The Best Restaurants in Winston-Salem, NC: A Culinary Tour
Winston-Salem, a city known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, offers an array of dining experiences that cater to various tastes. Here, we explore five of the top restaurants that have made a mark in this North Carolinian city, each offering unique flavors and atmospheres.
1. Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar
Located in a historic 1920s home on the city’s Millionaire’s Row, Spring House offers an elevated New American dining experience with a seasonal menu. The restaurant is renowned for its three-course tasting menu, showcasing the chef’s featured dishes. The Charred Filet Mignon with Crispy Fried Oysters is a particular favorite, and the Library Bar’s artisan cocktails add to the restaurant’s charm (Lost In The Carolinas).
- Pros: Historic setting, seasonal menu, artisan cocktails.
- Cons: Higher price point, menu may not cater to all preferences.
2. The Katharine Brasserie & Bar
The Katharine, set in the historic former RJ Reynolds Building, is a tribute to the city’s history. It offers French-inspired Southern cuisine in an art-deco setting. The menu includes elegant dishes like Moules Marinieres and Canard a l’Orange, perfect for a sophisticated dining experience. This place is ideal for a relaxed meal or a formal dinner with its multi-course servings (Oak and Rowan, Southern Trippers).
- Pros: Unique blend of Southern and French cuisine, elegant setting.
- Cons: Limited menu variety, higher price.
3. The Old Fourth Street Filling Station
This restaurant captures the essence of Winston-Salem’s historic West End with its stunning outdoor patio and cozy fireplace. It serves elevated American dishes and is particularly known for its Sunday brunch. Signature dishes include Eggplant Ratatouille Pasta and Southwestern Flank Steak, alongside a comprehensive wine list (Oak and Rowan).
- Pros: Beautiful outdoor seating, diverse American menu.
- Cons: Can get crowded, especially during brunch hours.
4. Quanto Basto
A family-run establishment, Quanto Basto is a go-to for Italian cuisine lovers. The restaurant’s motto, ‘gather, taste, enjoy,’ is reflected in its home-made pasta and fire-roasted porchetta. The parmesan, pork belly, and crab dip, followed by sausage and clam pasta, are must-tries, not to mention their traditional olive oil cake for dessert (Southern Trippers).
- Pros: Authentic Italian cuisine, family-run warmth.
- Cons: Limited opening hours, might require reservations.
5. River Birch Lodge
Nestled in a tranquil, nature-inspired setting, River Birch Lodge offers a relaxing dining atmosphere with its warmly lit interior and stone fireplace. The menu features New American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its North Carolina seafood variety and hearty meat and pasta dishes (Oak and Rowan).
- Pros: Serene atmosphere, focus on local and fresh ingredients.
- Cons: Location may be out of the way for some visitors.
Winston-Salem’s culinary scene is a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a range of dining experiences that promise to satisfy the palate of every food enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for a taste of local Southern fare, an elegant French dinner, or a cozy Italian meal, this city has a restaurant that caters to every culinary desire.
