North Carolina Restaurant Named Most Charming And Its Location Was Picked Out By Helicopter
As a self-proclaimed “foodie,” I scout all sorts of unusual out of the way spots to try. So, when I saw this story about Ryan’s Restaurant in Winston-Salem I was intrigued. Microsoft Start (MSN) recently named the North Carolina restaurant as the “most charming” in the state. And, it comes with an equally charming atmosphere and story.
According to the News & Observer, Ryan’s Restaurant is a seafood and steakhouse that will “steal your heart.” And, the general manager offers up that location plays a big role in the charm. Like realtors always say, “location, location, location.” Kelly Seaver points out that the original owner found the cozy creekside spot by helicopter.
In fact, the charm of the restaurant leads diners to think it may have once been a home. Added touches like paneling and bricks that she says came from the demolished Robert E. Lee hotel just solidify the charm factor. And, here’s something that’s rare these days. Ryan’s Restaurant is locally owned and has the same management it had in 1981. Plus, another charming facet is that Ryan’s Restaurant has a dress code. They require collared shirts for men and dresses or nice pants for women. So, don’t pop in wearing your shorts and tees.
And, in browsing the pictures I noticed Ryan’s Restaurant decorates for Christmas. Also, there’s different seating areas including ones next to a cozy fireplace. Plus, I spotted a quaint little bridge that leads diners across the creek to their destination. That’s definitely appealing. It’s no surprise after looking at Ryan’s that it earns the “most charming” title. The vibe is almost reminding me of The Lost Kitchen in Maine where I desperately want to visit!
So, make plans to check out this little hidden spot in Winston-Salem that makes MSN’s “most charming” spot in North Carolina. For more, read the full story. And, see MSN’s list of charming restaurants in every state.
Three North Carolina Patios Included On Open Table's Best Outdoor Dining List
Summer is here, and is there anything better than enjoying a delicious meal, a refreshing cocktail or glass of wine, and the warm summer air and a nice breeze? The answer is no. There is not. If you disagree, you can stop reading this isn’t the information for you. Now that I have reached my target audience, I’ll elaborate. The dining experts at OpenTable have compiled a list of the best outdoor dining in the country. And with 50 states, countless cities, and limitless restaurants there is a lot of stiff competition. But the good news is that three different North Carolina restaurants made the list of best outdoor dining.
Open Table Best Outdoor Dining
According to OpenTable this list “spans restaurants coast-to-coast and is determined by verified diner reviews.” And I can verify it’s literally coast to coast because I saw one restaurant in Hawaii. And while I’ve never been to Hawaii, I’m pretty sure any outdoor dining there is superior. You’d probably assume the North Carolina restaurants included on this outdoor dining list are all at the coast. Right? Wrong. One is, and it’s actually one some family members told me about recently. The other two are, unexpectedly, in Greensboro. I’ve seen several Triad restaurants on these sorts of lists lately. I don’t typically give the area much credit (I’ve lived in Charlotte and Raleigh) but may have to go explore one weekend.
Not only was North Carolina included on the list. The Palmetto State of course was too. Two South Carolina restaurants were recognized for their outdoor dining. One again on the beach, and the other in a trendy, growing city. Time to plan some road trips because there is nothing more I want this summer than some incredible food, an Aperol spritz, and a patio. Preferably with a water view. Keep reading to learn all about the North and South Carolina restaurants included on Open Table’s list of the best outdoor dining. Want to see the full list? Get all the info here.
Debbie Nance is the afternoon co-host along with her husband on "The Charlie and Debbie Show" at WSOC, Country 1037 in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been with the station for 18 years. Debbie is a CMA Award winner for Radio Personality of the Year. And, she has worked in radio for 40 years. Before her current afternoon position, Debbie spent more than a decade as co-host on morning shows in several markets across the Southeast. As a content creator for Country 1037, Debbie writes articles about food, new restaurants in the Carolinas and travel experiences.
