Winston-Salem is no New York City when it comes to restaurants, but there are definitely still some worth checking out when you are in town. In the last 1.5 years, I certainly can give some insight into where you should head to when you are in need of a meal out.

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Katherine Brasserie‍

Coming in at number one, the Katherine Brasserie, located in the Kimpton Hotel. Not only are the food and drinks the best around, but when you are inside the restaurant, it might shock you that you are in a college town. The Katherine is a great spot when you are looking to treat yourself to a dinner out, or even better when your parents are visiting and want to treat you to a break from the pit. The truffle fries are a MUST.

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A Noble Grille‍

Another favorite and more up-scale restaurant is A Noble Grille. I didn’t know about this gem until this year, and ever since, it has been one of my favorite places when I am looking for a good quality meal. My comfort order is the arugula salad with grilled chicken, always with a side of brussels sprouts - they are incredible. Also, another great spot to bring parents when they are in town!

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Cibo Trattoria‍

Coming in at number three is Cibo Trattoria. If you are looking for Italian food in Winston-Salem, this should be your go-to. Cibo is one of those restaurants that you can go to when you are simply just craving Italian food, or when you want to have a fun dinner with your friends for a celebration. Perfect for all occasions, and home of the best pasta in Winston, you must give it a try. My friends' favorites include the calamari, brussels sprouts, and rigatoni alla vodka, just to name a few!

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Village Tavern‍

Village Tavern is one of those places that you can show up to in sweatpants for a Sunday brunch or in nice dresses on Easter, and regardless of the time of day or occasion, there will always be a line. Village Tavern has about anything you could ever want on the menu and makes everything just how you would want it as well. With a menu ranging from spring rolls to salads to fries, there is truly something for everyone, regardless of the mood you are in. Give this Winston classic a try when you want a good meal out.

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Cugino Forno‍

This wouldn’t be a restaurant guide without mentioning Cugino Forno. The atmosphere alone could convince me to go any day of the week, not to mention the incredible artisanal pizza that they have absolutely perfected. For me, the Funghi pizza is always ordered without fail because what could be better than truffle on pizza?? Grab friends, wine, and get on your way to Cugino.

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Diolis‍

At this point, I think I lost sight of the rankings because every restaurant I’m sharing is top tier in Winston and Diolis definitely doesn’t fall short of that. Diolis isn’t your average deli, they have created a masterpiece in the minds of everyone but especially Wake Forest students. The breakfast sandwiches are life-changing always but especially on a Saturday morning.

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Mozelle's‍

To finish off this Winston-Salem restaurant guide, I want to introduce Mozelle's. This true southern gem is in the heart of downtown and never fails to be a great dinner or brunch option. As a Northeasterner, Mozelle’s is even more of a treat as nothing comes close to comparison back at home. Two of my favorites on the menu include the fried pickles and edamame hummus; you must give them a shot!

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When you find yourself in Winston, whether it be for a tour of Wake Forest, a visit to friends or family members, or if you are lucky, your new college town, be sure to try out some of these Winston-Salem classics and let us know what you liked best!

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