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These four Winston-Salem restaurants have won Wine Spectator Awards

Exploring Winston-Salem's Vibrant Food and Drink Scene: A Culinary Journey Through Local Favorites

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has long been known for its rich history in tobacco and textiles, but in recent years, it has emerged as a burgeoning hub for food and drink enthusiasts. The city's culinary landscape is a delightful blend of Southern traditions, innovative fusion cuisines, and a thriving craft beverage scene that caters to both locals and visitors alike. From cozy farm-to-table eateries to bustling breweries and distilleries, Winston-Salem offers a diverse array of options that reflect its evolving identity as a foodie destination. This exploration delves into some of the standout establishments, highlighting their unique offerings, atmospheres, and the stories behind them, showcasing why this Piedmont city is worth a spot on any gastronomic itinerary.

At the heart of Winston-Salem's food scene is its commitment to local sourcing and seasonal ingredients, a philosophy embodied by restaurants like Mozelle's Fresh Southern Bistro. Nestled in the historic West End neighborhood, Mozelle's has become a staple for those seeking elevated comfort food with a Southern twist. The menu features dishes like shrimp and grits, where plump Gulf shrimp are paired with creamy stone-ground grits from nearby mills, topped with a smoky tasso ham gravy that adds depth and a nod to Creole influences. The restaurant's owner, Chef Jeff Mozelle, emphasizes the importance of supporting local farmers, often incorporating produce from the Cobblestone Farmers Market into specials such as heirloom tomato salads or braised short ribs with root vegetables. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and soft lighting that make it ideal for date nights or family gatherings. Patrons rave about the weekend brunch, where buttermilk biscuits with house-made jams steal the show, accompanied by mimosas crafted from fresh-squeezed juices.

Venturing into the realm of international flavors, Winston-Salem boasts a growing number of eateries that bring global cuisines to the forefront. Take, for instance, HakkaChow, an Asian fusion spot that has gained a loyal following for its creative takes on Chinese, Thai, and Indian dishes. Located in the bustling Thruway Shopping Center, HakkaChow's menu is a testament to bold flavors and innovative presentations. Signature items include the Hakka noodles, stir-fried with a medley of vegetables, proteins, and a house blend of spices that deliver a perfect balance of heat and umami. The restaurant also offers dim sum-style small plates, such as steamed pork buns and vegetable spring rolls, which pair wonderfully with their selection of craft cocktails infused with Asian-inspired elements like lemongrass and ginger. What sets HakkaChow apart is its commitment to authenticity while adapting to local tastes—many ingredients are sourced from regional suppliers, ensuring freshness. Diners appreciate the vibrant, modern decor with lantern accents and an open kitchen that allows a glimpse into the culinary action.

No discussion of Winston-Salem's food and drink would be complete without highlighting its craft beer renaissance. The city is home to several breweries that have put it on the map for beer aficionados. Foothills Brewing, one of the pioneers, operates out of a spacious facility in the downtown area, where they produce a wide range of ales and lagers. Their flagship Jade IPA, with its citrusy hops and balanced bitterness, has won numerous awards and is a go-to for hop lovers. The brewery's taproom is a lively spot, often hosting live music events and food truck pop-ups that complement the brews. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process, from malting to fermentation, and sample seasonal releases like the pumpkin ale in fall or a refreshing sour during summer months. Foothills also collaborates with local chefs for beer dinners, pairing flights with multi-course meals that showcase how beer can elevate flavors in unexpected ways.

Adjacent to the beer scene is the rise of distilleries, adding another layer to Winston-Salem's beverage offerings. Sutler's Spirit Co., inspired by the city's Moravian heritage, crafts small-batch gins and vodkas using botanicals foraged from the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Their signature gin, infused with juniper, coriander, and local wildflowers, offers a floral profile that's perfect for classic cocktails like the gin and tonic or more inventive mixes such as a lavender-infused martini. The distillery's tasting room provides an educational experience, with experts explaining the distillation process and the importance of sustainable practices. It's not uncommon to find Sutler's spirits featured in local bars, where mixologists create signature drinks that highlight the nuanced flavors.

For those with a sweet tooth, Winston-Salem's dessert and bakery scene is equally impressive. Black Mountain Chocolate, a bean-to-bar operation, sources cacao from ethical suppliers worldwide and transforms it into artisanal bars and confections. Their downtown factory and cafe allow visitors to watch the chocolate-making process through glass windows, from roasting beans to tempering. Popular items include dark chocolate bars with sea salt and almonds, or truffles filled with local honey and pecans. The cafe serves hot chocolate made from scratch, paired with pastries from nearby bakers, making it a cozy spot for afternoon indulgences.

The city's food truck culture adds a dynamic, mobile element to the scene. Trucks like Taqueria El Azteca roam various locations, serving authentic Mexican street food such as carne asada tacos loaded with cilantro, onions, and fresh lime. These mobile eateries often gather at events like the Downtown Winston-Salem Food Truck Festival, where dozens of vendors offer everything from barbecue to vegan bowls, creating a communal atmosphere that's perfect for sampling multiple cuisines in one go.

Winston-Salem's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its growing number of vegetarian and vegan options. Places like The Porch Kitchen & Cantina focus on plant-based Tex-Mex, with dishes like jackfruit carnitas that mimic the texture and flavor of pulled pork, served in warm tortillas with house-made salsas. This reflects a broader trend toward healthier, sustainable eating, with many restaurants offering gluten-free and allergy-friendly menus.

Seasonal events further enhance the food and drink experience. The annual Carolina Classic Fair brings fairground favorites like funnel cakes and corn dogs, while the Cobblestone Farmers Market runs year-round, providing fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods directly from producers. Wine lovers aren't left out, with nearby Yadkin Valley wineries offering tastings and tours, often featuring varietals like Viognier and Cabernet Franc that thrive in the region's climate.

What ties all these elements together is the sense of community. Many establishments participate in initiatives like farm shares or charity events, fostering connections between chefs, farmers, and diners. For example, restaurants often collaborate on pop-up dinners, blending cuisines in creative ways, such as a Southern-Asian fusion night where fried chicken meets kimchi slaw.

In terms of ambiance, Winston-Salem's venues range from upscale dining rooms to casual patios. Downtown spots like The Katharine Brasserie & Bar, housed in a historic hotel, offer French-inspired fare in an elegant setting, with dishes like coq au vin and escargot that transport diners to Paris. Meanwhile, casual joints like Small Batch Beer Co. provide a laid-back vibe with picnic tables and outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying a pint with friends.

The economic impact of this scene is notable, as it draws tourists and supports local jobs. Establishments like these contribute to the city's revitalization, turning once-vacant warehouses into vibrant social hubs. For newcomers, apps and guides like the Visit Winston-Salem website help navigate the options, often including maps and reviews.

Looking ahead, Winston-Salem's food and drink landscape continues to evolve. New openings, such as innovative coffee roasters experimenting with single-origin beans or distilleries exploring non-alcoholic spirits, promise to keep things fresh. Chefs are increasingly incorporating global trends, like fermentation and zero-waste cooking, while staying true to Southern roots.

In essence, Winston-Salem's culinary offerings are a microcosm of the city's spirit—hospitable, innovative, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you're savoring a craft cocktail at a distillery, digging into farm-fresh plates at a bistro, or exploring the bustling markets, the experiences here are as diverse as they are delicious. It's a place where every meal tells a story, inviting all to partake in its flavorful narrative. (Word count: 1,128)

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