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Winston-Salem and the surrounding towns have a handful of sophisticated establishments that are perfect for a fancy dinner. The following restaurants stand out as go-to spots for a nice dinner out.
Updated November 2025
Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sun, 3-9 PM
Enjoy a nice evening inside Mozelle’s cozy indoor seating area or outdoor patio. In the winter, you will find outdoor heaters and blankets on each seat on the patio. The cuisine is Southern-inspired with classic dishes like fried chicken, meatloaf, and shrimp & grits – one of the most popular items is the Tomato Pie!
Jeffrey Adams
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Thurs, 4-9 PM; Fri-Sat, 4-10 PM; and Sun, 4-9 PM
You can expect quality food and friendly service at Jeffrey Adams. Located downtown, Jeffrey Adams has a bar area, two floors of indoor seating, and outdoor seating in the warmer months. People rave about the steaks and scallops!
Rooster’s
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Mon-Thurs, 5-10 PM; Fri-Sat, 5-11 PM; and Sun, 5-9 PM
Rooster’s is a long-standing tradition in Winston-Salem, offering the finest Southern cuisine with unmatched service. Diners can expect locally sourced food, indoor and outdoor seating, and an open kitchen featuring top-notch culinary action.
Ryan’s Restaurant
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Mon-Thurs, 5-9 PM; Fri, 5-9:30 PM; and Sat, 4:30-9:30 PM
Ryan’s offers unique panoramic views of large oaks and a rolling stream from the many window-side tables or the large deck. From the crackling fire to white tablecloths, this is the ideal “fancy night out.” The menu includes steak, seafood, bread service, and an extensive wine list.
Fratellis Italian Steakhouse
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sat 4-10 PM and Sun 4-9 PM
Expect nothing less than perfectly cooked American steak & seafood and classic Italian dishes at Fratellis. With a large fireplace, great wine and beer lists, and delicious entrees, Fratellis is a 10/10 option for a nice evening out.
Three Bulls American Steakhouse
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sat, 4-10 PM and Sun, 4-9 PM
Three Bulls is a great spot for date nights, anniversaries, and graduation parties. With a menu featuring popular items from Fratellis Italian Steakhouse (owned by the same people), it’s a must-visit spot for delicious dining experiences.
Village Tavern (Reynolda Village)
$$
DINNER HOURS | Mon-Thurs, 4-9 PM; Fri-Sat, 4-10 PM; and Sunday, 4-9 PM
For a romantic evening, enjoy dining at Village Tavern in Reynolda Village. Popular dishes include nachos, shrimp & grits, and pizzas. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads and has weekly drink specials. Be sure to walk around Reynolda Village before or after to complete the experience.
Diamondback Grill
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sat, 5-9:30 PM and Sun, 5-9 PM
Nestled in Buena Vista, Diamondback Grill has indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy atmosphere and stellar service. The extensive menu ranges from steak and seafood to homey Southern classics, with plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions.
1703 Restaurant & Catering
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sun, 5:30-9 PM
Located in Buena Vista, 1703’s menu varies from day to day based on availability and Chef Curtis Hackaday’s creative ideas. Try a glass of wine from their award-winning wine list and enjoy the interior’s intimate atmosphere or the gorgeous outdoor patio.
The Downtown Grille
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Thurs, 4:30-9 PM and Fri-Sat, 4:30-10 PM
The Downtown Grille offers a sophisticated dining experience on the ground floor of the 500 West Fifth building in downtown Winston-Salem. Featuring a straightforward menu with regionally sourced ingredients, the restaurant embraces classic favorites like steak, pork, chicken, seafood, and burgers.
Bernardin’s Restaurant
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Mon-Sat, 5-8:30 PM
Bernardin’s is a charming restaurant operating out of a restored house in West End. Alongside traditional entrees like ribeye and salmon, Bernardin’s also serves unique dishes such as emu in sweet potato puree and maple leaf duck breast. The restaurant has one of the best covered patios in the area, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoors while remaining comfortable.
Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen, & Bar
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Wed-Sat, 5-9 PM
Spring House is located in the historic Bahnson House, which was built in the 1920s. Begin your evening at the cozy Library Bar before looking over Spring House’s menu, which changes every season to ensure dishes are made with the freshest ingredients.
The Katharine Brasserie & Bar
The Katharine is a French-influenced restaurant featuring a mix of French-inspired dishes and Southern classics. When the weather is pleasant, diners can enjoy eating on a patio that looks out onto downtown Winston-Salem.
Quanto Basta Italian Eatery & Wine Bar
$$
DINNER HOURS | Wed-Sat, 5-9 PM
Quanto Basta serves authentic Italian cuisine using recipes passed down from Chef Tim Grandinetti’s grandmother. The modern, dimly lit dining room and oversized bar are a perfect match to the menu’s Italian comfort food.
River Birch Lodge
$$
HOURS | Mon-Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM and Sun, 9 AM – 9 PM
River Birch Lodge offers a mountain-inspired culinary experience with an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a hunting lodge. Diner can enjoy classic dishes like Mama’s Lasagna or unique creations like Goat Cheese Ravioli.
Milner’s American Southern
$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Thurs, 4-8:30 PM; Fri-Sat, 4-9 PM; and Sun, 4-8:30 PM
Milner’s is a local leader for classic Southern-inspired food. Family-owned and operated for nearly two decades, Milner’s has won over diners with consistent dishes combined with unique culinary techniques. Make sure to try the beloved buttermilk fried chicken and shrimp & grits when you visit!
Meridian Restaurant
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Sun, 4:30-10 PM
Meridian offers a North Mediterranean-inspired menu crafted by Chef Mark Grohman, who prides himself on making everything from scratch. Aside from its innovative menu, the restaurant is also known for hosting private events and specialty wine dinners.
Sage & Salt Bistro
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Sun-Thurs, 4:30-9 PM and Fri-Sat, 4:30-10 PM
Sage & Salt Bistro’s rustic interior and warm lighting create an inviting ambiance. The menu boasts delectable wood fire dishes like the Yellowfin Tuna Tower and an extensive, award-winning wine list. Situated in Brookstown, its patio features unique views of Winston-Salem.
Tuscani
$$$
DINNER HOURS | Tues-Thurs, 4:00-9:00 PM and Fri-Sat, 4:00-11:00 PM
Located between the iconic RJR smokestacks in the historic Bailey Powerplant, Tuscani offers an upscale Italian and steakhouse dining experience. Diners will find refined cuisine, cocktails, and a warm yet elegant atmosphere.
Sushi Rose
$$
DINNER HOURS | Sun-Thur, 5:00-9:00 PM and Fri-Sat, 5:00-10:00 PM
Sushi Rosé is a modern Japanese-Peruvian fusion lounge in downtown Winston-Salem, serving artful sushi, vibrant small plates, and handcrafted cocktails in a sleek, energetic atmosphere.
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