Winston-Salem Restaurants
Eating Out in Winston-Salem
Looking at the restaurants in Winston-Salem, it would be easy to conclude that the city's residents aren't big risk takers. You can find examples of almost all the large chains, from steakhouses to international fare to fast-food burger and fries.
But if you are willing to get away from the city's main retail areas, you can find a good range of food choices at moderate prices. There's plenty of traditional American fare from dirt cheap to surprisingly expensive; southern and comfort food restaurants from cafeteria style to white-table cloth establishments; and a heavy dose of diners, many run by Greeks.
Where are the Ethnic and International Flavors?
What Winston-Salem lacks is a broad range of ethnic and international flavors. Sure, there is an abundance of Mexican, sushi and Chinese takeout. But if you want Middle Eastern, El Salvadoran, Cuban or Vietnamese, you have about one choice in town. Interested in Korean, Brazilian or African? You'll need to get in the car and drive to Greensboro or the Triangle.
But not all is lost. There is good food to be found in the Twin City. The list below should not be considered comprehensive. New restaurants open and close every day, sometimes with little notice. It also does not include national chains - you can find them listed in the phone book or with a quick web search. The list also leaves out hotel restaurants. Again, nothing personal, but if you're staying in a hotel you'll know about them. Instead, we're tried to focus on the independents or local chains. And in each category, we've included a suggested list of best bets based on quality, price, service and value.
Winston-Salem Restaurants : Category Listing (Alphabetical)
- American | more
- Asian | more
- Bakeries | more
- BBQ | more
- Cafeteria | more
- Caribbean
- Deli | more
- Fine Dining | more
- Greek | more
- Indian
- Irish
- Italian | more
- Mexican | more
- Pizzeria | more
- Seafood
- Soul Food | more
- Southern
- Steak | more
American Restaurants in Winston-Salem
American restaurants bring together the best of our different regions, ethnic groups and traditions to create something unique and different. There is an abundance of restaurants in Winston-Salem that serve some degree of American food. Here are some recommendations:
Bibs Downtown
675 West 5th St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
Specializing in smoked beef, pork, chicken, turkey and sausages with plenty of yummy side dishes.
The Carving Board
318 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Thruway Shopping Center)
336-748-9118
A dependable deli with a wide range of salads, made-to-order sandwiches and desserts. Since things are priced by weight, you bill can add up quickly but the food is delicious every time.
Grace's Cafe at Whole Foods
41 Miller St., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336.722.9233
Why put a grocery store on this list? Because the food is good, fresh and fairly inexpensive. Choose from a hot bar with a menu that varies daily, a cold bar, sushi, pizza or gelato, and that's just to get started.
Hutch and Harris
424 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336 721-1366
Thoughtful and varied menu, knowledgeable servers and a comfortable but grownup atmosphere. Selections include fish, beef, a traditional chicken pie and vegetarian dishes.
Breakfast of Course, Mary's Too
723 Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown/Brookstown)
336-725-5764 (for now)
We're basing this suggestion on the wonderful food served at this restaurant's predecessor, Mary's of Course. Mary's of Course served breakfast and brunch all day, but it was no Waffle House. We're talking pimento cheese omelets, tofu specialties and granola made of local ingredients. Breakfast of Course is scheduled to open on June 4, 2010, in a bigger location and with a bigger focus on breakfast, of course.
Old Salem Tavern
736 S. Main St. , Winston-Salem (Old Salem/Brookstown)
336-748-8585
It's strange to see Asian Spiced Duck Breast on the list of foods served in a Winston-Salem building that dates back to 1816. So look for what the Moravian's do best - like Moravian chicken pie, pot roast and sauerkraut stew on the lunch menu.
Skippy's Hot Dogs
624 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-722-3422
People in Winston-Salem aren't as passionate about hot dogs as they are barbecue, but it's close. PB's Takeout is a perennial favorite, but it you want something different, try Skippy's. They serve all beef franks on grilled pretzel rolls with 13 toppings from which to choose.
Ted's Famous Chicken, AKA Ted's Kickin Chicken
4695 S. Main St., Winston-Salem (South Winston)
336-650-0290
Ted's isn't the hole in the wall it used to be, but the food is still good. Stick with the chicken - half birds, quarter birds, sandwiches, wraps or wings. You can get a chopped chicken sandwich with "fixins" for $3.75.
Village Tavern
2000 Griffith Rd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336.760.8686
There are two locations for this small chain based in Winston-Salem. The original village tavern is in Reynolda Village. This one, although in the congested mall area, often times seems to have better service. The food is reliable with a wide variety of price points and choices ranging from salads, sandwiches and small pizzas to an almost $30 steak. If you're taking a break from healthy eating, try the tavern's homemade chips with ranch dressing.
West End Cafe
926 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown/West End)
336-723-4774
With its pretty little koi pond in front, you can almost forget this restaurant is steps from downtown. The café's specialty is chili, with sandwiches and salads rounding out the menu. With many made-to-order options, you can fill almost any craving here.
More Winston-Salem American Restaurants
1st Street Draught House
1500 W. First St., Winston-Salem (Ardmore)
336-722-6950
Acadia Grill
200 W. Acadia Ave., Winston-Salem (South Winston)
336-724-1911
Big Shotz Tavern
109 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford/Five Points)
336-727-4490
Billy Bob's Silver Diner
1650 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-0654
Bleu Restaurant & Bar
3425 Frontis St., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-760-2026
Boomr'z
3441 Myer Lee Drive, Winston-Salem (Business 40)
336-293-4349
Cafe Arthur's
1416 S. Hawthorne Road, Winston-Salem (Ardmore)
336.725.4548
Cagney's
2201 Cloverdale Ave., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336.724.0940
Carriage House Restaurant
1409 G. South Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-765-8082
Cities Grill & Bar
2438 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-765-9027
Cloverdale Kitchen
22251 Cloverdale, Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-725-4701
Corbin's Bar & Grill
520 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-3301
Diamondback Grill
751 N. Avalon Rd., Winston-Salem (Buena Vista)
336-722-0006
Downtown Deli and Cafe
1 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-721-1750
Duke's Restaurant
4875 Country Club Rd., Winston-Salem (Country Club/Jonestown/Peace Haven)
336.768.1192
Foothills Brewing
638 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336.777.3348
Goody's Family Restaurant
599 Bethesda Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-765-3100
Grill-Ville
902 E. Sprague St., Winston-Salem (North Carolina School of the Arts/ Waughtown)
336-788-7282
Jimmy the Greek's Kitchen
2806 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-722-0184
Kernel Kustard
1630 Fox Trot Court, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-1085
310 W. Fourth St. (Downtown)
336-793-8888
K&W Cafeteria
North University Parkway, Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-661-0504
3169 Peters Creek Parkway Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-785-4972
3300 Healy Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-768-1066
Kopper Kitchen
241 W. Fifth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-724-2691
Lighthouse Grill
905 Burke St., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-724-9619
Mayberry's Ice Cream Restaurant
50 Miller St. #A, Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-724-3682
114 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Village)
336-722-5888
900 Old Salem Road, Winston-Salem (Old Salem)
336-499-7953
Midtown Cafe & Dessertery
151 S. Stratford Rd., Winston-Salem (Stratford/Five Points)
336-724-9800
Mr. Waffle
649 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (West Salem area)
336- 724-1294
Mountain Fried Chicken
507 Akron Drive, Winston-Salem (East Winston)
336-767-1675
5908 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-377-2010
NOMA Urban Bar and Grill
321 W. Fourth St. Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-703-5112
O'Brien's Deli
4001 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem (South Fork/Country Club
336-765-9722
Olde Orchard Diner
2991 Old Salisbury Road (Waughtown)
336-650-1612
Omega House
1488 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (West Salem/Peters Creek)
336-724-5262
O'So Eats
299 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-293-6371
PB'S Takeout
1412 S. Hawthorne Road, Winston-Salem (Ardmore)
336- 748-8990
Ranch-O-Drive In Restaurant
3020 Kernersville Road, Winston-Salem (Waughtown/UNCSA)
336-784-5353
River Birch Lodge
3324 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem 27106 (Polo/Robinhood/Sherwood Forest)
336-768-1111
Salem Kitchen
50 Miller St., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-722-1155
Simplyummy (Simply Yummy)
122 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Village)
336-724-9779
Stratford Station Grill
828 Stratford Road (Stratford)
336-659-1983
The Old Fourth Street Filling Station
871 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-724-7600
Twin City Diner
1425 W. First St., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-724-4203
Village Tavern
221 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Village)
336-748-0221
Waldo's Wings
2855 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Buena Vista/Reynolda Historic District)
336-703-0230
Asian Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Maybe it's related to the city's small Asian population, but Winston-Salem doesn't have much to offer in the way of excellent Chinese, Japanese, Thai or any other foods that typically fall under the category of Asian, although when it comes to Thai food and sushi there are some options. Here are some recommendations:
Cha Da Thai
420 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-659-8466
Good selection and wonderful food with offerings far a field from pad thai, although it is in a strip mall that can be difficult to access. Service is typically outstanding without being obtrusive.
Ichiban
270 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Thruway)
336-725-3050
One of the first, if not the first, sushi restaurants in Winston-Salem. Whether you eat at the sushi bar or a table, you'll enjoy top-quality sushi, although not the most inventive. Any dish on the teriyaki menu will be reasonably affordable and plentiful.
Ishi Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar
121 Stark St., Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-774-0433
Ishi can be difficult to find in its location tucked back off of Stratford Road, but keep looking - it's worth it. The sushi varieties are more inventive than other sushi places in Winston-Salem, including vegetarian sushi choices. On more than one occasion we've spied pepper plants and herbs growing in pots outside the restaurant.
Sampan Chinese Restaurant
985 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-777-8266
The proprietress of Sampan keeps the restaurant dimly lit, which sets a romantic atmosphere but also hides years of wear in the dining room. But compared to most Chinese restaurants in town, it stands out for its beauty. There's no buffet or sushi, but you'll find the choices typical of most Chinese restaurants in the U.S. For a different and more satisfying experience, explore the extended authentic menu with its hotpot and casseroles.
Thai Sawatdee (Inside Harris Teeter)
2281 Cloverdale Ave., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-725-1332
Thai Sawatdee recently opened a second location at 3064 Healy Drive, so the Thai Sawatdee at Harris-Teeter is now takeout only. Let's hope the new restaurant finds the same magic -- food prepared quickly, very fresh, with generous servings and spiciness to order.
Xia Asian Fusion Cuisine
134 N. Spruce St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-723-1400
If Xia would just call itself a Vietnamese restaurant … The décor is gorgeous in this intimate yet affordable restaurant. Some of the dishes on the menu are found maybe in only one other restaurant in Winston-Salem. So go for the pho, the lemongrass chicken or the Singapore street noodles, or the Vietnamese black pepper shrimp and chicken.
More Winston-Salem Asian Restaurants
Arigato Japanese Steakhouse
2995 Bethesda Place, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-765-7798
Asian Café
386 E. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
China Buffet
984 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Cree/Peters Creek)
336-722-9818
China Restaurant
2510 Somerset Center Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-768-8898
China Restaurant
3491 N. Patterson Ave., Winston-Salem (North Winston)
336-744-1223
Downtown Thai
219 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-777-1422
Dynasty Buffet
1986 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-659-3868
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
3548 Yadkinville Road, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-922-5300
Hong Kong King Buffet
1237 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-725-9880
Kowloon Restaurant
2255 Cloverdale Ave., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-724-6907
Kanpai Steak & Seafood House
1438 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-7799
Kyoto Fantasy Express
204 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Thruway)
336-724-2235
Malay Chinese Kitchen
2840 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Buena Vista)
336-722-7750
Mr. Lu Restaurant
1479 New Walkertown Road, Winston-Salem (East Winston)
336-725-9969
Miyako
5086 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-785-3638
Nine Dragon Palace
5083 N. University Parkway, Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-767-7743
Oriental Cafe
612 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-774-9098
Peking Kitchen
3214 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-659-0295
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
548 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-777-8744 336-777-8744
Soup's Vietnamese Pho and Grill
219 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-917-3000
Sushi Thai
826 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-765-7890
Szechuan Palace
3040 Healy Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-768-7123
Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse
1111 Salisbury Ridge Road, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-722-5009
Tokyo Shapiro
215 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-725-4141
Bakeries and Coffee Shops in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is the home of Krispy Kreme, so we take our sweets and coffee very seriously. But there are plenty of options for people who prefer baked treats that are less sugary. Here are some recommendations to help fill your cravings:
Bagel Station
129 Oakwood Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-724-3949
For 20 years, the no-frills Bagel Station has been turning out delicious bagels. Other stores have come and gone but the Bagel Station survives on its quality, simple menu and friendly service. You'll find what you need here in terms or bagels and spreads and it's all extremely fresh.
Dewey's Bakery
262 S. Stratford Road (Thruway)
336-725-8321
2820 Reynolda Road (Wake Forest University)
336-724-0559
Dewey's is a Winston-Salem tradition, although efforts in recent years to "go corporate" have some people complaining that the stores have lost their charm and the sweets themselves aren't quiet as special. Still, it's worth checking out the pink lemonade cake in the spring and summer, and with options including cake squares, éclairs and turnovers, there's something for about any appetite.
Dioli's Italian Market
2898 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Road)
336-724-9900
There's nothing like Dioli's in Winston-Salem. It offers an ample deli, as well as a bakery that uses authentic Italian recipes to create tiramisu, cannoli, sfogiatelle, zeppole and cream puffs. Or choose from coffee cakes, cinnamon roles, turnovers and other delights.
Krispy Kreme Doughnut Company
259 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-724-2484
We'll make an exception to focus on independents over chains when it comes to Krispy Kreme, which is headquartered in Winston-Salem. If you've only tried Krispy Kremes from a grocery or convenience store, you haven't had the true doughnut experience. Stop when the "Hot Doughnuts Now" sign is lit to watch behind glass as doughnuts come off a conveyor, float through hot oil and travel through the glazing machine.
Ollie's Bakery
300 Marshall St. South, Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-727-0404
Locals swear by the artisan breads baked at Ollie's. It is a true bakery, offering breads, pastries and dessert with the freshest ingredients. The selection of breads available depends on the day of the week; go early for the most choices. Ollie's also offers baking classes.
Winkler Bakery - Old Salem
527 S. Main St., Winston-Salem (Old Salem)
336-721-7302
A visit to Winkler Bakery brings history to life and plenty of mouth-watering choices to fill your tummy. Costumed interpreters explain how the bakery operated when Old Salem was an outpost in the wilderness. Choose from impossibly thin Moravian ginger or sugar cookies, Moravian sugar cakes or bread. You can also pick up packaged mixes of your favorites to bake at home.
More Winston-Salem Bakeries and Coffee Shops
Camino Bakery
211 E. Third St. (Downtown)
336-721-9990
Chelsea's Coffee Shop & More
533 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-703-1503
Simplyummy
122 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Village)
336-724-9779
Starbucks
Multiple locations
Barbecue Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Quite frankly, Lexington is the self-professed "barbecue capital of the world," so most places in Winston-Salem are trying to keep up. A few are worth a special mention but if you want a slew of choices, head south down U.S. 52 for all that Lexington offers.
Bibs Downtown
675 West 5th St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-722-0007
Specializing in smoked beef, pork, chicken, turkey and sausage with plenty of yummy side dishes. It's like upscale barbecue compared to many joints in Winston-Salem.
Little Richard's Lexington BBQ
4885 Country Club Road (Jonestown/Country Club)
336-760-3457
Little Richard offers chopped pork, pulled pork and coarse chopped pork in quantities ranging from trays to plates to the pound for to-go orders. The restaurant is known for its tangy "dip," which is heavy on the vinegar and pepper. Barbecue chicken is also available on the weekends. There's a second Little Richards at 5353 Gumtree Road.
More Winston-Salem Barbecue Restaurants
Don's BBQ and Restaurant
113 Old Hollow Road, Winston-Salem (East Winston)
336-767-0422
Hill's Lexington BBQ (North University)
North University Parkway
336-767-2184 336-767-2184
Honky Tonk Pig Smokehouse
145 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-794-2270
J.S. Pulliam Barbecue
4358 Old Walkertown Road, Winston-Salem (North Winston)
336-767-2211
Mr. Barbecue
1381 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-725-7827
Pig Pickin's
3650 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Road/Old Town)
336-923-2285
Ted's Kickin' Chicken
4695 S. Main St., Winston-Salem (South Winston)
336-650-0290
Cafeterias in Winston-Salem
Cafeterias are a Southern tradition, where you can find a wide range of comfort food for a low price. We're talking chicken fried steak, chicken and dumplings, gravy with all kinds of meat, and pies with mile-high meringue. You'll also hear them referred to as "meat and threes" for the main dish of meat and three sides. Here is a recommendation:
K&W Cafeteria
3169 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Cree/Peters Creek)
336.785.4972
3300 Healy Drive, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
36-768-1066
800 E. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-661-0504
For the best bet in Winston-Salem, try K&W, a locally owned chain known for its good home-style cooking, and a staff that is quick with the "hons" and "dears." And they're sincere when they say them, too.
More Winston-Salem Cafeterias
Bell and Sons Cafeteria
4374 N. Liberty St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-767-0703
Meta's Restaurant
102 W. Third St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-750-0811
Murphy's 2010
207 W. Third St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-723-5378
Caribbean Restaurants in Winston-Salem
With the closing of two restaurants in the last year, this category is noticeably thin.
Rana Loca
411 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-722-9911
Rana Loca bills itself as "Winston-Salem's premier Latin restaurant" and offers several Cuban and Caribbean dishes. The menu includes a Cuban sandwich, a ropa viejo sandwich and fish tacos. Side dishes include yucca, plantains and black beans and rice.
Delis in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is far from New York in nearly every way, and that's not a bad thing. Still, our city still boasts some good delis and sandwich shops.
Here are some good choices:
The Carving Board
318 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Thruway)
336-748-9118
A dependable deli with a wide range of salads, made-to-order sandwiches and desserts. Since things are priced by weight, you bill can add up quickly but the food is delicious every time.
O'Briens' Deli
4001 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem (South Fork)
336-765-9722
The sandwiches at O'Briens' aren't cheap, but they sure are big. The deli itself is tiny with only a few tables. But the service is quick so you might as well get your orders to go. People rave about the corned beef sandwiches, the Rueben, and O'Briens' chicken salad.
The Olive Tree Deli
580 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-723-4224
The Olive Tree is a sandwich shop, not a deli. However, the sandwiches are dirt cheap and high quality. Housed in a former Taco Bell, the flavors are more Greek than American with a menu heavy on gyros, souvlaki and pita sandwiches.
More Winston-Salem Delis
Bagel Station
129 Oakwood Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-724-3959
Center City Grille
One West Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-331-0129
Downtown Deli & Cafe
1 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-721-1750
Mrs. Pumpkin's Bakery and Deli
3645 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-924-9797
Rose's Deli
5000 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-744-9543
TJ'S Deli
5017 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem (Country Club/Jonestown/Peace Haven)
336-760-0488
Upper Deck Grill
200 W. Second St., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-777-0772
Fine Dining Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Fine dining in Winston-Salem doesn't always mean white tablecloths. It's a broad category that suggests you'll feel more comfortable in these establishments if you change out of a t-shirt and shorts. In fact, one restaurant regularly reminds prospective customers that it has a dress code. So bear that in mind when considering this list of "fine dining" restaurants.
Here are some recommendations:
Bernardin's
901 W. Fourth St. Winston-Salem (West End)
336-725-6666
Bernardin's recently moved from a tired strip mall into a historic West End home, upping the atmosphere. Before the move, it was described in a local newspaper as the Triad region's only five star restaurant. The dinner menu offers what you'd expect, as well as ostrich and Australian lamb loin. Meals typically run $40 a person with wine.
Christopher's Cuisine
712 Brookstown Ave., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-724-1395
Christopher's is located in an old wood-framed house on the edge of downtown. You'll dine in one of the home's beautifully decorated rooms, and enjoy a wide range of selections. Chef Christopher Fulk is known for his inventiveness and unusual but delicious pairings.
Noble's Grille
380 Knollwood St., Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-777-8477
Noble's feels like fine dining from the moment you walk through the door. The food is well thought out, the presentation is outstanding and the service is attentive but not snobby. The chef features regional food on his menu in inventive ways.
Ryan's Steaks, Chops & Seafood
719 Coliseum Drive, Winston-Salem (Coliseum)
336-724-6132
Ryan's is an old-school choice, from the décor to the menu. That said, the food is consistently good, the portions are plentiful and the service is typically friendly. The dining room windows look out on a wooded landscape.
Sweet Potatoes
529 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-727-4844
Sweet Potatoes may have the most buzz of any restaurant that has opened in the arts district. With its focus on upscale southern foods, it's a comfortable place for lunch as well as a fine dining establishment at dinner time.
More Winston-Salem Fine Dining Restaurants
1703 Restaurant
1703 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem (Buena Vista)
336-725-5767
Bleu Restaurant and Bar
3425 Frontis St., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-760-2026
Fabian's (home of the famous $100 dinners)
1100 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Buena Vista)
336- 723-7700
Meridian Restaurant
411 S. Marshall St. #101, Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-722-8889
Milner's American Southern (home of the famous breaded pickle)
630 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-768-2221
Mozelle's
878 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-703-5400
Newtown Bistro and Bar
420 Jonestown Road #U, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336- 659-8062
Ombu Wood Fired Fusion (has undergone several ownership changes recently)
615 Saint George Square Court, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-293-4346
Par 3 Bistro
3870 Bethania Station Road, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Road area)
336-924-5850
River Birch Lodge
3324 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem 27106 (Polo/Robinhood/Sherwood Forest)
336-768-1111
The Vineyards
120 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Village)
336-748-0269
Greek Restaurants in Winston-Salem
For all the restaurants owned by people who are of Greek descent, there are few really good Greek restaurants in Winston-Salem. To be sure, half the cafes and diners in town have souvlaki or Greek spaghetti on their menus. But only a few have more than those offerings. Here are some recommendations:
Athena Greek Taverna
680 S. Stratford Road (Stratford area)
336-794-3069
Athena is the only semi-upscale Greek restaurant here in town. Here you'll find saganaki (cheese set aflame in brandy), a yummy kalamari, as well as moussaka, pastitsio, lukaniko and a sampler platter of dishes. They even have some good vegetarian choices.
The Olive Tree Deli
580 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-723-4224
The Olive Tree is a sandwich shop, not a deli. However, the sandwiches are dirt cheap and high quality. Housed in a former Taco Bell, the flavors are more Greek than American with a menu heavy on gyros, souvlaki and pita sandwiches.
More Winston-Salem Greek Restaurants
Alex's Cafe
750 Summit St., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-722-9080
Goody's Restaurant
599 Bethesda Place, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-765-3100
Grecian Corner
101 Eden Terrace, Winston-Salem (Ardmore)
336-722-6937
Jimmy the Greek Kitchen
2806 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-722-0184
Teddy G's
3478 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem (Polo/Robinhood/Sherwood)
336-760-3711
Indian Restaurants in Winston-Salem
It seemed like Indian was all the rage for a brief moment in the city's recent history, but that moment passed quickly. What remains are three restaurants, each with their distinctions. Golden India has a wonderful Indian grocery store that offers fresh produce, and Nawab offers an elegant atmosphere. But many folks give Turmeric first place when it comes to the quality and variety of its menu, which features dishes from the northern and southern regions; the helpfulness and friendliness of its staff; and its overall value.
Turmeric Restaurant and Bar
3088 Healy Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-794-8282
Golden India Restaurant
2837 Fairlawn Drive, Winston-Salem (Wake Forest University)
336-777-0004
Nawab Indian Cuisine
129 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-725-3949
Irish Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem's two Irish restaurants are within blocks of each other. Finnegan's has a good reputation for brunch and as a fun place to hang out as a bar. The Celtic Café is the place to go to hear Irish music. Both places have their loyal fans with favorite dishes, although Finnegan's appears to have more traditional dishes while the Celtic Café actually offers pizza and wraps.
Celtic Cafe (now at a new location with patio at the former Marshal St. Smokehouse)
924 S. Marshall St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-703-0641
Finnegan's Wake
620 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-723-0322
Italian Restaurants in Winston-Salem
You can find the chain Italian places in Winston-Salem such as Olive Garden, Carrabba's Italian Grill and Romano's Macaroni Grill. And truth be told, they are stiff competition for the locally owned restaurants. But some of the independents are excellent in every way, just off the beaten path. Here are some recommendations:
B.L.L. Rotisserie Factory
380 Knollwood St., Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-725-7071
Many locals don't know this place exists even though it's just off well-traveled Stratford Road. It's a tiny place, but the food is fantastic, with thick, not-too-sweet, not-too-salty sauces, a wide selection of pasta dishes with veal or chicken, and the usual strombolis, calzones and pizza. The prices may seem a little high for the atmosphere, which is laid back and friendly. But the food is worth it.
Dioli's Italian Market
2898 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Reynolda Road)
336-724-9900
There's nothing like Dioli's in Winston-Salem. It offers an ample deli, with sausages, handcrafted salami and Italian regional specialty cheeses used to make some of its specialty sandwiches. Finish off your meal with tiramisu, cannoli or Italian cream-filled puffs.
Francesco's Pizza & Italian Restaurant
336 Summit Square Blvd., Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-377-3332
420-M Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-774-8758
Francesco's also has a location off of Jonestown Road which was previously called Franco's. What does Francesco's do right that two locations? Well, the food is extremely fresh, the portions are large and the prices are reasonable. They know Italian food - the co-owner grew up in Naples.
More Winston-Salem Italian Restaurants
Elizabeth's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
3278 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-0605
Paul's Fine Italian Dining
3443 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem (Polo/Robinhood/Sherwood Forest)
336-768-2645
Vincenzo's
3449 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem (Polo/Robinhood/Sherwood Forest)
336-765-3176
Mexican Restaurants in Winston-Salem
For many years, the only choices for Mexican food in Winston-Salem were at restaurants so fully Americanized you were lucky to find a jalapeno, never mind a habanero. But luckily the city's growing Latin population has helped bring more flavor and authenticity to town. Here are some recommendations.
La Botana
1547 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-6588
The food critic for the local paper loves La Botana for its authenticity and inventiveness. The chef is always changing up the menu, which also features outstanding regional and traditional dishes. The only downside is its location in a non-descript strip mall, but the food and service will make you feel miles away.
Las Estrellas
845 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-724-1893
Las Estrellas is in a former Pizza Hut, but don't let that dissuade you from giving it a try. They have an extensive list of seafood dishes, including fish tacos and a seven seafood soup. For a cheap meal, ask for the Mexican tacos - just chicken or beef, cilantro, a dusting of Mexican cheese and some chopped onions, all in a soft, homemade tortilla.
El Triunfo -- Salvadoran
7842 North Point Blvd., Winston-Salem (North Point)
336-896-8600
We mention El Triunfo not because it's great but because it's different. It may be the only El Salvadoran restaurant in town. You'll find a menu with excellent pupusas and plantains on the side.
Taqueria Guadalajara
980 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-724-9299
Guadalajara's dining room appears to have two well-divided sides - one for the Americanos and families, and the other for groups looking for a good time. On the family side, you can expect the waitresses to kiss any baby in the room and make sure your every need is met. Try the tortas (sandwiches), which are piled high, as well as the pozole. Also, you'll receive several different kinds of salsas as well as pico de gallo, all spicier than the next.
More Winston-Salem Mexican Restaurants
El Dorado
4922 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem (Country Club)
336-760-3936
El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant
5079 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-767-3333
El Torero Mexicano
5900 University Parkway, Winston-Salem (North University Parkway)
336-377-3339
La Carreta
725 Coliseum Drive, Winston-Salem (Coliseum area)
336-722-3709
137 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-774-3010
1989 Peace Haven Road, Winston-Salem (Peace Haven)
336-768-7881
La Perlita Tacos Y Restaurante
1001 Waughtown St., Winston-Salem (Waughtown, UNCSA)
336-788-6888
Mi Pueblo
2095 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Wake Forest University area)
336-722-5772
644 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-765-5174
Monterrey Mexican Restaurant
3028 Healy Drive, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-765-2933
1227 Silas Creek Parkways (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-773-0300
Pancho Villa's
799 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford)
336-768-6886
Señor Bravo
241 S. Marshall St., Winston-Salem (Brookstown/Old Salem)
336-725-1888
Taco Riendo
613 E Sprague St., Winston-Salem (Waughtown)
336-785-9112
Tequila Mexican Restaurant
2802 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem (Wake Forest University area)
336-727-9547
Pizza Restaurants in Winston-Salem
One benefit of having more Northern transplants in the area is that the quality of pizza available in Winston-Salem has greatly improved in recent years. You can find traditional New York style pizza, gourmet pies with fancy toppings, and a range of options when it comes to crusts. We've included three small North Carolina or regional chains on this list: Brixx, Mario's and The Loop.
Here are some recommendations worth trying:
Burke Street Pizza
1140 Burke St. N.W., Winston-Salem (West End)
336-721-0011
Big, New York-style slices. Order them individually or by the pie. The funky location on Burke Street is a great place to people watch in the afternoons or evenings, and a popular spot with the late-night crowd. Burke Street is planning to open a second location in the Robinhood Road area with a larger dining area.
Mario's Pizza
1066 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-0057
2205 Cloverdale Ave., Winston-Salem (Ardmore/Miller Street)
336-602-1410
Mario's Pizza leads to cravings that nothing but Mario's can satisfy. The cheese is generous and the crust is thin and chewy. To eat a slice neatly, you must fold it in half and be prepared for the possibility that a little grease and sauce might end up in your lap. You can buy a whole pizza or just a slice, and the salads with the house dressing are tasty too.
The Loop Pizza Grill
320 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Thruway)
336-703-9882
A small or "indy" pizza from The Loop is enough for lunch and a little more. The Loop makes the recommendations list for its thin, almost cracker-like crust and the freshness of the tomato and basil on its margarita pizza
More Winston-Salem Pizzerias
Brixx Wood Fired Pizza
1295 Creekshire Way, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-837-0667
Coppola's Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant
3512 Yadkinville Road, Winton-Salem (Reynolda Road)
336-922-1190
Elizabeth's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
3278 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336-768-0605
Francesco's Pizza & Italian Restaurant
336 Summit Square Blvd., Winston-Salem (University Parkway)
336-377-3332
420-M Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem (Jonestown)
336-774-8758
Upper Crust Pizza Parlor
1816 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek)
336-748-0200
Seafood Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Maybe Winston-Salem's inland location explains the city's lack of seafood restaurants. There's not much on this list, especially when you eliminate chains such as Red Lobster and Bonefish Grill. But here are two recommendations:
Forsyth Seafood Market and Cafe
108 Martin Luther King Drive, Winston-Salem (MLK Drive area)
336-746-0793
The seafood is really fresh and the prices are reasonable. Plus it's one of the few places in town with a shrimp burger, as well as an oyster burger and a soft-shell crab burger, on its menu. Those are reasons enough to give it a try.
Mayflower Seafood Restaurant
850 Peters Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem (Silas Creek/Peters Creek area)
336.725-3261
Mayflower is a North Carolina-based chain of restaurants. We mention it here because when the restaurant on Peters Creek Parkway burned down a few years ago, more than a few loyal customers went into deep mourning. A rebuilt restaurant opened in 2009 in the same location. Most of the fish dishes on the menu are fried - expect to wait 20 minutes for a broiled order (according to the menu).
Jimmy's Seafood & Oyster Bar
3440 Frontis St., Winston-Salem (Hanes Mall area)
336.659.1490
Yacht House Restaurant
4881 Country Club Road (Jonestown area)
336-768-3370
Soul Food Restaurants in Winston-Salem
This list is a short one, unfortunately. It seems like soul food restaurants struggle to make it in this town and that's a true shame. Here are a few recommendations:
Dr. J's House of Soul Food
1527 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Winston-Salem (MLK area )
336-771-7663
This place is worth finding, with a reputation for delicious food, like fried fish, country steak, cabbage and macaroni and cheese. However, don't get your heart set on one thing; the menu does vary daily. The staff is friendly and the prices are very reasonable.
Sweet Potatoes
529 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-727-4844
It seems almost wrong to put Sweet Potatoes on this list because the restaurant describes itself as serving Southern food, and the atmosphere is more fine dining than funky. But the menu includes dishes with ingredients such as collard greens, fried okra and dirty rice, so maybe it qualifies.
More Winston-Salem Soul Food Restaurants
Meta's Restaurant
102 W. Third St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-750-0811
Southern Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Southern restaurants have found their footing in recent years as people search out the tastes and memories of the meals their mamas and grandmas used to make. Or maybe Southern food has become trendy. Whatever the case, these three recommendations all offer a good meal at a similar price. Why not try them all?
Milner's American Southern
630 S. Stratford Road, Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-768-2221
Milner's offers some great tasting Southern food but brings it upscale in presentation and taste, playing down the salt and playing up the freshness. There are so many good choices to try, including the frogmore stew, buttermilk fried chicken with collard greens, and tomato and summer squash cobbler. The chef really knows the menu and is quick to substitute for food allergies or other special concerns.
Mozelle's
878 W. Fourth St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-703-5400
You can dine outside at Mozelle's, and the staff thoughtfully places light blankets on the chairs on chilly nights so patrons can cover up if needed. Inside the restaurant, space is tight with a view of the open kitchen. For appetizers, try the fried pickles with honey mustard or the southern spring rolls; for dinner, consider a tomato pie or the gourmet meatloaf.
Sweet Potatoes
529 N. Trade St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-727-4844
Sweet Potatoes may have the most buzz of any restaurant that has opened in the arts district. With its focus on upscale southern foods, it's a comfortable place for lunch as well as a fine dining establishment at dinner time.
Steakhouse Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Far from the grasslands of Texas, Winston-Salem is heavy on the national chains, with words like Texas, cattle and outback in their names. If you know the chains, you know that some are better than others, and a few allow you to throw peanut shells on the floor. But if you want to find a Winston-Salem take on a steakhouse, here are a few recommendations:
Putter's Patio & Grill
3005 Bonhurst Drive, Winston-Salem (Wake Forest University area)
336-724-9990
Putter's is a place where you can feel comfortable in flip flops and an untucked shirt. The atmosphere is more sports bar than fine dining, but word has it they prepare a great steak at an extremely reasonable price. It's a popular spot with Wake Forest students, fans and alumni.
Ryan's Steaks, Chops & Seafood
719 Coliseum Drive, Winston-Salem (Coliseum)
336-724-6132
Ryan's is an old-school choice, from the décor to the menu. That said, the food is consistently good, the portions are plentiful and the service is typically friendly. The dining room windows look out on a wooded landscape.
More Winston-Salem Steakhouses
Noble's Grille
380 Knollwood St., Winston-Salem (Stratford area)
336-777-8477
Twin City Chop House
115 S. Main St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-748-8600
WS Prime
425 N. Cherry St., Winston-Salem (Downtown)
336-722-5232
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Post a CommentMary's of Course Too
My vote would have to go to the delicious breakfast burritos at Mary's of Course Too. There's nothing better than enjoying a hot egg burrito with Sriracha sauce for dinner, or for a post party munchie at 2am!
I'd also like to commend you guys on putting this extensive list of Winston-Salem restaurants together 
Any chance you could link each restaurant to a dedicated page that includes details, the ability for us to rate food, and maybe a link to Google maps so I can pull restaurant locations up quickly on my iPhone?
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