Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is more than just a city steeped in history and the arts. Beyond the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and its storied past as a tobacco hub, a culinary revolution is quietly brewing. The city is blossoming into a bona fide foodie destination, offering a smorgasbord of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences. From upscale fine dining to casual local haunts and exotic international cuisine, Winston-Salem caters to every palate and craving. This guide will delve into the heart of the Twin City’s vibrant gastronomic landscape, unveiling the must-try restaurants and dishes that define its culinary identity. Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Winston-Salem, a city that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Fine Dining Experiences: A Symphony of Flavors
For those seeking an unforgettable culinary indulgence, Winston-Salem boasts a selection of restaurants that elevate dining to an art form. These establishments prioritize impeccable service, innovative menus, and the finest ingredients, creating a memorable experience for even the most discerning palate.
Ryan’s Restaurant: A Classic with a Modern Twist
Ryan’s Restaurant, a Winston-Salem institution, seamlessly blends classic American cuisine with a contemporary flair. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, making it perfect for a special occasion or a memorable night out. Ryan’s focuses on locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish bursts with freshness and seasonal flavor. Their menu features a tantalizing array of options, but the grilled filet mignon, cooked to perfection and drizzled with a rich red wine reduction, is a perennial favorite. For seafood enthusiasts, the pan-seared scallops, served atop a bed of creamy risotto and asparagus, are an absolute must-try. The service at Ryan’s is impeccable, adding to the overall sense of luxury and refinement. The carefully curated wine list ensures that every dish is perfectly complemented by the ideal vintage. Ryan’s stands as a testament to Winston-Salem’s commitment to culinary excellence and provides an unparalleled dining experience.
Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro: Sophistication in a Relaxed Setting
Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro offers a more relaxed take on fine dining, while maintaining the same commitment to quality and flavor. This charming bistro exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. The menu features a creative interpretation of Southern classics, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The shrimp and grits, a Southern staple, are elevated to new heights at Mozelle’s, with creamy stone-ground grits, succulent shrimp, and a flavorful andouille sausage gravy. Another standout dish is the fried green tomatoes, perfectly crispy and served with a tangy remoulade sauce. Mozelle’s is known for its friendly and attentive service, which adds to its relaxed and welcoming ambiance. Their outdoor patio is a particularly popular spot during the warmer months. Mozelle’s beautifully balances Southern comfort with a touch of elegance.
The Katharine Brasserie & Bar: European Elegance in the Heart of Downtown
Located within the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, The Katharine Brasserie & Bar brings a touch of European elegance to Winston-Salem’s downtown area. The restaurant’s stylish décor and sophisticated ambiance create a refined yet inviting atmosphere. The menu draws inspiration from classic French brasseries, featuring dishes such as steak frites, coq au vin, and bouillabaisse. The ingredients are fresh and flavorful and the menu changes seasonally. One of the most recommended is the roasted chicken, perfectly seasoned and incredibly moist. The Katharine is also renowned for its extensive cocktail program and curated wine list, making it a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap. The level of service and food will not disappoint.
Casual Comfort Food: Winston-Salem’s Local Favorites
Sometimes, all you crave is a comforting, unfussy meal that satisfies the soul. Winston-Salem boasts a plethora of casual dining establishments that deliver just that, serving up delicious food in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. These are the spots where locals gather, and where visitors can get a true taste of Winston-Salem’s laid-back charm.
Hakka Chow Asian Eats: A Modern Noodle House
Hakka Chow Asian Eats elevates noodle cuisine with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations. This casual and lively spot is a local favorite for lunch and dinner, offering a diverse menu of Asian-inspired bowls, noodles, and other dishes. The star of the show is, of course, the noodles which are prepared al dente and tossed in flavorful sauces. Also, don’t miss out on their bao buns that are always cooked to perfection. Hakka Chow has carved out a niche in the food scene of Winston-Salem.
Mission Pizza Napoletana: Authentic Pizza with a Passion
For pizza aficionados, Mission Pizza Napoletana is a must-visit destination. This pizzeria is dedicated to crafting authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, using traditional techniques and the highest quality ingredients. The dough is made from scratch daily and proofed for at least hours, resulting in a light and airy crust with a characteristic char. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven at blazing temperatures, ensuring a crispy crust and perfectly melted toppings. Mission Pizza Napoletana offers a variety of classic and creative pizzas, but the Margherita, with its simple yet flavorful combination of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, is always a winner. The atmosphere is casual and lively, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Mission Pizza is passionate about pizza, and it shows in every bite.
Krankies Coffee: More Than Just Coffee, it’s Community
While technically a coffee shop, Krankies also offers an amazing food menu that cannot be overlooked. Their Bagelwich is a must have when you are in town and a classic breakfast sandwich with eggs, cheese and meat of your choice. They also have a full lunch and dinner menu with a variety of items. Beyond the food they offer live music and events that make the location more than just a restaurant. It’s a community hub.
International Flavors: A Global Gastronomic Adventure
Winston-Salem’s culinary scene is enriched by a diverse array of international restaurants, each offering a unique taste of a different culture. From authentic Mexican cuisine to flavorful Vietnamese dishes, these establishments provide a global gastronomic adventure without ever leaving the city.
Camel City BBQ Factory: The Best BBQ in Town
Winston-Salem is a great location for barbecue but none better than Camel City BBQ Factory. They make everything from scratch daily, so you will be getting a fresh bite every single time. Some of the highlights are their pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. All of the meats are cooked to perfection and melted in your mouth. Make sure to try the sauces.
Pho Saigon: A Taste of Vietnam in Winston-Salem
Pho Saigon transports diners to the bustling streets of Vietnam with its authentic and flavorful cuisine. The restaurant specializes in pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, made with a rich and aromatic broth, tender rice noodles, and a variety of meats and vegetables. The pho broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Pho Saigon also offers a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and vermicelli bowls. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. Pho Saigon is a true gem in Winston-Salem’s international culinary landscape.
El Rancho Taqueria: Authentic Mexican Cuisine
El Rancho Taqueria is a favorite of the local community. The authentic flavors and lively atmosphere make this a go to for lunch and dinner. They serve a variety of Mexican food from Tacos to Burritos and everything in between. Make sure to try some of their specialty drinks.
Sweet Sensations: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet ending. Winston-Salem offers a delightful selection of bakeries, ice cream shops, and dessert bars, each offering a unique array of delectable treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Camino Bakery: Artisan Breads and Pastries
Camino Bakery is a haven for bread lovers and pastry enthusiasts. This artisan bakery crafts a variety of breads, pastries, and cakes from scratch, using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Their croissants are flaky and buttery, their sourdough bread is tangy and chewy, and their cakes are moist and flavorful. Camino Bakery also offers a selection of coffee and tea, making it a perfect spot for a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air. Camino Bakery is a true gem in Winston-Salem’s culinary landscape.
Bobby Boy Bakeshop: A Modern Day Bakery
Bobby Boy Bakeshop, owned by chef Bobby McFarland, is a modern bakery that is dedicated to perfecting the classics. The offerings at Bobby Boy change with the seasons, allowing their team to create something new while using the best ingredients at any given time. The store opened in the fall of and has quickly become a hit in the local community.
Karam’s Lebanese Restaurant: The Only Dessert you Need
Karam’s Lebanese Restaurant has a dessert that cannot be topped. Their baklava. Its a mixture of nuts, dough and a honey sauce that will make your mouth water.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Winston-Salem’s culinary scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences. From upscale fine dining to casual local haunts and exotic international cuisine, the city offers something to satisfy every palate and craving. The restaurants highlighted in this guide represent just a taste of what Winston-Salem has to offer, so venture out, explore, and discover your own favorite spots. The Twin City is waiting to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, embrace your inner foodie and embark on a culinary adventure in Winston-Salem – you won’t be disappointed.
