15 Best Bars in Winston-Salem, NC

Do you want to enjoy an unforgettable nightlife experience you can share with friends and family in Winston-Salem? Visiting the best bars in Winston-Salem is a nice start.

Winston-Salem is a city and the county seat of Forsyth County, North Carolina, in the United States of America. According to the 2020 census, the population was 249,545, making it the fourth-largest metropolitan area in North Carolina.

The city has many pleasurable sights to explore, such as the National Art Galleries, Salem Lake, Fairgrounds, and Parks. Winston-Salem features art, entertainment, music, movies, food, and, most importantly, bars serving great drinks.

It is much better to plan your trip itinerary to include at least a few visits to each of the top bars strategically located in the city. These bars will provide you with nightlife pleasure, many fun activities, and an amazing opportunity to mingle with like minds.

Want a fun time in Winston-Salem? Here are the cool bars in Winston-Salem, NC.

Best Bars in Winston-Salem, NC

1. Vintage Sofa Bar

Vintage Sofa Bar

Vintage Sofa Bar is a romantic place like no other in Winston-Salem. The city would need a rib if this amazing bar was available to serve as the platform for matchmaking.

There is no differentiating factor inside this bar; all who visit, either locals or out-of-town vacationers, are considered and treated as friends and family.

The service is an A+ service. The customers are accompanied to their seats, and their orders are attended to promptly.

There is an outdoor seating area with several games, a shuffleboard, and a pool table. The bartenders on standby often recommend that customers try their favorite mix.

Vintage Sofa Bar gives every customer unbeatable drink options like Vintage Cobbler Cocktail, French Clover, Manhattan, Sangria, Maybons Cup, Chardonnay, Old Fashioned Beers, Signature Cocktail, etc.

The Vintage Sofa Bar is open from 3:00 pm – 12:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 3:00 pm – 1:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3:00 pm – 12:00 am pm on Sundays.

Address: 1001 Burke St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-905-9008.

2. Burke St Pub

Burke St Pub

Burke St Pub is often referred to as a laid-back watering hole and among the best bars in Winston-Salem that patrons wholeheartedly recommended without much thought.

The garage door opens to the parking lot and doubles either as a ventilation system during hot weather or insulation during the cold. The upstairs deck is very inviting when the weather is moderate.

The patio is roomy and a good place to have a pitcher of beer with friends, watch football, play ping-pong and trivia, and, most importantly, enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.

The bartenders are quick to come up with alternative fruity drinks that are fresh and tasty for patrons who want to relax without fearing a hangover the next day.

An evening is complete without a visit to this amazing bar in Winston, the freedom and entertainment are world-class, and the mixing of drinks challenges the bleeding edge of cocktail innovation.

The team is open to suggesting drinks that range from Das Root, Charcuterie Board, Half Priced Wine Sundays, Baklava, Negroni, and a host of others.

Burke St Pub is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 1110 Burke St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-750-0097.

3. Bar Piña

Bar Piña

Residents of Winston-Salem can testify they have been going to this amazing bar since it opened. It is a cozy place with a killer rooftop.

The rooftop view of the city and experience is a breathtaking enjoyment that cannot be described in words.

You cannot go wrong with hosting your friends for an evening of music, dance, and drinks in this fantastic bar. It is one of the cool bars to visit and a trailblazer that has won the hearts of locals and returning visitors.

While at this great bar, try out drinks like Local Brews, Spirits, Old Fashioned Manhattan, Cocktails, and many other drinks you and yours will ultimately enjoy.

Bar Piña is open from 6:00 pm – 12:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 6:00 pm – 12:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 6:00 pm – 12:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 770 Liberty View Ct #200, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-355-4664.

4. Gatsby’s Pub

Gatsby's Pub

It gets crowded here on the weekends for a good reason. There are not just good elevated views of the city but also great music choices playing and interesting cocktails that create friendships and bonds.

The karaoke nights are one of the best ways to spend a night at Gatsby’s Pub, which is in one of the fun bars in Winston-Salem. The screen placement is strategic; everyone can join in and sing along as they watch the bartender mix drinks.

The DJ steals the guests’ attention when they get tired of singing along to songs and pumps new energy into their bloodstream by playing songs that bring everyone to the dance floor.

Customers often order drinks for their table, such as like

Salted Rim Margarita, Das Root, Charcuterie Board, Half Priced Wine Sundays, Baklava, Negroni, etc.

Gatsby’s Pub is open from 5:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 6:00 pm – 12:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 1157 Burke St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-997-9008.

5. Second & Green Tavern

Second & Green Tavern

Once you see the Steelers Banner and memorabilia, you will instinctively know it is one of the top bars in Winston-Salem. Football fans are in for a treat in this amazing bar.

Patrons have nothing but respect for the fans and how coordinated and entertaining they can be during a game while at the bar, many free rounds of drinks for everyone when the tides are in their favor.

The clientele is fun, there is a patio, several TVs, bar games, DJ special night, and Live band special nights, and the staff is always excited to serve on each occasion, giving their best to ensure customers are satisfied.

Customers often start their evening at this bar with drinks ranging from Low Country Boil, Liquid Marijuana, and Watermelon to Margaritas.

Second & Green Tavern is open from 12:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 12:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 12:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 207 N Green St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-631-3143.

6. The tap

The tap

This beautiful Jazz bar is a no-nonsense place that means business from the entrance. The checkers are top MMA fighters in Winston-Salem that ensure that the bar is safe and patrons are well-behaved.

The music is upbeat and loud enough that conversation is much easier while dancing with a significant other or a group of friends.

Customers often supercharge their evening at this bar with drinks ranging from Orange, White Russian, Tequila, Old Fashioned, Chokes & Smokes, Vacation Email, Army & Navy, etc.

The tap is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 473 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-773-1544.

7. Tate’s Craft Cocktails

Tate's Craft Cocktails

This impressive cool spot is by far one of the top bars in Winston-Salem. It is considered a lively watering hole with artisan cocktails served in a warm, contemporary environment with food, drinks, live music, and creative games.

The interior is well-designed to attract event planners to host their clients’ birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and so much more. The exterior features a spacious outdoor cooling pad for patrons who want to see the starry skies.

The bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable about their craft and do not allow customers the chance to google drink recipes before creating a great mix of mind-blowing cocktails.

There are drinks like Whiskey Sour with Egg White, Manhattan, Surfer on Acid, Oaxacan Old Fashioned, Martini, Old Forester 1910, Cosmopolitan, Orange Thingy, Mai Tai, and many more at the bar to choose from.

Tate’s Craft Cocktails is open from 5:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 279 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-934-3003.

8. Fair Witness Fancy Drinks

Fair Witness Fancy Drinks

College kids fancy this bar and the new remodel makes it modern and entertaining. The walls have been padded, and a new section has been created to allow patrons to dance with noise-canceling headphones.

A lot of thought goes into every aspect of the bar activities, and it shows because every week, there is something new and eye-catching to entertain customers.

There is enough indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy drinks with a few friends, but it is manageable to get rowdy.

The bartenders can make almost any cocktail you ask for and go the extra mile by experimenting to satisfy curious customers.

The bartenders often recommend that newbies start their evening with drinks like Jalapeno Reposado Old Fashioned, Habanero Infused Tequila Variation of the Last Word, Umeboshi Fizz, Jallab Fizz, Viet Coffee Freeze, etc.

Fair Witness Fancy Drinks is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 290 4th St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-607-4185.

9. Joyner’s Bar

Joyner's Bar

Joyner’s bar is one of the best bars in Winston-Salem. It is nice and cozy. If you like leather, wooden tables, and earth colors, you are in for one amazing ride.

It is important to make you aware that it is pricier than other bars in town, and for a good reason, all the drinks are handmade from scratch, and the bartenders make it known that all fruits used are fresh and juicy.

There is little competition when it comes to Joyner’s Bar when it comes to class, amazing offerings, and premium customer service.

The bar offers customers an array of drinks that range from beers like Pineapple Upside Down Martini, Charcuterie, Dried FruitMezcal Old Fashioned, Emerald, Coco Piña, Autumn Syrups, Rum Float, Aperol Spritz, Lavender Fantasy, Matcha Fizz, and so much more.

Joyner’s bar is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 854 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-955-1699.

10. Silver Moon Saloon

Silver Moon Saloon

Silver Moon Saloon is one of the cool bars this area that has continued to grow a fierce reputation for its funky bar space with a signature neon sign, wall-hung license plates, and a moon art above the bartender’s head.

If you are looking for a place to shake off the weariness of a long day after work or to culminate the adventurous experience of a challenging day, you have to check out Silver Moon Saloon.

The bar has an exquisitely designed interior featuring a colorful bar section and well-arranged seating that makes good use of the small pace. The entire staff is kind, consistent, and courteous.

You can order local favorites like Beer, Bloody Mary, Margarita, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Weekend Layover, Tiramisu, Betty Blanco, Paper Plane, etc.

Silver Moon Saloon is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 632 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-631-0000.

11. Bar Nola

Bar Nola

Have you ever wondered if a bar could have everything you could ever think you would want to have a great handout? Wonder no more.

Bar Nola is one of the cool bars in Winston-Salem that has got you covered. There is almost nothing à bar requires that is not available in this amazing hangout spot. To top it off, it is also a pet-friendly place; what else could you ask for?

It doesn’t matter if it is your first time there or you are a returning customer; you will feel like a regular. The staff is amazing at making everyone feel at home and treating them unreservedly.

The bar also has drinks like Swamp Water, Aperol Spritz, Banquet Cool, Wilson’s Cherry, T.G Dragon Fandango Aviation No. 2, and many others.

Bar Nola is open from 4:00 pm – 1:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 1:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 12:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 1151 Canal Dr., Suite 205, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-999-8111.

12. Thirsty Pallet

Thirsty Pallet

If you want a balanced diet of food, drinks, and entertainment, your top choice is the Thirsty Pallet which will satisfy all your desires.

This romantic bar is one of the fun bars in Winston-Salem that features an exciting event every other day. Mondays welcome new comes with a complimentary beer or gin. There is karaoke on Tuesdays for all who want to outshine friends.

There is an open mic night on Wednesdays for young talents to show off their potential and a music bingo activity on Thursday. The rest of the weekend is squared off for the live band and none stop dancing.

You can order from the bartender drinks like Pineapple Margarita, Cider, Vodka Martini, Big Grove Easy Eddie IPA, Editor’s Note, Daydream, The Pistachio, Weekend Layover, Tiramisu, and many more.

Thirsty Pallet is open from 2:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 12:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 249 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: (716) 308-9896.

13. The Quiet Pint Tavern

The Quiet Pint Tavern

The Quiet Pint Tavern is a down-to-earth hangout that is interestingly quiet and lively, with a patio offering elevated tables and stools and occasional live music.

The Quiet Pint Tavern is one of the Winston-Salem bars for some wind-down time and grub after work. It is a place to sit for fresh ideas when the routine becomes stale.

The Quiet Pint Tavern bar has a lot to offer. You will concur if you explore its multiple-paged drinks menu with offerings like Vodka Martini, Big Grove Easy Eddie IPA, Editor’s Note, Daydream, The Pistachio, Weekend Layover, Tiramisu, etc.

The Quiet Pint Tavern is open from 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 411:00 am – 10:00 pm am on Sundays.

Address: 1420 W 1st St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-893-6881.

14. Recreation Billiards

Recreation Billiards

Social standing is one of the factors that is inconsequential when you enter the Recreation Billiards. Everyone is guaranteed a good time in this socially mixed setting.

The socialization starts with the bartender, who relates with everyone like they are known buddies; if she doesn’t know your name, it wouldn’t take long, and you will be glad you told her.

The basement of this happening bar is one of the favorite places for adventurous patrons to bounce back and forth off the rotary bull.

The relatively quiet environment is perfect for anyone who can easily get overwhelmed. You will be treated kindly and amazed by the knowledge of drinks available such as Daydream, The Pistachio, Weekend Layover, Tiramisu, Betty Blanco, Paper Plane, Aviation No. 2, and many others.

Recreation Billiards is open from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 2:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 412 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-725-6006.

15. Dogwood Hops and Crops

Dogwood Hops and Crops

How can you visit or live in Winston-Salem and not patronize Dogwood Hops And Crops?

With a plethora of fantastic canned and bottled beers and wines, and local brews you can buy or drink, this is undoubtedly one of the top bars in the city.

Dogwood Hops and Crops bar is the best-kept secret in Winston-Salem. The atmosphere is gyrating with lovely music, and the bartenders are magicians creating an awesome mix of drinks every time.

It would be best if you asked the bartender for a rare mix or chose any of the many drinks on the menu to make your evening even more wholesome. For example, you will find Ecliptic Hypernova Triple IPA, Uuuuh Beer, Craft Beers, IPA Beers, Blackberry Old-fashioned, Beer Taps, Gin and Tonic Water, Juice, and many more.

Dogwood Hops And Crops is open from 12:00 pm – 12:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 1:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 4:00 pm – 12:00 am on Sundays.

Address: 517 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States. Phone: +1 336-955-1463.

Also, check out our guide on the best bars in Greenville , best bars in Berkeley, and the best bars in Jersey City for a fun time.

Have Fun!

These bars are considered part of the city’s great wonders. Each one is uniquely situated to quench your taste in style.

It doesn’t matter if you visit one or two or all of them, the value you will get is balanced across the board, and your love for Winston-Salem will only rise to the brim and overflow.