Winston-Salem Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Winston-Salem. Your complete guide to dining in Winston-Salem.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Winston-Salem! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Winston-Salem has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Winston-Salem's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Winston-Salem like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Winston-Salem offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Winston-Salem.

Twisted Pine

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 478 reviews.

📍 527 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Mozelle's

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 1377 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

📍 878 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Sage & Salt

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 390 reviews.

📍 300 S Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Old Fourth Street Filling Station

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 1882 reviews.

📍 871 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Village Tavern

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 5124 reviews.

📍 2000 Griffith Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.3 stars from 2559 reviews.

📍 1215 Creekshire Way, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

River Birch Lodge

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 2185 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 3324 Robinhood Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

The Downtown Grille

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.7 stars from 135 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

📍 500 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Rooster's Wood-fired Kitchen Winston Salem

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 799 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 380 Knollwood St, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Betty on Burke

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 91 reviews.

📍 1016 Burke St Ste D, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Tuscani By Sage & Salt

Highly rated Restaurant in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 98 reviews.

📍 450 N Patterson Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Porch | Kitchen & Cantina

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 1882 reviews.

📍 840 Mill Works St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Winston-Salem.

The Fresh Market

Highly rated Bakery in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 674 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

📍 3285 Robinhood Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Whole Foods Market

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 1649 reviews.

📍 41 Miller St, Winston-Salem, NC 27104, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Compare Foods at Winston Salem NC

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4 stars from 1645 reviews.

📍 951 Silas Creek Pkwy, Winston-Salem, NC 27127, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Buie’s Market

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 132 reviews.

📍 749 Avalon Rd N, Winston-Salem, NC 27104, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Publix Super Market at Miller Street

Highly rated Bakery in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 2819 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

📍 34 Miller St, Winston-Salem, NC 27104, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Trader Joe's

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.7 stars from 2456 reviews.

📍 252 S Stratford Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Compare Foods of Winston-Salem

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4 stars from 230 reviews.

📍 550 N Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Sea Products Seafood Market

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 151 reviews.

📍 463 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Winston-Salem.

Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 5 stars from 23 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Salem Food Tours

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 5 stars from 108 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Carolina's Vineyards & Hops

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 70 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Lesser-Known Beer Company

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.9 stars from 155 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Visit Winston-Salem

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 44 reviews.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Fiddlin' Fish Brewing Company

Highly rated Bar in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 408 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

  • •Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • •Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Winston-Salem.

Midtown Cafe and Dessertery

Highly rated American in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 3163 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 151 S Stratford Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Lot 63: Bakery, Coffeehouse, Pub, Wine Bar

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 212 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 614 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Krankies

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.4 stars from 2074 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 211 3rd St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Louie and Honey's Kitchen

Highly rated Bakery in Winston Salem with 4.7 stars from 593 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

📍 401 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

The Remedy Cafe and Bar

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 220 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 492 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Camino Bakery

Highly rated Bakery in Winston Salem with 4.5 stars from 1223 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 310 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Ardmore Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 604 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 1316 S Hawthorne Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

BYGood Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 359 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 301 Brookstown Ave Ste 300, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Winston-Salem.

Signature Dish

A must-try Winston-Salem specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Winston-Salem dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Winston-Salem with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Winston-Salem specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Winston-Salem creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Winston-Salem classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Winston-Salem specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Winston-Salem dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Winston-Salem with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Winston-Salem specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • •Try it at multiple places to compare
  • •Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Winston-Salem.

Euphoria

Highly rated Bar in Winston Salem with 4.7 stars from 135 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 701 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Second & Green Tavern

Highly rated Bar in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 511 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 207 N Green St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

easytalk

Highly rated Cafe in Winston Salem with 4.8 stars from 68 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 905 S Broad St #105, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Quiet Pint Tavern

Highly rated Bar in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 1691 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 1420 W 1st St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Dive Bar Winston-Salem

Highly rated International in Winston Salem with 4.9 stars from 562 reviews.

📍 1131 Burke St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Thirsty Pallet

Highly rated Bar in Winston Salem with 4.6 stars from 123 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 249 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Winston-Salem's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Winston-Salem vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Winston-Salem offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Winston-Salem specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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