West Highlands has quietly become one of Winston-Salem’s most delicious neighborhoods—a place where neighborhood favorites, foodie haunts, and hidden gems coexist within leafy streets and historic architecture. Whether you’re looking for locally roasted coffee, a knockout brunch, or an inventive dinner destination, West Highlands delivers, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a memorable meal in the city. Here’s your guide to the standouts, secret spots, and beloved traditions that make this area a true food destination.
Main Street Marvels and Culinary Clusters
One of the undisputed joys of eating in West Highlands is how walkable and compact the main food cluster is. Though the neighborhood is primarily residential, its food scene flourishes along West First Street, Cloverdale Avenue, and the intersections near Forsyth Medical Center. This is where you’ll find everything from historic bakeries and cozy coffeehouses to destination-worthy bistros.
Standout Restaurants: From Southern Classics to Global Flair
- River Birch Lodge (3324 Robinhood Rd)
- Step into River Birch Lodge and the warmth is immediate—thanks to its rustic, woodsy ambiance and a crackling central fireplace. The menu highlights locally sourced meats and Southern classics, but don’t sleep on their wood-fired pizzas, wild-caught salmon, or their legendary elk meatloaf. Prices range from $12-$30.
- *What makes it special:* The lodge-like feel and devotion to seasonal, local ingredients make this a neighborhood institution.
- Bonnie & Clyde’s Appalachian Cuisine (Corner of NW Blvd & Stratford Rd)
- An homage to North Carolina’s mountain roots, this family-owned gem nails traditional Appalachian favorites—think house-cured country ham, collard greens, and skillet cornbread. Main dishes run $10-$24, but don’t miss the Sunday fried chicken special.
- *Hidden gem alert:* Their vinegar pie is a little-known local delicacy that draws fans from across the city.
- Village Tavern (2210 Cloverdale Ave)
- With a convivial vibe and a sprawling patio, this iconic spot is beloved for its wood-oven burgers, hand-cut steaks, and a bountiful weekend brunch. Prices are in the $14-$28 range.
- *Neighborhood tradition:* Locals swear by the Tavern Chips—house-made and smothered in blue cheese and scallions.
Cozy Cafés and Crafty Breakfasts
- Camino Bakery (310B Cloverdale Ave)
- Wake up and smell the espresso! Camino Bakery buzzes with local energy—part study spot, part neighborhood meet-up. Enjoy flaky pastries, crusty sourdough, and beautifully crafted lattes. A coffee and a pastry costs under $7.
- *Why locals love it:* Their honey almond croissant is a cult favorite, often selling out before noon.
- Midtown Café and Dessertery (151 S Stratford Rd)
- An all-day breakfast mecca, Midtown boasts fluffy pancakes, decadent cakes, and beloved omelets. Mains run $9-$17.
- *Sweet treat tip:* The coconut cake is legendary, with towering layers and a devoted fan base.
Bakeries, Sweet Spots & Artisanal Goodies
- Dewey’s Bakery (262 S Stratford Rd)
- No list of West Highlands food icons would be complete without Dewey’s. This Winston-Salem mainstay has been churning out Moravian sugar cakes, paper-thin cookies, and all manner of old-school bakery treats for generations. A box of cookies starts around $6.
- *Homegrown tradition:* Dewey’s Moravian sugar cake is a local holiday staple, but you’ll want it all year.
- Black Mountain Chocolate Bar (450 N Patterson Ave—close to West Highlands cluster)
- While technically just outside West Highlands proper, this bean-to-bar chocolatier is worth the short detour. Sip drinking chocolate, order a brownie flight, or take home a box of bonbons. Prices from $3-$15.
- *Why go:* It’s a dreamy date-night spot, and you can watch chocolate being made through the glass.
Food Trucks and Pop-Ups: Mobile Marvels
Keep an eye out for Urban Street Grill and other local food trucks that frequently park at Cloverdale Plaza or along West First Street. Urban Street Grill specializes in Korean BBQ tacos (around $10 for a plate) and has a loyal following for its spicy Bulgogi bowls—a perfect grab-and-go lunch for hospital workers or anyone on the move.
Find them on weekends at the corner of Cloverdale Ave and Miller St.
International Flavors in a Friendly Neighborhood
The best neighborhoods draw inspiration from around the world, and West Highlands is no exception:
- Village Juice Company (205 S Stratford Rd)
- If you’re after clean eats, check out Village Juice’s cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and inventive, Instagram-ready salads ($8-$13). Vegan and gluten-free options abound.
- Pasta Amore (1345 West First St)
- Tucked away between boutiques, Pasta Amore delivers red-sauce comfort in an intimate (sometimes noisy) setting. Homemade ravioli and lasagna are the stars, with entrées $13-$22.
- *Hidden gem whispers:* Ask for the off-menu tiramisu, made with locally roasted espresso.
Unpretentious Pub Grub and Classic Hangouts
- Burke Street Pizza (1140 Burke St)
- It’s not fancy, but Burke Street’s NY-style pies and friendly bar make it West Highlands’ go-to for late-night eats. Grab a massive slice for $3 or a whole pie for under $20.
- *Locals’ choice:* The “White Pie” (ricotta, garlic, spinach, mozzarella).
- Elizabeth’s Pizza (2824 Reynolda Rd)
- An Italian-American classic, Elizabeth’s delivers hearty, reliable plates of pasta and pizza. Easy on the wallet with plenty of booth seating for families.
Final Foodie Tips: What Makes West Highlands Special
West Highlands’ magic lies in its blend of homegrown tradition, friendly faces, and evolving flavors. Whether you grew up on Moravian sugar cake or you’re looking for the next brunch hotspot, the neighborhood delivers every time—often just around the corner or a short stroll away.
Don’t forget: the food scene here thrives on word-of-mouth, so keep your ears open for pop-up dessert counters, special seasonal menus, and neighborhood festivals. West Highlands may seem quiet at first glance, but for locals in the know, it’s Winston-Salem’s low-key culinary capital.