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Winston-Salem was made for romance. With its brick-lined streets, ivy-draped courtyards, and twilight views that glow with Southern charm, it’s a city where time slows and hearts quicken. The romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem offer more than a meal; they create moments: flickering candlelight in historic homes, rooftop cocktails beneath Carolina skies, and flavors that linger long after the last bite.
Whether it’s your first spark or a lifetime flame, each meal here becomes part of your love story. Explore where warm lights meet bold flavors and where every table tells a love story.
Why Winston-Salem Feels Made for Love
Romance lives in the details of Winston-Salem. Stroll hand-in-hand through the cobbled streets of Old Salem, where gas lanterns flicker beside centuries-old buildings. Share a glass of wine in the Reynolda Gardens, fragrant with blooming roses in spring. Watch the sun dip below the skyline from a rooftop lounge downtown, or steal a quiet moment beneath the twinkling lights of Bailey Park.
With its blend of historic charm, artsy soul, and hidden gem beauty, Winston-Salem sets the perfect stage for love to unfold.
15 Romantic Restaurants in Winston-Salem for an Unforgettable Date Night
Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to steal away for an intimate evening, these 15 romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem promise the perfect setting. From candlelit courtyards to chef-inspired cuisine, each spot offers its own blend of ambiance, flavor, and heartfelt charm. Let your next date night begin here.
Top 5 Romantic Restaurants in Winston-Salem
Selection criteria – these picks are made annually by the MyWinston-Salem.com editorial staff. We take into account food quality, atmosphere, service, and consistency of quality across multiple visits. Here are the top 5 romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem this year:
Fine‑Dining Fire & Flavors
When romance calls for something refined and unforgettable, these fine-dining gems deliver. Expect white tablecloths, moody lighting, and expertly plated dishes that invite lingering glances across the table. From live-fire cooking to coastal indulgences, these restaurants set the bar for elegant date-night dining.
1. Bernardin’s Restaurant
Intimate and polished, Bernardin’s features soft lighting, plush upholstery, and a menu focused on fresh seafood and inventive pairings. Each dish, from oysters on the half shell to citrus-infused seabass, feels like a culinary embrace.
Easily one of Winston-Salem’s top romantic restaurants, it’s the go-to for upscale date nights. Be sure to ask about wine pairings to complement the ocean-fresh flavors.
Bernardin’s offers an elegant, romantic atmosphere that is perfect for connecting with your partner. Enjoy soft, soothing music, succulent food with the best local and seasonal ingredients, and excellent service. They specialize in seafood, lamb, veal, and beef, as well as pasta and poultry, and offer an extensive wine list to complement their meals.
- 901 W 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-725-6666
- Hours
- Monday-Saturday, 5 pm – 9 pm
2. Rooster’s: A Noble Grille
At Rooster’s, rustic elegance comes alive with an open kitchen, crackling wood-fired aromas, and a menu devoted to local, seasonal bounty. Couples can tuck into handcrafted plates while sharing a bottle of wine in the glow of warm, wood-toned surroundings and flickering candlelight.
The open kitchen fills the dining room with the irresistible aroma of wood-fired cooking, while warm wood beams, soft lighting, and crackling hearths create a setting that’s both cozy and sophisticated. Couples slip into intimate booths or side-by-side seats at the chef’s counter, savoring the dance of flame and flavor as dishes come to life before their eyes.
The menu romances your taste buds, featuring dishes like seared scallops with lemon beurre blanc, heritage pork paired with roasted root vegetables, or perfectly grilled ribeye finished with a touch of sea salt. The carefully curated wine list invites exploration, beckoning lovers to linger over one more glass as conversation flows late into the evening.
Rooster’s is truly one of the most romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem for couples who crave warmth, authenticity, and unforgettable flavor.
- 380 Knollwood St, Winston-Salem, NC
- (336) 777-8477
- Hours
- Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Friday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am – 10:00 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am – 9:00 pm
3. 600 (Six Hundred) Restaurant
Nestled in a cozy historic loft with exposed beams and glowing hearths, Six Hundred invites couples to share wood-fired creations and craft cocktails. Imagine stealing bites of their signature duck confit while the firelight dances – this is romance, plated. It’s a top romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem and the perfect setting for an intimate evening; don’t miss the chef’s wine-paired tasting menu.
The heart of Six Hundred is their wood-burning hearth, and their wish is to provide an unparalleled experience for guests.
With views of Bailey Park through the huge windows in the dining room, an indoor fireplace, and the original board-formed concrete walls from the RJR power station, a wonderful and romance-worthy atmosphere is created. Reserve a table on the large outdoor patio to dine in the fresh air or under the stars.
Their locally sourced food, cooked over oak and hickory coals, is outstanding. They offer exclusive varieties of wine by the glass, some from local vineyards, and the service is great. They also offer craft beer in cans and bottles, as well as specialty cocktails.
- 450 N Patterson Avenue, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-283-6754
- Hours
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 5 pm – 9 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 5 pm – 10 pm
4. Meridian Restaurant
Meridian offers an intimate escape for couples seeking a dining experience with global flair and local heart. Inside, the atmosphere is understated yet elegant, think soft earth tones, glowing sconces, and a hum of quiet conversation that makes every table feel like its own private world. It’s the kind of place where time slows, glasses clink gently, and flavors unfold with every thoughtful bite.
The menu is a Mediterranean-inspired love affair: house-made charcuterie, delicate crudo, braised lamb, duck confit, and seafood that melts on the tongue, all crafted from farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients. With a carefully curated wine list and a reputation for impeccable service, Meridian stands out as a romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem where food, mood, and memory come together in perfect harmony. It’s where couples go not just to eat, but to connect, celebrate, and indulge.
- 411 South Marshall Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- (336)722-8889
- Hours
- Tuesday-Sunday, 4:30 pm-10 pm
Chef‑Driven Casual Elegance
These cozy, elevated spots blend relaxed charm with culinary ambition, ideal for couples who appreciate creativity without formality. Think candlelit tables, innovative seasonal menus, and a vibe that says “special” without trying too hard. It’s where locals go to celebrate love over flavor-forward plates.
5. 1703 Restaurant
Historic charm meets chef-forward flair at 1703, where colonial-era brick and candlelight complement a culinary narrative of elevated comfort food. Think buttermilk-brined chicken and locally foraged mushrooms, all served with an intimate attention to detail.
This is a romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem tailored to couples who crave both taste and story in every bite.
Chef de Cuisine Curtis Hackaday utilizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to craft menus that change daily and showcase artistry in plating. The outdoor dining area is very lovely, enclosed, and heated in the winter.
The restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. 1703 tends to draw an older crowd and is just outside downtown Winston-Salem.
- 1703 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-725-5767
- Hours
- Tuesday-Friday, Lunch – 11:30 am – 2 pm; Dinner – 5:30 pm – 9 pm
- Saturday, 5:30 pm – 9 pm
- Sunday, Brunch – 10:30 am – 2 pm; Dinner – 5:30 pm – 9 pm
6. Downtown Grille
Tucked away in a beautifully restored historic building, Downtown Grille offers warm lighting and rich wooden tones, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking refined comfort and ambiance. Indulge in premium steaks and seasonal seafood paired with a sommelier-curated wine list.
Right in the middle of downtown, it’s a great spot to catch the action and is on the lower floor of a corporate building. Perfect for an after-work date with your significant other.
As one of the most romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem, it’s perfect for celebrations and intimate dinners alike. Reserve your cozy corner and toast to timeless flavor together. They also offer a Wine Dinner each month featuring different wines, making for a unique romantic date.
- 500 W 5th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-930-1485
- Hours
- Tuesday-Thursday, 4:30 pm – 9 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 4:30 pm – 10 pm
7. Spring House
Set in a beautifully remodeled Southern mansion, Spring House enchants with elegant parlors and candlelit tables under leafy canopies. Here, Lowcountry–meets–farm-to-table cuisine mingles with curated cocktails in a setting that whispers romance. This is a romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem made for savoring both conversation and chef-driven plates. Don’t miss the shrimp & grits under a flickering lantern.
Voted Most Romantic Restaurant and Best Date Night, a couple can enjoy the grandeur and atmosphere of dining in one of the many dining rooms throughout the house or on the garden patio. For something more romantic, make a reservation in the Spring House Library Bar and Lounge, where you can enjoy dinner in the corner of their blue velvet lounge or cozy up to the fireplace with a cocktail and appetizer.
- 450 N Spring Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-293-4797
- Hours
- Wednesday-Saturday, 5 pm – 9 pm
8. Quanto Basta Italian Eatery & Wine Bar
At Quanto Basta, romance blooms the moment you walk through the door. Exposed brick walls, flickering candlelight, and vintage chandeliers set the stage for a dining experience that feels straight from a Tuscan love story. The air hums with the sound of laughter, the clink of wine glasses, and the comforting aromas of garlic, basil, and wood-fired pizza dough rising in the oven.
Couples linger over handmade pastas, pillowy gnocchi, delicate ravioli, perfectly al dente linguine, paired with rich, velvety sauces and rustic Italian wines. Tiramisu arrives at the table like a soft, sweet finish, practically made for two spoons and one shared smile.
Quanto Basta is a romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem where la dolce vita lives on every plate, inviting you to slow down, savor, and celebrate love in its most delicious form.
- 680 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-893-6144
- Hours
- Wednesday -Saturday: 5 pm-9 pm
Garden‑Style & Patio Romance
Few things are more romantic than dining al fresco under the stars. These restaurants offer garden courtyards, glowing lanterns, and fresh air kissed with culinary magic. Whether you’re wrapped in a blanket or sipping wine under twinkling lights, these patios turn every meal into a love story.
9. 6th And Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar
Picture vineyard-inspired stone walls, twinkling overhead lights, and a curated wine list, 6th & Vine offers a warm and cozy escape. Perfect for a romantic dinner in Winston-Salem, it combines small plates and soulful flavors, featuring locally sourced charcuterie and chef-crafted flatbreads.
Located downtown, this wine bar-style establishment is a perfect spot for a date. Slip in for a quiet evening with a glass of pinot and soft music in the background. A live band often plays on Fridays and weekends.
6th and Vine features an outdoor patio that’s perfect for a romantic meal. Surrounded by gardens and illuminated by tiny lights, the tables are well-spaced, allowing for intimate conversations and connections. They offer 20 wines by the glass and a full selection of beverages.
Wine tastings take place each month, making for an interesting date night, and special themed wine dinners are also available. Half-price wine is available on Thursdays and Sundays, and a Sunday brunch is served from 11 am to 3 pm.
6th and Vine Website | 6th and Vine Instagram
- 209 W 6th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-725-5577
- Hours
- Wednesday & Thursday, 4 pm – 8:30 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 11 am – 9:30 pm
- Sunday, 11 am – 8 pm
10. The Katherine Brasserie And Bar
Set within the elegant Katharine Hotel, this French-inspired brasserie captivates with soft jazz, velvet banquettes, and artful bistro fare. Whether you’re toasting with Champagne or savoring a truffle mushroom risotto, The Katharine embodies the essence of romantic dining in Winston-Salem. Tables fill up fast, reserve now for a date night to remember.
The Katherine, located downtown in the historic former RJ Reynolds building, offers the charm of a traditional French Cafe and the beauty of the landmark location. It is an open split-level design with pockets of intimacy, perfect for a romantic evening.
- 401 N Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-761-0203
- Hours
- Daily Breakfast, 6:30am – 10am
- Saturday & Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 2 pm
- Monday-Friday Lunch, 11 am – 2 pm
- Daily Dinner, 5 pm – 10 pm
- Daily Bar, 3 pm – 11 pm
11. Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro
Mozelle’s radiates charm from its corner in Winston-Salem’s West End, where cozy tables spill onto a lantern-lit patio and the atmosphere hums with quiet intimacy. Since 2008, this local gem has cultivated the perfect blend of casual elegance and Southern warmth.
Whether you’re cuddling up under an outdoor heater on a cool evening or dining inside near the picture windows, Mozelle’s invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Chef Jay Pierce’s menu is a love letter to Southern comfort with a seasonal twist, think heirloom tomato pie layered with succotash, savory shrimp and grits, and bourbon pecan bread pudding worth every spoonful.
With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-sensitive offerings, plus a thoughtful wine and beer selection, Mozelle’s proves that romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem can be both soulfully flavorful and refreshingly inclusive. Bring your favorite bottle for a low corkage fee, and let the magic unfold one delicious bite at a time.
- 878 W. Fourth St.
- 336-703-5400
- Hours
- Every day from 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Global Date‑Night Options
Travel the world through flavor without ever leaving Winston-Salem. This globally inspired spot is perfect for couples who bond over bold spices, exotic pairings, and shared plates. It’s a full romance with a twist of adventure and a passport for the palate.
12. HakkaChow – Asian Eats
Romance isn’t limited to white-tablecloth establishments; HakkaChow proves it with bold, shared dishes in a lively, lantern-lit space. Vibrant noodles, dumplings, and scented teas offer a playful, modern take on romantic dining in Winston-Salem.
Ideal for couples who bond over global flavors and cozy communal plates, this spot blends intimacy and culinary adventure.
Low lighting and a romantic atmosphere create a wonderful ambiance, especially if you request booth seating. The menu offers many exciting dishes made from scratch, inspired by Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, or Indian cuisines. Enjoy one of the weekly drink specials with your meal and have a relaxed, pleasant evening.
- 615 Saint George Square Ct, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-893-8178
- Hours
- Tuesday-Thursday, 11:30 am – 9:30 pm
- Friday, 11:30 am – 10 pm
- Saturday, 12 pm – 10 pm
- Sunday, 12 pm – 9 pm
Steaks, Seafood & Timeless Classics
For couples who crave comfort with class, these Winston-Salem favorites offer hearty dishes with refined flair. Think sizzling steaks, fresh seafood, and candlelit tables that have hosted decades of date nights. They’re timeless for a reason and always the right choice for a romantic meal.
13. Jeffrey Adams
Located in the heart of downtown, Jeffrey Adams on Fourth Street seamlessly blends contemporary style with warm Southern hospitality, making it perfect for couples seeking a chic yet approachable date night. The space is stylish and softly lit, with exposed brick walls and an upscale urban vibe that invites you to linger.
The menu is a thoughtful showcase of regional flavors, featuring wood-fired steaks, fresh seafood, house-made pasta, and seasonal vegetables sourced from local farms. With an extensive wine and craft cocktail selection, Jeffrey Adams stands out among romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem for food lovers who crave both sophistication and soul.
There is a warm and inviting atmosphere, with seating available on the first or second floor or the more intimate Barrel Room. Take an after-dinner walk downtown to complete the night.
- 321 W 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-448-1714
- Hours
- Tuesday-Thursday, 4 pm – 9 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 4 pm – 10 pm
- Sunday, 4 pm – 9 pm
14. Milner’s
Milner’s wraps diners in upscale elegance with dimmed chandeliers and contemporary Southern cuisine. The menu features dishes like seared scallops and pecan-crusted duck paired with boutique wines. As a romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem, Milner’s balances bold flavors with a cozy ambiance, ideal for marking special moments or simply enjoying each other’s company in style.
Milner’s features a comfortable dining room with a warm ambiance, soft music, and a perfect setting for conversation. Start your evening in their bar, which has a cozy, at-home feel. Sit in club chairs and enjoy a cocktail or craft beer near the fireplace.
- 630 S Stratford Road, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-768-2221
- Hours
- Tuesday-Thursday, 4 pm – 8:30 pm (last seating)
- Friday & Saturday, 4 pm – 9 pm (last seating)
- Sunday, Brunch, 11 am – 1:45 pm (last seating); Dinner, 4 pm – 8:30 pm (last seating)
15. Ryan’s
A long-loved Winston-Salem institution, Ryan’s is beloved for its classic steak dinners, subdued lighting, and polished service. While its traditional charm sets the tone, the USDA Prime cuts and creamy sides take center stage.
For couples seeking a familiar yet refined evening, Ryan’s remains a steadfast romantic restaurant in Winston-Salem.
Ryan’s is an exceptional choice for a romantic dinner. Tucked away in a wooded area, it offers an intimate atmosphere with views of giant oaks and a stream from the windows, or dine out on the Starlight Deck. In the winter, the warmth of a crackling fireplace sets the mood. The setting is quiet and perfect for conversation. Entrees include steaks, prime rib, grilled fresh fish, and live Maine lobster.
- 719 Coliseum Drive, Winston-Salem, NC
- 336-724-6132
- Hours
- Monday-Thursday, 5 pm – 9:30 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 5 pm – 10 pm
Enjoy A Nightcap at These Lively Spots with Cocktails & Vibe
Before a dinner date, or instead of dinner, why not enjoy a drink in one of Winston-Salem’s best cocktail lounges where you can sip, talk, and get to know each other? You can even find some locations with drink specials on different nights. Pick a place that sounds fun or romantic.
Make It a Full Day (or Weekend) of Romance in Winston-Salem
Romance in Winston-Salem doesn’t end with dinner; it begins there. After savoring a dreamy meal, let the city sweep you off your feet with even more enchanting ways to connect.
Stroll hand-in-hand through one of the city’s charming art galleries, where creativity sparks conversation and shared wonder. Book a night at one of Winston-Salem’s historic hotels, grand inns with stories in their walls and charm in every room. Planning something bigger? The city’s wedding venues offer stunning backdrops for proposals, anniversaries, or vow renewals.
And for couples who crave a bit of exploration, there’s no shortage of scenic escapes. Take a romantic day trip to nearby vineyards, trails, or small-town gems that turn time together into lasting memories. Whether you stay in town or wander a little farther, Winston-Salem is filled with opportunities to fall in love again and again.
Share Your Favorite Romantic Spots
We’d love to hear from you! What romantic restaurants in Winston-Salem swept you off your feet? Or a magical date-night memory you’ll never forget? Share your recommendations and stories in the comments below; your tips might just inspire someone else’s perfect night out. Let’s keep the love flowing across our city, one unforgettable evening at a time.
