The Downtown Grille — Restaurant in Winston-Salem

I would give five stars, but there is one glaring hole in the layout of the restaurant. We sat at table number 23 (I assume as that was the number on leftovers package) which I took to be next to the emergency exit door. I was incorrect. The door was used twice that evening, both times allowing a generous dose of a cold breeze to wash across the table and us. Very, very poor design. I'd even go so far as to say offensive to the patrons. Given the $230 spent for two people with entrees, one bottle of wine and desserts (including tip) this is insufferable. If you do go make it a point to not sit at table 23. It's almost as bad as being seated next to the kitchen's doors. Management, please fix this issue. Side notes: Given the expense, it was depressing to see bluejeans and sneakers worn by some of the clientele, and these folks were not young. You'd think office casual would be the expected minimum. Also, there was a child present. Thankfully well behaved, but not the proper venue for a "family" outing as I was raised. This is not the fault of the establishment, though perhaps in the future a "child free" environment could be established. How about a dress code? Sigh. C'est la vie. I love entering the lobby through revolving doors to access the restaurant. That experience has been absent from my life for a number of years. Nice touch. Service and food were top shelf. Atmosphere was very disappointing (exit door). The acoustics were such that I could actually hear my wife speaking, but not the details of the other patrons' conversations. Excellent, and greatly appreciated. These issues are part of the growing pains of any new establishment. It's probably too much to ask, but how about a School of the Arts student playing piano in the lobby? It would add quite a bit of distinction that would hopefully be appreciated. I wish much success and we will be visiting again as every new venture such as this I feel requires a second visit. I am also sharing my thoughts with my employer for an alternative to the few classy dining choices in Winston. There is another that is still my favorite that perhaps you will equal one day regarding the atmosphere. My very best wishes to you all as Downtown Grille is a welcome addition to downtown W-S, and the town as a whole. Excellent beginning and I believe the potential to...

Fabulous Anniversay 🥂 dinner at the The Downtown Grille of WSNC. Spectacular service and well executed menu, served as follows: •Masonboro NC oysters, delicious, did not need mignonette in my opinion! Great natural salinity. •Split a Caesar salad, topped with anchovy and Parmesan crisps (no photo sorry). •The Octopus…. Tender, juicy, this was made with respect and dedication, set was amazing, generous portion of octopus, I would say about 4oz. • The Tuna, silky, bursting with flavor and spicy! • The Shrimp, it was giving old world Italian, lots of flavor completed with fresh basil and tear drop peppers, shrimp was cooked perfectly, not over done. • The crab dip, huge pieces of lump crab with soft baguette. •Bread service: featuring bread by Bobby Boy Bakeshop complimented with a sorghum/pumpkin spice/orange zest butter. •Ribeye, steak butter, mash w/ bordelaise, & Mac and cheese(Mac needs improvement). •Capped the evening with delicious espresso martinis(w/cream). Andrew is an excellent bartender and server. I am just so pleased with this gem that was much needed in DTWS, with a great collection of some of the best servers of Winston-Salem and also Miss T the hostess is so lovely and sweet, thank you for a wonderful 3 year anniversary Downtown Grille! My new favorite restaurant, we will be back very soon. Hats off to the chef/cooks...

I recently visited The Downtown Grille for the first time, choosing it based on its stellar reputation—and it more than lived up to expectations. From the moment we walked in, the experience was exceptional.

The service was outstanding, thanks to our server, Alex, who was knowledgeable and attentive, offering great recommendations that enhanced our meal. We started with two sides: the burrata and the octopus. Both were excellent, but the octopus stood out for being incredibly tender and flavorful.

For entrées, my clients shared the 16oz ribeye, which was perfectly cooked, while I opted for the chicken marsala. Both dishes were beautifully prepared and full of rich, balanced flavors. Two of us eat gluten-free, and the restaurant easily accommodated our dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Adding to the experience, General Manager Jon and Executive Sous Chef Giovanni took the time to visit our table, chatting with us about the menu and ensuring everything was perfect. Their passion for hospitality and attention to detail truly set this restaurant apart.

My goal was to impress my clients, and The Downtown Grille delivered on every level. In the process, I also discovered a new favorite spot. I’ll definitely be returning for business or to enjoy another outstanding meal. Highly...