Outdoor Dining Spaces Entice Foodies Year-round

Winter, spring, summer, and fall, Winston-Salem’s temperate climate draws diners outdoors to raise a glass and share a bite. Whether cozying up near the fire pit on a cool, fall evening or enjoying the fresh air of spring, these top restaurants offer inventive outdoor spaces and quaint patios for the ultimate al fresco experience. The city’s hottest new restaurant just opened at Bailey Park.

Named for the temperature (in Celsius) of its wood-fired oven, Six Hundred Degrees features a chic space and spacious outdoor patio under the iconic smokestack of the Bailey Power Plant. Chef-owners offer creative small plates and entrees, wood-fired to perfection. Open daily.

Located downtown in the 200-year-old Zevely House, Bernardin’s is known among locals as one of the city’s finest dining experiences. Start with the goat cheese tart or escargot before moving on to scallops, prime steak, or ahi tuna. For something unique, the duck breast with fig sauce and North Carolina emu are expertly prepared. Bernardin’s recently renovated its patio for elegant outdoor seating. Closed Sunday.

Family owned for more than 20 years, 1703 serves up classic French and nouvelle Southern cuisine in Winston-Salem’s Buena Vista neighborhood. The expertly sourced wine list pairs well with entrees like Boeuf Bourguignon, blackened swordfish, and the rack of lamb. The restaurant is also a go-to for group dinners and special events with an expansive outdoor area. Closed Monday.

Mozelle’s has been setting the standard for upscale Southern cuisine since 2008. With charming sidewalk seating, the West End bistro plates comfort food with an elegant touch. Choose from the shrimp and grits, fried chicken with peach chutney, tomato pie, or gourmet meatloaf. Save room for the bourbon pecan bread pudding with caramel sauce. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available. Closed Monday.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places — and the last standing house on “Millionaire’s Row” — this beautifully restored 1920s Spring House features artfully designed cozy nooks and crannies that lend themselves to intimate conversations. Before scoring a table on the shaded garden patio, stop by the Library Bar for a seasonal craft cocktail. Closed Sunday-Tuesday. Want to learn more foodie tidbits about Winston-Salem? Read more articles like this in our 2022 Destination Magazine.