I love food. I also love my hometown of Winston-Salem and all its glorious restaurants. Needless to say, I was a little taken aback when I searched for “Top 5 Restaurants In Winston-Salem” and the results returned listicles filled with franchise restaurants like Chili’s and Carraba’s. Not that I’m against them, but I know for dang sure there are some awesome independent restaurants to eat in Winston. With that in mind, I embarked on a journey to share with you my favorite places to eat in (and around) the beautiful city of Winston-Salem.

6. Vincenzo’s

Located on Robinhood Road, this treasure has been in operation since 1964. It’s family-owned and family-friendly. And the food is AMAZING. Nothing on this menu is bad. Spaghetti? Awesome. Cheese ravioli? Top-notch. Pizza? Pretty sure it’s made by angels. The servers are all genuinely polite and friendly and the wait time for your meal is never too long.

They take great care of their customers, and work hard to meet any special needs you may have-- from dietary restrictions to special needs seating. So the next time you want Italian, head over to Vincenzo’s!

Recommendation: the chicken alfredo followed by some spumoni for dessert!

5. The Flour Box Tea Room and Cafe

Planning a lunch or coffee outing with your girls but don’t know where to go? Check out The Flour Box in Old Salem. Using local ingredients, they craft deliciously simple meals that suit a variety of tastes, budgets, and needs. They’re also accommodating of folks with dietary restrictions, so don’t fear if you’re gluten-free or vegan! They’ll take care of you. Just ask.

In addition to great lunch options, they offer a selection of fresh pastries and other sweets that pair perfectly with one of their myriad of teas or coffees. And they serve the drinks in adorable teacups. You can’t beat that!

Recommendation: roasted red pepper soup and the flat bread of the day

4. Yeh Mon Caribbean Restaurant

This place gives you big bang for your buck, and offers a wide selection of the most iconic Caribbean foods. From ackee and salt fish to Jamaican-style curries, they’ve got everything. They also make fresh cakes daily, so don’t miss out on dessert! If you’re looking for something differently delicious, Yeh Mon on Lockland Avenue is the place to go.

Recommendation: curry chicken and rice with banana cake for dessert!

3. Silo Bistro and Bar

Built in a converted dairy barn in Reynolda Village, Silo is a great place for lunch, brunch, or early dinner! They stock awesome local produce and meats, so everything is wonderfully fresh. They also serve a selection of local craft beers, so if you’re looking for a neat place to grab a drink after work, this is the place to go.

Recommendation: chicken bowl with a Sunshine to drink!

2. Five Points

I would vote this Stratford Road gem the best brunch in Winston-Salem, hands down. Why? You ask. Because chicken and waffles, I answer. Five Points is home of the best chicken tenders— lightly breaded and seasoned, then fried to glorious, golden perfection— and their Belgian waffles are the perfect combination of crunchy and soft. Additionally, they give you cinnamon bread and fresh strawberry butter. Drooling yet?

If brunch isn’t your thing, try lunch or dinner. With a selection of delicious salads, sandwiches and seafood, you can’t go wrong!

Recommendation (dinner): the spinach artichoke dip for an appetizer, and rosemary chicken for an entree

1. Muddy Creek Cafe and Music Hall

If you live in Winston-Salem and haven’t been to Muddy Creek you need to make that a goal. Located in the historic Bethania Mill— just north of Winston-Salem— this place is quickly becoming a staple to many musicians, music lovers, and foodies. They have live music pretty much every night of the week, and the best dang pimento cheese you will ever put in your face.

They also have great local beers, wine and local and old-time sodas. On top of that, they always have special events going on— from arts and craft markets to seasonally-themed projects. There’s something for everyone here, so pick a night and head out!

Recommendation: stop by on July 16 for their Girls in the Creek Festival, celebrating women in music! Also, get a chicken salad sandwich with a sweet tea!

Whether you've tried these restaurants or not, I hope you keep them on your list for the next time you come through town!