Top 10 Places to Dine in Winston-Salem in 2027

1. The Katharine Brasserie & Bar

The Katharine Brasserie & Bar ranks first for its unmatched combination of polished French-American cuisine, refined service, and the most handsome dining room in Winston-Salem. Located inside the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, it serves steak frites, roasted chicken, and fresh oysters with a top-tier cocktail and wine program. A dinner here runs approximately $45–$80 per person, reflecting the city's highest level of culinary execution. Its consistency and atmosphere make it the definitive special-occasion destination.

This restaurant is for celebratory dinners, business entertaining, and date nights where the setting matters as much as the food. It trades away casual affordability, with prices roughly double those at nearby Sweet Potatoes. Compared to the more rustic Spring House, The Katharine offers a sleeker, more contemporary brasserie energy. Reservations are essential, especially on weekends and during festival dates.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes earns the number two spot as the best value on the list, delivering elevated Southern soul food at $20–$35 per person. A downtown Arts District institution since 2003, it serves fried chicken, shrimp and grits, salmon cakes, and its namesake sweet potatoes prepared multiple ways. The warm, lively room and generous portions make it a consistent crowd-pleaser. It offers the highest quality-to-price ratio in the city.

This restaurant is for anyone craving hearty Southern comfort food, from casual lunches to group dinners. It trades away the refined elegance and wine program of The Katharine for a more boisterous, family-friendly atmosphere. While The Katharine excels in fine dining polish, Sweet Potatoes wins on soulful cooking and everyday accessibility. Walk-ins are common, but arriving before 5:15 PM on weekends avoids the wait.

3. Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar

Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar ranks third for its exceptional farm-to-table Southern cooking in a restored 1920s West End mansion. The menu emphasizes local sourcing with seasonal mains priced at $28–$45, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience. Multiple intimate dining rooms provide a quiet, romantic setting ideal for anniversaries and celebrations. Its commitment to regional ingredients sets it apart from more conventional downtown options.

This restaurant is for diners seeking a tranquil, historic ambiance with a focus on seasonal produce and local meats. It trades away the central downtown location of The Katharine for a more residential, secluded charm. Compared to Sweet Potatoes, Spring House offers a more sophisticated menu but at a higher price point. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend evenings.

4. Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro

Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro ranks fourth for its cozy, scratch-made Southern plates in a converted West End bungalow. Known for fried green tomatoes, low-country shrimp and grits, and a standout weekend brunch, it delivers consistent quality at $20–$38 per person. The intimate, homey atmosphere creates a relaxed dining experience that feels both personal and polished. It is a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner.

This restaurant is for brunch lovers and those seeking relaxed Southern fare in a charming, neighborhood setting. It trades away the grand scale of Spring House for a smaller, more casual bistro vibe. While Spring House offers a more formal farm-to-table experience, Mozelle's provides similar scratch cooking with a lighter touch. Its popularity means weekend brunch waits can be long, so early arrival is advised.

5. Mission Pizza Napoletana

Mission Pizza Napoletana ranks fifth for its nationally recognized Neapolitan pizzas, blistered in a 900-degree wood-fired oven. The menu includes excellent antipasti and a thoughtful natural-wine list, with pies priced at $16–$24. It has earned press acclaim for producing some of the best pizza in the Southeast, a testament to its technical skill and quality ingredients. The casual, focused setting puts the food front and center.

This restaurant is for pizza purists and wine enthusiasts who appreciate a minimalist, ingredient-driven approach. It trades away the full-service dining experience of Mozelle's for a more streamlined, pizzeria-style format. Compared to Cugino Forno, Mission Pizza offers a more refined and nationally celebrated product. It is strictly first-come, first-served, with peak dinner waits of 20–45 minutes.

6. Quanto Basta Italian Eatery

Quanto Basta Italian Eatery ranks sixth for its handmade pasta and Italian classics paired with one of the city's best craft-cocktail bars. Located in the downtown Arts District, it offers a lively, date-friendly atmosphere with mains and cocktails in the $25–$45 per person range. The combination of fresh pasta and inventive drinks makes it a standout for a fun night out. Its central location adds to its appeal for pre- or post-event dining.

This restaurant is for couples and groups seeking a vibrant Italian meal with a strong cocktail program. It trades away the quiet intimacy of Spring House for a more energetic, social setting. While Mission Pizza excels at a single dish, Quanto Basta offers a broader Italian menu with greater variety. Reservations are recommended for weekend evenings to avoid the bustling crowd.

7. Little Richard's BBQ

Little Richard's BBQ ranks seventh for its authentic Lexington-style pork barbecue, chopped and hickory-smoked to perfection. Served with red slaw and hush puppies, this no-frills staple offers classic North Carolina flavor at an affordable $12–$22 per person. It is a local institution for those seeking traditional, unpretentious barbecue. The focus on smoked meat done right earns it a solid place on this list.

This restaurant is for barbecue traditionalists and families looking for a casual, affordable meal. It trades away the culinary sophistication of Quanto Basta for a straightforward, rustic experience. Compared to the higher-end options, Little Richard's delivers on pure, smoky flavor without any fuss. It is strictly first-come, first-served, with lunchtime waits common between 12:30 and 1:30 PM.

8. Camino Bakery

Camino Bakery ranks eighth for its excellent coffee, fresh breads, pastries, and breakfast plates at a budget-friendly $8–$16 per person. A downtown coffeehouse and bakery, it is beloved for its casual breakfast and lunch service, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite. The quality of its baked goods and coffee rivals that of full-service restaurants. It provides a reliable, high-quality option for daytime dining.

This restaurant is for coffee lovers, remote workers, and anyone seeking a light breakfast or lunch in a relaxed setting. It trades away the full dinner service of Little Richard's for a daytime-focused menu. While Little Richard's offers hearty barbecue, Camino Bakery excels at pastries and lighter fare. Its gluten-free options and trained staff make it a safe choice for those with allergies.

9. Willow's Bistro

Willow's Bistro ranks ninth for its approachable seasonal menu of small plates and entrees, paired with a strong wine and craft-beer list. Tucked just south of downtown, it offers a relaxed neighborhood setting with prices ranging from $22–$40 per person. The emphasis on shareable dishes and beverage pairings makes it a versatile choice for a casual dinner. Its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere keep it a local favorite.

This restaurant is for diners who enjoy small plates and exploring wine or beer pairings in a laid-back environment. It trades away the bakery-focused daytime appeal of Camino Bakery for a full evening dining experience. Compared to Quanto Basta, Willow's offers a more eclectic, seasonal menu rather than a single-cuisine focus. It is a solid mid-range option for neighborhood dinners.

10. Cugino Forno Pizzeria

Cugino Forno Pizzeria ranks tenth for its authentic, family-run Neapolitan pizzas in the Wake Forest Innovation Quarter. Served in a fun, communal-table setting, the wood-fired pies are affordable and consistent at $14–$22 per person. It provides a casual, welcoming environment that is ideal for families and quick dinners. The focus on traditional technique and simple ingredients makes it a reliable choice.

This restaurant is for families and those seeking a casual, no-fuss pizza dinner in a lively communal space. It trades away the curated wine list and national acclaim of Mission Pizza for a more approachable, neighborhood feel. While Mission Pizza offers a more refined product, Cugino Forno excels at accessibility and value. It is a great option for a spontaneous, affordable meal.

How we ranked these

We ranked restaurants by weighting food quality and execution at 30%, consistency and service at 20%, value for price at 20%, atmosphere at 15%, and menu range and dietary options at 15%. Scores were cross-referenced against Tripadvisor, Yelp, OpenTable, and local press from the Winston-Salem Journal and Visit Winston-Salem. We prioritized currently operating venues across price points to serve casual lunches, family dinners, and special occasions.

We deliberately ignored brand fame and historical reputation unless backed by recent performance. A famous name that slipped on consistency was dropped, while smaller spots with great cooking and fair prices climbed. We also excluded any restaurant that failed to meet basic hygiene standards or had unresolved health code violations, regardless of popularity. Subjective factors like personal taste in cuisine style were not considered.

Related questions

What is the best restaurant in Winston-Salem for a special occasion?

The Katharine Brasserie & Bar is the top choice for special occasions, offering an elegant French-American menu, polished service, and a handsome dining room inside the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel. Dinner costs $45–$80 per person, and reservations are recommended one to two weeks in advance, especially during college events or the RiverRun Film Festival.

Where can I get the best value meal in Winston-Salem?

Sweet Potatoes offers the best value, serving elevated Southern soul food like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and salmon cakes for about $20–$35 per person. The portions are generous, and the lively Arts District location makes it a favorite for casual lunches and group dinners. Arrive by 5:15 PM on weekends to avoid waits.

Are there good farm-to-table restaurants in Winston-Salem?

Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar is a standout farm-to-table option, set in a restored 1920s mansion in the West End. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced Southern cooking, with mains ranging from $28 to $45. Its intimate dining rooms are ideal for anniversaries and quieter celebrations.

What are the best pizza places in Winston-Salem?

Mission Pizza Napoletana is nationally recognized for blistered, wood-fired Neapolitan pies from a 900-degree oven, with a thoughtful natural-wine list. Cugino Forno Pizzeria offers authentic, family-run Neapolitan pizza in a communal setting. Both are affordable, with pies ranging from $14 to $24, and are first-come, first-served.

Where can I find authentic North Carolina barbecue in Winston-Salem?

Little Richard's BBQ serves classic Lexington-style pork barbecue, chopped and hickory-smoked, with red slaw and hush puppies. It's a no-frills, family-friendly spot with meals costing $12–$22 per person. Expect waits of 20–45 minutes during peak lunch and dinner hours, as it's strictly first-come, first-served.

Which Winston-Salem restaurants are best for brunch?

Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro is a top brunch pick, known for scratch-made Southern plates like fried green tomatoes and low-country shrimp and grits, with prices from $20 to $38. Camino Bakery also offers excellent breakfast plates, pastries, and coffee for a casual, affordable start to the day.

Are there good Italian restaurants in downtown Winston-Salem?

Quanto Basta Italian Eatery, in the Arts District, pairs handmade pasta and Italian classics with one of the city's best craft-cocktail bars. It's lively and date-friendly, with meals costing $25–$45 per person. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid waits.

What are some emerging dining neighborhoods in Winston-Salem?

Beyond downtown and the West End, Peters Creek Parkway is a hub for international cuisine, with family-run Vietnamese, Indian, and Mexican spots. Reynolda Village offers refined, garden-adjacent dining, while Waughtown Street features authentic taquerias and Latin bakeries with tacos for $3–$5 and pan dulce under $2.

FAQ

Is The Katharine Brasserie & Bar really the best restaurant in Winston-Salem?

It consistently earns top marks for its refined French-American menu and polished service, making it a strong candidate for best overall. However, “best” is subjective—diners seeking a more casual or affordable experience may prefer other spots on this list.

How much should I expect to spend at a top Winston-Salem restaurant?

Prices vary widely, from around $20–$35 per person at Southern comfort spots like Sweet Potatoes to $45–$80 per person at fine-dining venues like The Katharine. Most mid-range options fall between $25 and $50 per person.

Are these restaurants suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?

Many of the top picks offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, though menus change seasonally. It’s best to check the restaurant’s current menu or call ahead to confirm specific dietary needs.

Do I need a reservation for these popular dining spots?

Reservations are strongly recommended for fine-dining and high-demand restaurants, especially on weekends. Casual spots may accept walk-ins, but wait times can vary.

Which area of Winston-Salem has the best concentration of top restaurants?

The downtown Arts District and West End neighborhoods have the highest density of highly rated dining options. Old Salem also offers a few historic, well-regarded spots.

How often is this list updated?

This list reflects the dining scene as of 2027, based on current reviews and local feedback. We aim to revisit and refresh the rankings annually to account for new openings and changes in quality.

What are the best restaurants for gluten-free dining in Winston-Salem?

The Katharine Brasserie & Bar leads with a dedicated gluten-free menu, while Mission Pizza offers a gluten-free crust for an extra $3. Sweet Potatoes can accommodate gluten-free diners with advance notice, though cross-contamination is possible. Camino Bakery has a rotating selection of gluten-free pastries and sandwiches.

Are there halal or kosher dining options in Winston-Salem?

Zaytoon Mediterranean Grill on Peters Creek Parkway is fully halal, with platters in the $12–$18 range. Kosher diners will need to call ahead; Spring House has accommodated kosher-style requests with 48-hour notice. Most other restaurants have limited kosher options.

What is the best time to visit top Winston-Salem restaurants to avoid crowds?

For walk-in-friendly spots like Sweet Potatoes and Mozelle's, arrive by 5:15 PM on weekends. For first-come, first-served places like Little Richard's and Mission Pizza, avoid 12:30–1:30 PM and 6:30–8:00 PM. Weekday lunches, Tuesday through Thursday, often have same-day availability.

Can I get the full menu at the bar in Winston-Salem restaurants?

Many downtown restaurants offer bar seating that opens up earlier than main dining tables, and bartenders often serve the full menu. This is a pro tip for getting a seat without a reservation, especially at popular spots like The Katharine and Quanto Basta.

Sources

• https://www.visitwinstonsalem.com/restaurants/
• https://www.thekatharine.com/
• https://www.sweetpotatoes.ws/
• https://www.missionpizzanc.com/
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g49495-Winston_Salem_North_Carolina.html
• https://www.journalnow.com/

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