you’re craving authentic tacos, spicy curries, or delicate sushi, you’ll find a global culinary adventure waiting for you in Winston-Salem.
For authentic Mexican, try La Botana. This restaurant serves up a flavorful taste of Mexico with its dishes. Their tacos are a must try, featuring a variety of fillings like carne asada, carnitas, and al pastor, all served on warm, homemade tortillas. Their mole sauce is another local favorite, boasting a rich, complex flavor that perfectly complements their chicken enchiladas. La Botana has a location on Reynolda Road and University Parkway.
Looking for something spicier? Taste of Thai is one of the best places to try Thai cuisine. The restaurant is located on Stratford Road, and has served Winston-Salem residents authentic Thai food for years. Their Pad See Ew dish with shrimp, chicken, or tofu is a great option to try. You can customize the spice level to make it just right for your taste.
For a different flavor profile, check out Yamato Japanese Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes, from sushi and sashimi to teriyaki and tempura. Their sushi is incredibly fresh. Consider the spicy tuna roll or the California roll if you are new to sushi. It’s located on Hanes Mall Boulevard, with long hours to fulfill your craving.
Breakfast and Brunch Havens
Start your day off right with a visit to one of Winston-Salem’s many delightful breakfast and brunch spots. From fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to savory omelets and creamy grits, these eateries offer the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring or simply enjoy a leisurely weekend morning.
Mary’s Gourmet Diner is a beloved local institution that’s been serving up delicious comfort food for years. Their pancakes are legendary, thick, fluffy, and perfectly golden brown. They are even better when topped with fresh berries and maple syrup. Their eggs benedict, with perfectly poached eggs and creamy hollandaise sauce, is another popular choice. Find it on Trade Street, right in the city center.
If you’re looking for a more upscale brunch experience, Sweet Potatoes is a fantastic choice. This restaurant celebrates Southern cuisine with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their shrimp and grits, a Southern classic elevated with a creamy, rich sauce and locally sourced shrimp, is a must try. Their mimosas are also popular, made with fresh squeezed orange juice and a variety of different fruit purees. Their Reynolda Road location is busy during brunch so be sure to plan ahead.
For a quick and casual breakfast, Krankies is the perfect spot. This quirky cafe serves up delicious coffee, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches in a funky, eclectic setting. Their breakfast burritos, filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat or veggies, are a filling and satisfying way to start your day. You can find Krankies on East Third Street, known for its delicious coffee and pastries.
Sweet Endings and Dessert Delights
No foodie adventure is complete without indulging in a sweet treat or two. Winston-Salem boasts a variety of dessert shops, bakeries, and ice cream parlors that are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Black Mountain Chocolate is a must visit for any chocolate lover. This artisan chocolate shop creates handcrafted chocolates using only the finest ingredients. Their truffles, rich and decadent, are a perfect indulgence. Their chocolate bars, made with single origin cacao beans, offer a unique and intense flavor experience. Their handmade chocolates are carefully crafted to ensure a luxurious flavor profile, and can be found on Trade Street.
For a scoop of something cool, Camino Bakery is the place to go. This local bakery offers a rotating selection of homemade ice cream flavors, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their strawberry ice cream, made with locally grown strawberries, is a refreshing and delicious treat. Their cookies and cream flavor, made with crumbled Oreo cookies, is another customer favorite. Camino has multiple locations in Winston Salem, including Brookstown Avenue and Fourth Street.
Finally, Dewey’s Bakery is a Winston-Salem institution that’s been serving up sweet treats for generations. Their sugar cookies, decorated with colorful icing, are a local favorite. Their Moravian cookies, thin, crispy, and infused with spices, are another must try. Dewey’s has several locations throughout Winston Salem, ensuring that there’s always something sweet available nearby.
A Few Local Secrets…
Beyond the well-known and established restaurants, Winston-Salem harbors some hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered. These are the places that locals whisper about, the ones that offer unique and unforgettable dining experiences that you won’t find in any guidebook.
Tucked away on Liberty Street, The Porch Kitchen and Cantina offers a delicious taste of Tex-Mex cuisine in a casual and inviting setting. Their tacos are a standout, featuring a variety of creative fillings like Korean BBQ pork and fried avocado. They also have a fantastic selection of margaritas, perfect for washing down those spicy tacos. It’s a great place to go with friends and enjoy some good food and drinks.
If you’re looking for authentic Italian, Di Lisio’s Italian Restaurant on Reynolda Road is a favorite spot for pasta. It is a cozy and family owned restaurant that serves up classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high quality ingredients. Their lasagna, layered with homemade pasta, ricotta cheese, and a rich meat sauce, is a must try. Be sure to check their hours before going.
Your Winston-Salem Culinary Adventure Awaits
Winston-Salem’s food scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of flavors, textures, and experiences. From elegant fine dining to casual comfort food, international delicacies to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate in this charming Southern city. We encourage you to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide, venture off the beaten path, and discover your own hidden culinary gems. Winston-Salem is a place where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly, creating a unique and unforgettable food experience. So, what are you waiting for? Start your Winston-Salem food adventure today and share your favorite culinary discoveries with us in the comments below! We’re always looking for new and delicious recommendations to add to our list.
