A very special place - I came in on the recommendation of a local, and wasn't disappointed! Sat by myself at the bar, and have to say the service was outstanding- friendly, engaging. And entertaining in the way the best bar seats can be! Couldn't help myself, and got the pork belly Mac and Cheese- it was next level. Perfectly cooked pork and pasta, and just the right amount of cheese- took half home and was delighted to have the leftovers! Trout was just ok, but nicely cooked- I should have gone for a more flavorable dish to really let the kitchen do their thing. I was charmed and impressed by this spot, and can't wait to go back. read more

West End Cafe - Exterior shot showing the bench and koi pond! - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

This was such a great find when visiting in Winston Salem. There were a ton of friendly locals, so we knew we were in a great spot! They have a huge menu, so it's hard to choose. They have a lot of salad and sandwich options, but a little bit of everything. We had great service and enjoyed waiting outside by the coi pond. read more

West End Cafe - Bacon, turkey, ham from the favorites list...this was huge! - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

A simple restaurant doing extraordinary dishes that you don't want to miss. My family came in for lunch at opening excited at the menu. Reuben sandwich and French dip sandwich? Yes please! Cooked to perfection with two tasty sides that fit perfectly. Crunchy fries and a tangy pasta salad. My stomach was happy but then a divine light came through the window to show off a truly special dish on the wall of their specials.. Cake. I ordered the Dubai chocolate cake while my wife ordered a blueberry lemon cake. Both were rich in flavors and the perfect end to a meal. Also have to give it to our waitress who was beyond sweet. She helped us with any questions we had and was prompt on refilling drinks and helping where she could. 5 star experience. You won't be disappointed eating in. read more

We came here on a Monday night around 6:30pm. Our server was great and the restaurant was busy. Every table was full and not a seat at the bar was empty. We started with the spinach salad and the ginger beef steamed bao buns. The spinach salad was really good with the vinaigrette. I loved that they chopped the spinach into smaller pieces. The bacon was a nice add to it as well. The bao buns were dry, but the beef inside was good with the aioli and cucumber slaw. The seared Atlantic salmon was overcooked. The roasted carrot mash and wild Berry rosemary compote made it more palatable. The pot roast was exquisite. It was moist, soft, well-seasoned and delicious. read more

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recently stopped by and decided to try one of their wraps. It was pretty good, but honestly, after seeing how extensive their menu is, I feel like I could've explored something else too because they have a lot of great options to choose from. The staff was super friendly and welcoming, which always makes a difference. Overall, it's a great spot whether you're looking for lunch or dinner. I'd definitely come back and try something new next time! read more

Had lunch here recently. We were greeted walking in and sat at the window by the Koi pond. Our server who was professional and friendly brought us menus and waters. After giving the menu a good look, I opted for the Rueben sandwich on rye bread with potato salad with a fountain gingerale. The sando was tasty and well made, the potato salad though small was very good as well. All in all a good lunch. Had the Chocolate cake with whipped cream for dessert, it was just okay. Actually on the dry side. It looked better than it tasted and did not match the sandwiches quality. Still a decent lunch, should of passed on the cake. 3.5 Stars rounded up for the staff 01194 read more

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I believe the experience here is phenomenal. When you first walk in it's a very home-y feel. The food is delicious and came out very timely. The staff are very friendly and ask if you need anything. Even asked if we wanted to-go waters! (Very thoughtful!) If you're looking for good food, nice atmosphere and very decent prices.. definitely come here! read more

West End Cafe - Bae - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

Service was meh. We're tourist and we went with a group. I went to a nearby cafe and had a drink in my hand trying to finish it. I went in and there was no "hello", no "good afternoon", just a firm "no outside drinks allowed". After she changed her tone, the experience got better. The server was good too but felt like she was in a rush and her ADHD gave me anxiety. I thought this was a cafe, but it's more of a diner style location. Aside from that, the food was good. I got a pink lemonade that was pretty good. I also got a hoagie with ground beef that in my opinion, was AMAZING but kind of salty. The fries... get the fries! The fries were amazing. read more

West End Cafe - Burger with fries on the side. - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

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Went for the first time on a date night and had a wonderful time! High end food without too much snobbery involved. Everything we ate was delicious, but I would especially recommend the kimchi mac and cheese. That was a winner! Cassandra was our server too, and she was quite friendly and attentive. To be fair, she's clearly aware her job is to upsell and get a bigger tip, and she's quite good at it. We loved the koi pond out front, and while the inside can be somewhat cramped when busy, the wait for the two of us to be seated wasn't long at all. Great place for a date night! read more

West End Cafe - Kimchi mac and cheese - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

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Some days what you planned and what God had in store for you are different things, and it turns out exactly right. I had an odd hour between events which is enough time for a real meal instead of a fast food grab and go, and I knew West End Cafe would have quick turnaround in the kitchen and a solid meal. But when I get takeaway from them I lean towards a po'boy and fries, always good even with the lag to eat later, and today I just wasn't quite there. So I pulled up a barstool and asked for a recommendation; the bartender listed some favorites in each section (leading with the reuben, which is my former boss's fave; I know that's a solid pick too). Today I decided to go with shrimp and grits, subbing in fried oysters for the shrimp, because you seize the opportunity when you can. It came out beautiful and piping hot, and I was so excited for it! Then immediately downcast to experience what I'm going to call grits of the north. (Never trust grits above the Mason-Dixon line unless you know the chef personally.) I sent it back as "still cornmeal, not grits yet", and got profuse apologies, confirmation from the bartender that yes, the grits were indeed undercooked, and in light of that, would I like something different instead? I went with another of his recs, the pretzels crusted salmon salad, which when it arrived was, as I led in this note, exactly what I didn't know I wanted. And in the waiting for the reorder to land, I was given some fried oysters in the tasso ham sauce that would have topped the grits. While, not what I started with, so much better. read more

West End Cafe - pretzel crusted salmon salad - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

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I really enjoyed my visit. It has been a while since I went somewhere and cleaned my plate. The fish sandwich was really good. The fish was good quality, lightly breaded and topped with fresh lettuce and tomato. The tartar sauce really paired well. I thought it could use a little bit more seasoning on the fish, but I was satisfied with my meal. The pasta salad complimented the sandwich very well. I wish I had more than the small cup. The red zinger tea was really good. It doesn't have sugar, but that's exactly how I like it. The super friendly and attentive waitress asked if we wanted dessert. I asked for the chocolate cake. Yum! Yum! So good! I will definitely return. read more

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You can't go wrong with anything you pick out from their menu. Everything is so delicious, and it's one of those places where I always feel like trying something new, and I know it's going to be delicious. The service is very friendly and attentive, and the restaurant has that neighborhood vibe where everyone knows each other, making it a welcoming experience. read more

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Came here wanting breakfast but it's hard to find around the area on a weekday after 11 apparently. Also many restaurants in the area have less than stellar health reviews. Ended up getting a salad and soup and potato pancakes. Everything was good just nothing remarkable that made me want to keep coming back read more

Reliable and consistent - good food and good service. Cozy, no-frills atmosphere. I always get the pretzel crusted salmon salad. Always.

Rolled up to a packed house and had to wait outside for a bit, which was mildly painful because I operate on a strict "feed me now or I get dramatic" policy. But honestly? Totally worth it. Once we got in, the vibe was solid, our server was friendly and on top of it, and -- plot twist -- the food came out fast. Like, "Did they read our minds?" fast. We all got sandwiches, and every single one was a knockout. Flavorful, fresh, and not a sad deli meat stack in sight. 4/5 stars because I don't give out perfect scores unless someone brings me fries before I ask. But this place? Absolutely worth a return trip. Just bring a snack for the wait. read more

Just a quick shout out for West End Cafe. We have been here a few times now & whether it's a salad, sandwich or dinner entree it's always delicious! Today we ordered the Reuben & I ordered the Heavy hoagie, a first for me. The Reuben was delicious but I have to admit the Hoagie may be my favorite so far! It's like a steak & cheese on steroids! I will try the chicken next time, don't pass it up if you are walking in hungry! Service is always friendly & prices are good. Thanks West End! read more

Really loved our first long awaited visit here!! Went the day before Xmas eve, 7 pm, maybe a 15 min wait. Felt immediately welcome and at home, even with our 2.5 year old present. Usually we don't go to too many restaurants because kids are made to feel like a nuisance, but not here, they even have toys you can borrow if needed and of course crayons and a large coloring mat! I really appreciated that. The food and drinks were great. Got the crab dip, Reuben, and autumn tagliatelle pasta. All delicious and came out hot and fast! So excited to keep coming back here. Just a great environment, great service, and great food. I would say perfect for dates/couples, friends, and families. read more

Went last night and has been true in the thirty years I've been going wonderful as usual. I ordered from the dinner menu and had the salmon entree with succotash and it was delicious and tender. What is lovely about West End Cafe is that you can have something for dinner that rivals the finer spots in town but you can also get a great sandwich and fries if that's your preference and either way enjoy your meal and leave happy. The service is prompt and friendly and it always feels like home because if you live here you really are home. read more

West end cafe should be a restaurant rotation staple for everyone in Winston! They have a clean and classically decorated restaurant with very friendly staff and a good variety on the menu. Their sandwiches are a favorite for me and they have so many good options from the steak sandwich to fantastic cold subs. You can't go wrong at West End Cafe! read more

West End Cafe - Steak Sandwich - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

We had an impromptu lunch at West End Cafe and it was the perfect lunch spot! I love that they have over 20 different sandwiches on their menu to choose from, both hot and cold. Every also have salads and soups to go with your Sammy! I got the Italian sub hot with pasta salad and it was everything you'd want in a sandwich and more. Thick slices of meat with creamy pasta - YES! I highly recommend these guys for lunch and I'm itching to go back and try other menu items! read more

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I had the Mediterranean salad with blackened shrimp instead of the meat the salad comes with and it was worth the price. The ranch was clearly homemade and the vegetables were delicious and fresh. I called my order in and the folks were friendly and helpful. Outside the restaurant was nice, but I didn't get to enjoy the inside as I was picking up. Maybe next time as I will definitely be eating there again! read more

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this place has gone completely downhill. the hostess and co manager "Stacy" is absolutely crazy and is so rude. She orders people around and some of my friends say she rushes them out the door as soon as they finish their food! Forget sitting and talking to a friend for a few minutes! The waitresses run around like crazy and acted so stressed out. Even the manager looks like he's miserable. Our waitress "Cassandra" lacked personality and it was our 3rd time having her. My food was sub par. I won't be going back. I'm still amazed at the way Stacy treats customers! read more

This venerable west end restaurant has been a favorite for nearly 30 years, and I have never had a bad meal. The menu offerings are varied and plentiful, with some unexpected choices for a neighborhood diner in an upscale area. They offer several good appetizers (Fried Calamari & Asian Style Tacos are very nice), a handful of fresh tasting salads, a great Burger (mix of sirloin, Kobe brisket, & short rib), nice selection of sandwiches, and a few main entrees. The menu changes fairly often, so check before you go or just go, there be more than one thing you'll like! Last time in I chose the California Cobb Salad, containing bacon, boiled egg, tomatoes, avocado, radish, blue cheese. And I chose their Blue Cheese dressing. This was a very good salad with a nice mixture of tastes and textures, and the dressing was excellent, bringing it all together. Note: the food here is usually very good, but it is not at all inexpensive. The salad above was $15! read more

West End Cafe - California Cobb Salad - $15, bit pricy - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

Service is always great, the food is always good. I love the variety and fair prices. The place is cozy and a classic for a reason!

Many many many vegetarian items. I was so impressed. There is a vegetarian section on the menu in addition to many being in the regular section. The service was impeccable. The server was genuinely kind. I felt like we could be friends by the end of the meal. There was a huge full bar, which I didn't expect. Very casual place but very enjoyable. read more

A great place for lunch! I have actually been here once or twice before, but the last time before my stop the other day had been years, so I was ready to have a fresh, post-pandemic experience and see how things have changed. The answer is, they haven't! Still a great place for a sandwich, salad, or a hot plate. Definitely still has a good size lunch crowd, your full party must arrive before being seated, so keep that in mind. I love a good reuben, and there have a darn good one here. I love that you can get both pastrami and corned beef on the sandwich. It comes on grilled rye bread with just enough 1000 island and sauerkraut for my taste. My side of fries with ranch was perfectly done, and I love the slightly thicker version of "the good ranch" they have here. Clearly made in house. The service here is fantastic. You can tell the people working there enjoy doing so. All the staff has great personality and banter between themselves and the customers. I was helped by the bartender, and she was on top of everything. Never an empty drink, an uncleared plate, or a wait for the check. It was impressive how fast I was in, ordered, ate, and out. Not that I was in a hurry, they were just very efficient. Prices have of course gone up, but pretty in line with anywhere else in town to my eye. I have never been for dinner, only lunch, and that really seems to be where this place shines. I would certainly go back, seems like a great place to enjoy lunch and conversation with a friend. I also love that they leave water out for passing dogs, and there is even a heated bowl so it doesnt freeze in the winter! read more

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Finally got the chance to try West End Cafe and we will absolutely be back! On the outside it looks like a little breakfast cafe but their dinner and lunch is what we wanted to try! We decided to sit at the bar since there was a pretty long wait (seems to be common, people love this place) and we kicked things off with a dirty martini. Our bartender was so kind and starting making jokes almost immediately, and he made a mean dirty martini! For our meals we got a chicken house salad, the trout special, and bread service. Their bread was delicious - I would highly recommend ordering that (it's included you just have to ask for it). The entrees all come with either a house or Caesar salad which I appreciated. Overall the salads were pretty standard but the trout was delicious! It was well cooked, and served with some sautéed veggies! Overall, I'll be back but the portions were quite small compared to the price. Our bill was pretty expensive for getting trout and a salad. read more

West End Cafe - Chicken salad - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

Been eating here for 10+ years and I'm a picky eater! For lunch this seems to be a downtown favorite. They're consistently good! Soups, salads and sandwiches of all kinds. All delicious and any way you like them. One of my favs is the grilled Rueben (with extra kraut). It is SO GOOD! Yes, they have desert too! The staff here is fantastic and my favorite kind -friendly and professional! Just when you think this is going to be your lunch spot, let's not forget ...there's dinner.This menu holds up very nicely against some of the other "pricey" places I've had occasion to visit and I'm not talking just sandwiches now. The choices always feel like a menu made especially for me. Grilled chops, fish, chicken and beef. I recently had a Waygu ravioli dish to die for! I just have to say that overall for eating out, West End Cafe is my "go-to" for both, lunch or dinner. It's not pretentious nor an old grill. Parking can sometimes be difficult, but well worth another turn around the block for an empty space! read more

We were visiting my son, and wanted to eat local. Pleasant ambiance, great service and our reuben sandwiches were awesome. Love that side of town. Nice little park across the road to take in the Fall colors. Great experience! read more

Updating my review. West End Cafe is a great local establishment for lunch and dinner. Highly recommend the lamb gyro and sweet potato fries. Service is also top notch. Menu selection is very diverse and there should be something there for everyone in your party. Full bar for us alcoholics. Pro tip - Go early to avoid the lunch or dinner rush. If not, you have put your name on the list and could have several minutes to wait. Note, you can sit at the bar if you want, assuming space is there. read more

Came here for dinner with coworker and his family. There was about a 15-20min wait (6pm, Friday) so not too long for prime time. It feels a little crowded inside but fortunately not too cramped. Our server was friendly, helpful with suggestions/recommendations, and check up on us frequently. I had a couple glasses of prosecco and the hot pastrami reuben. We enjoyed our dishes and had a pleasant meal here. read more

West End Cafe - group photo, good food - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

Some of the best sandwiches I've had in the area. I already want to go back and try the Italian. It's very cafe style but they have a full bar! The bar area is full service and you can seat yourself so that's always my go to when there is a wait and I don't have a big group. Came in for lunch and got a side salad and the pastrami Reuben and it was delicious. I got the slaw and it was *fine* but the dessert was homemade and perfection. My mom got the clam chowder, hot pastrami, macaroni salad and shared the dessert with me. The sides seemed to be lacking flavor but everything else was delicious. read more

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A fine visit with an old friend! We've been going to West End Cafe for over 30 years. Tonight is one of the best ever. What used to be a small breakfast and lunch joint has become a great place for a fine dinner! We started with a house salad. Great assortment of fresh greens, cucumber, onion, peppers, and croutons. House made dressings were excellent. For entrees we had a filet (medium), rainbow trout. The steak was cooked perfectly. Green beans on the side. Trout was sautéed perfectly. Sauce was a bit much - should have ordered on the side. Didn't need it. Brussels Almandine were a nice side. Good flavor and cooked just right to have soft leaves and just a touch of crunch. For dessert, we split Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie with ice cream and caramel sauce. The worst ice cream i ever had was great. This was really good. Pie was full of crunchy nuts. Not too sweet. A nice finish to a great meal. Our server, Olivia, was attentive and friendly without being bothersome. Wait tine at 7:00p.m. was only 20 minutes. Wait space was comfortable and relaxing (overlooking a Koy pond. We highly recommend West End Cafe. read more

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West End Cafe is a Winston Salem staple. It's very casual and has more of a diner vibe but it has a bar too. Ambiance is relaxed and the dining room is open so it can be a little noisy. The service is always friendly, attentive and knowledgeable, they happily customize orders and make you feel welcome. Food is reasonably priced and they have their regular soup, salad, and sandwich menu along with some fun daily dinner specials that are more adventurous. read more

West End Cafe - Pretzel crusted salmon on the house special salad - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

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I just love this place and make a point of having a meal any time I am in town. The staff is exceptional and always warm and welcoming. It feels like coming home as the interior is cozy and comforting. Always a must, and the food never disappoints. read more

Melissa was our waitress and she was excellent! our food was delicious and came out quickly! Very nice atmosphere. Will definitely come back! read more

This has become one of our top 3 favorite local places! Atmosphere: casual/slightly dressy. Very local feel, loads of seating, interesting decor, and friendly environment. Parking: It can be a little tricky during peak times but, we found street parking half a block away on a busy Friday night. Not bad Customer service: We have had great service each time so far. We even tried it on one of their busiest nights and they managed the crowd very well yet did not seem rushed or uncomfortable. They know what they are doing here. Food: OMG! I'm not even sure what my favorite thing is here. I know each item and their way of doing it is going to be delicious so, I will just say come here with someone so you can maybe share and try a couple of things. I must say this is by far the best reuben I have tried locally. It is toasted to perfection with a decent amount of butter on the bread, the meat is a nice amount and tender, I do recommend having the in-house sauce they make. It really sets the whole thing off! The prices are surprising for the quality and amount of food they serve. Overall, this is any foodies kind of place. We look forward to our next time here. read more

West End Cafe - Lemon drop martini - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

My first experience with West End Cafe was a to-go order. The other night. I ordered the cheeseburger and fries. The order was completed in a very timely manner and was ready as soon as I walked in the door to pick it up. The hostess was super friendly and knew exactly who I was so it must have been the only to go order at the time. I didn't say to me but the decor looked very friendly, and welcoming. I love the dog water station outside for people who were passing by with their dogs. My next experience here will definitely be a sit down meal and that will be happening soon. read more

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Delicious, great portions, a lot of healthy options. There is something there for everyone. They offer gf options as well. Prices were reasonable, $45 dollars for 3 meals and two soups. read more

West End Cafe - Outside of restaurant - New American Near Me - Winston Salem, North Carolina

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Great lunch or dinner spot for a semi casual meal! Numerous sandwich options from burgers, chicken, pastrami and so forth - with both hot and cold options. Sandwiches range between $10-15. Salads, soups, a handful of small plates, and about 8-10 dinner entrees are also on the menu. Service was great. My husband enjoyed his hamburger. It initially came out missing his toppings and the waitress promptly had it fixed. I enjoyed the chicken cordon blue with sweet potato fries. It was good too. My only complaint was the waiting area was cramped due to rainy weather outside. This was no big deal. However, if distractions are something you try to avoid, this place may not be for you. It was loud inside, people will hover beside the tables, as the waiting room was full. With the loudness of the room and the excess amount of people standing around it was definitely hard to hear my conversation and hard to focus on enjoying our time. Otherwise, definitely deserves the 4 stars! read more