Best Places to Eat in Winston-Salem

Are you moving to Winston-Salem, NC? Add these 15 delicious Winston-Salem restaurants to your bucket list!

Made up of brick buildings and industrial smokestacks, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, might be a town built on tobacco, but this lively city certainly knows a thing or two about food.

While Winston-Salem may be the birthplace of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Texas Pete Hot Sauce, and Miss Jenny's Pickles, this city is continually redefining its dining scene and has found a way to blend Southern American traditions with international influences.

Since Winston-Salem has so many restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out where you should eat next. Luckily, with the help of this restaurant guide, our team has put together a list of the best restaurants in Winston-Salem to help narrow down your search.

Whether you are craving fried chicken or want to try some authentic Thai favorites, Winston-Salem is home to a variety of five-star restaurants, cozy cafes, unique eateries, and locally-owned taverns that will have you coming back for more.

So if you are moving to Winston-Salem or planning your next vacation to the "Camel City," then read on to learn more about the 15 Best Restaurants in Winston-Salem, NC!

Real Q

Do you love all things barbecue? Then make sure to visit Real Q in Winston-Salem!

Serving real pit-cooked Lexington-style barbeque since 1991, there is no better place in Winston-Salem to enjoy an authentic, high-quality barbecue.

As part of the NCBS Historic Barbecue Trail, a barbecue trail from Eastern North Carolina to Tennesee, Real Q Barbeque is stop number 11 on the course and is the only stop in Winston-Salem.

Cooking pork shoulders over wood coals between 10 to 12 hours and then serving it smothered in the restaurant's secret sauce, diners can order sandwiches, chopped trays, and plates.

Plus, serving classic southern sides such as hush puppies, corn fritters, coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad, it is no wonder that Real Q is a favorite among the locals.

Make sure to save room for the homemade banana pudding and mouthwatering Boston Cream Pie.

Camel City BBQ Factory

Located on North Liberty Street in Winston-Salem, Camel City BBQ Factory is a great place to meet family and friends downtown to enjoy pulled pork, brisket, and good drinks.

Serving pulled pork sandwiches, brisket plates, ribs, turkey melts, and wings alongside collard greens, macaroni and cheese, fried okra, and other southern sides, dining at this barbecue restaurant is a must-do when in Winston-Salem.

Plus, with a kid's menu consisting of chicken tenders, grilled cheese, barbecue sandwiches, and hot dogs, all ages will love eating here.

Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro

The downtown Winston-Salem restaurant of Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro is known for its great food, excellent service, and fantastic atmosphere.

Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro has a large selection of menu items specializing in southern cuisine, including cheese grits, macaroni and cheese, spicy collard greens, fried chicken, and gourmet meatloaf to choose from that will appeal to anyone.

Open since 2008 and using only the best ingredients from local farms, Mozelle's happily accommodates any dietary restrictions and provides both vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Both dine-in and takeout options are offered, so you can make sure you have a table for your party.

Fratellis Italian Steakhouse Winston-Salem

If you are in the mood for fine Italian cuisine, look no further than Fratellis Italian Steakhouse in Winston-Salem.

Found near the campus of Wake Forest University, Fratellis serves authentic Italian dishes, steak, and seafood entrees in a modern and upscale setting.

With a menu ranging from fettuccine and calamari to delicious lasagna and chicken marsala, this Italian steakhouse has a mission to go above and beyond and serve distinguished food and craft cocktails with a smile.

Even though menu items may be more expensive, patrons only pay for the best high-quality ingredients and a fantastic experience.

So that you know, only open for dinner and is closed on Mondays during the week; please make sure to call ahead to make a reservation in advance since tables tend to fill up quickly.

The Old Fourth Street Filling Station

The Old Fourth Street Filling Station is an upscale and classy New American restaurant with a romantic outdoor terrace and a cozy bar with a fireplace inside.

Taking fine dining to a new level, this restaurant serves modern offerings while paying tribute to the distinct charm and character of the historic West End of Winston-Salem.

Known as a great place to enjoy delicious food and daily specials for a special occasion or date night, The Old Fourth Street Filling Station will always satisfy your food cravings.

Serving lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, some of the most popular items on the menu include the pimento cheese dip, eggplant ratatouille pasta, Carolina shrimp and grits, and creamy tortellini; there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Plus, with a full bar and an extensive list of wines, you can choose craft cocktails while eating your meal.

The Porch Kitchen and Cantina

The Porch Kitchen and Cantina is located on Mills Work Street in Winston-Salem and is a local favorite Tex-Mex restaurant with fresh food, creative menu selections, and a lively atmosphere.

Known for its cocktails, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, The Porch Kitchen and Cantina does a great job accommodating food allergies and dietary restrictions by offering both gluten-free and vegetarian options.

The most popular menu items include breakfast burritos, french toast casseroles, rice bowls, fajita dinners, and chopped salads.

With a large selection of cocktails to choose from, have your choice of classic mimosas, bloody marys, margaritas, and mojitos. Plus, with several rotating drafts, pints are sold for only $6.

Springhouse Restaurant, Kitchen, and Bar

This three-dollar sign American restaurant called the Springhouse Restaurant, Kitchen, and Bar is located in the middle of downtown Winston-Salem and was initially opened in April 2012.

Found in a beautiful historic home that was built in the 1920s, the Springhouse Restaurant, Kitchen, and Bar is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been restored to reflect the history and charm of Winston-Salem.

Serving phenomenal American cuisine with top-notch service in a friendly atmosphere, dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday between the hours of five and nine.

Offering a seasonal menu and a wide selection of drinks and desserts, dine on jambalaya, soups, salads, sandwiches, and flavorful entrees, including fresh-caught seafood, steak, and pork shank.

The Springhouse Restaurant, Kitchen, and Bar are also used frequently for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and private parties.

Sweet Potatoes

The award-winning southern restaurant of Sweet Potatoes is situated in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem and is known for its award-winning fried chicken and soul food staples.

Serving unique menu items inspired by the south and classic favorites, including fried okra and green tomatoes, there is always something delicious cooking in the Sweet Potatoes kitchen.

Even though Sweet Potatoes does not take reservations, this restaurant only uses the finest ingredients and is beloved for its family-friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff.

While dining at Sweet Potatoes, make sure to order the sweet potatoes hot brown, the pan of sweet potato cornbread, and decide to build your sweet potato filled with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar.

Bleu Restaurant and Bar

Specializing in fresh seafood and American favorites, Bleu Restaurant and Bar, located on Frontis Street in Winston-Salem, is the go-to place for fabulous food, fantastic drinks, and good service.

Described as an upscale, casual contemporary restaurant, Bleu Restaurant and Bar serves lunch, dinner, and brunch favorites every day of the week.

Whether you order the surf and turf, the grilled Atlantic salmon, the chicken penne pasta, or the crab and shrimp cakes, every item on the menu is guaranteed to taste magnificent.

6th and Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar

Providing both indoor dining and outdoor seating on a large patio that is heated and covered, the 6th and Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar in downtown Winston-Salem is the perfect hangout spot to enjoy some great food and a nice glass of vino.

Offering lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch served until three in the afternoon, dining at 6th, and Vine is undoubtedly an experience unlike any other city.

Featuring an eclectic and funky space and serving more than 20 wines by the glass, some of the most popular food items on the menu include flatbreads, wings, nachos, tacos, baked brie, and the cheeseboard.

The Katherine Brasserie and Bar

Considered the perfect place for an intimate date night, The Katherine Brasserie and Bar in downtown Winston-Salem is a traditional brasserie serving contemporary southern fare with a modern twist on French classics.

Found in the former R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company building, which was initially opened in 1875, this restaurant pays homage to Katherine Reynolds, who was the wife of the founder of this famous tobacco company.

Embracing this historic location and traditional French design, this restaurant features elegant spaces, tons of natural light, rich patterns, vibrant colors, and airy interiors that make The Katherine Brasserie and Bar a staple of the city.

With Executive Chef Eric Brownlee running the show, menu items such as ratatouille, steak frites, salads, and charcuterie are offered.

Village Tavern

Village Tavern in Winston-Salem has two locations in the city, one on Griffith Road and the other in the Reynolda Historic District.

Serving a wide variety of American favorites and an extensive selection of wines, Village Tavern is an unforgettable dining experience that uses only the freshest ingredients possible.

Opened in 1984, this restaurant started with the mission to serve delicious food at an affordable price and has since become one of the best restaurants in Winston-Salem.

Village Tavern provides excellent food to residents daily, offers indoor and outdoor dining options, and is best known for its gourmet burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, and mouthwatering entrees.

Village Juice and Kitchen

The downtown Winston-Salem favorite of Village Juice and Kitchen will soon become your city's go-to juice bar and health food eatery.

With one location in Charlotte and two in Winston-Salem, order fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls, avocado toast, salads, and grain bowls in a simple and bright atmosphere.

Open daily throughout the week, Village Juice and Kitchen is the perfect spot for clean eating and food that is good for your body.

Young Cardinal Cafe and Co.

If you are looking for a relaxed and trendy spot for tasty and classic breakfast and lunch favorites, then make sure to add Young Cardinal Cafe and Co. to your Winston-Salem restaurant bucket list.

Situated in downtown Winston-Salem, this cute and cozy cafe cooks with only the best and freshest ingredients to create simple yet sophisticated dishes.

While inside, drop by the coffee bar and order an espresso or a latte while waiting for your food or sip while catching up on some work.

The Basil Leaf Thai and Sushi Restaurant

Considered one of the top restaurants in town for sushi, vegetarian dishes, and authentic Thai cuisine, The Basil Leaf Thai and Sushi Restaurant in Winston-Salem is renowned for its locally sourced ingredients and refined flavors.

With one location in High Point and the other in Winston Salem at The Shops At St George Street, this restaurant keeps growing and impressing the locals with its tasty Asian delicacies.

The Basil Leaf Thai and Sushi Restaurant is closed on Mondays but is open for lunch and dinner every other day of the week.

Where will you eat first in Winston-Salem, NC?

Whether you enjoy tasty southern food or dine on cuisine inspired by international flavors, the food in Winston-Salem is always mouthwatering and will have you returning for seconds.

While the restaurants listed in this guide have been named some of the best in Winston-Salem, plenty of other fantastic restaurants in the city deserve to be recognized and celebrated.

Whether you are hunting for the top restaurants near the best neighborhoods in Winston-Salem or want to make lunch and dinner reservations when planning a quick day trip, there is always a new restaurant to discover.

Contact us today if you want to learn more about the local cuisine in the area before buying a home in Winston-Salem!