Working remote early on in their relationship, this is where Stephen nudged Austin and pointed to his computer screen, saying "this is the guy I can't stand." He was on a Zoom call, and apparently not on mute. Everyone on the call heard.
Bobby Boy Bakeshop has been honored as a semi-finalist for the prestigious James Beard Award, standing out as one of just twenty bakeries across the country competing for the title 'Outstanding Bakery.'
Krankies Coffee is a cornerstone of Winston-Salem, delivering exceptional coffee in a space that’s industrial, straightforward, and full of character. It’s a place where great coffee speaks for itself. The food also slaps.
Conveniently located bakery and coffee shop within walking distance of the Marriott, Kimpton, and other downtown accommodations.
It's a great spot to cool off with some of the best beers in Winston. Walking distance to the downtown hotels.
Incendiary Brewing Company is in the original coal pit of the historic R.J. Reynolds Tobacco power plant (very cool). Next door, there’s great pizza, and the outdoor area is perfect for big groups.
The favorite of Stephen's mom – and everyone in the Conger-Folwell families. Nestled deep in a wooded setting, a classic steakhouse with family style sides and some of the best food in town. Just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem. Reservations required.
Conveniently located on the bottom floor of the former Krispy Kreme Headquarters, this is a classic spot for "upscale American and rustic European-inspired dishes" (lol). One of the original restaurants of famed chef Jim Noble, Rooster's has fantastic fare and a great atmosphere. This is where Austin and Stephen are their most patriotic. The site of their "State of the Union" dinner, this is where they meet on the first day of Christmas break to discuss how to juggle two sets of family events. They've also led the back room in a rousing rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
In our 30 years of being from Winston, somehow we never overlapped at the original Village Tavern. The Folwell's used to ride bikes there on Sundays after church, and the Congers are basically VIPs. Nestled in historic Reynolda Village, sitting on the patio or inside the former Dairyman's Cottage on the grounds of R.J. Reynolds' estate is a great introduction to Winston.
Conveniently located in the neighborhood, Diamondback is a fantastic place to unwind or grab a drink before the next event. This is where Stephen sipped on a mocktail as he nervously asked Mr. Conger for Austin's hand in marriage.
Fantastic cuisine in a historic downtown home -- get the french onion soup and the fried chicken!
Two eggs over medium, sausage patty, shredded hashbrowns extra crispy, wheat toast. And we'll start with a waffle for the table.
Gorgeous French-inspired cuisine in the lobby of the original R.J. Reynolds Headquarters, now the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel. If it looks familiar, the building was the scale model for the Empire State Building, and the latter sends a card down to the now-Kimpton building every year on Father's Day. When it was finished in 1929, it stood as the tallest building in the Southeast.
Great sofas, a great atmosphere, and a great Aperol Spritz. We shared our first kiss after a couple of these bad boys. No promises for you though – cheers!
A great place to meet friends or watch a game, Little Richards is a spinoff of the classic BBQ restaurant of the same name. However this iteration has TVs, a full bar, and accepts more than cash or local checks.
Apologies for not linking them above -- they don't have a website, which is incredibly fitting. A longtime Winston haunt with pool tables and darts, this is a true bar's bar.
Owned by a fellow Ole Miss alum, The Hive offers one of the best selections of clothing and accessories in Winston. Hotty Toddy!
Nestled in the heart of Buena Vista, Rebecca's is the go-to spot for the best clothes and great vibes. Forget something for the wedding? No worries — Rebecca's has you covered. Fun fact: George is practically a household name here, thanks to his knack for picking out gifts for the Conger women… and a few ex-flames along the way.
Owned by the fabulous Kim Macon herself, this spot features the most unique collection of beautiful gifts.
Reynolda House Museum of Art has shaped both our childhoods and the life we’re building together. From summers at Reynolda camp to years at Summit School nearby, it has been a place of joy, growth, and inspiration. Its serene grounds brought peace during uncertain times like the pandemic in 2020 and remain meaningful to us. The Reynolds family left a legacy of innovation and philanthropy in Winston-Salem, reflected in the Reynolda Estate. Today, Reynolda House honors that history, showcasing American art and culture in its historic home and gardens. One of our favorite exhibits, Smith & Libby: Two Rings, Seven Months, One Bullet, shares the story of Z. Smith Reynolds and Broadway star Libby Holman. Our connection deepens through Mrs. Conger’s 12 years on Reynolda’s board. Her leadership in events like the 100th Anniversary Gala has been vital. In April 2024, she was honored for her service, reflecting Reynolda’s lasting impact on our family and story.
Spend all day exploring the shops and sites of Reynolda Village! The ladies can check out the new assortment at Monkee's while the guys scramble to Norman Stockton to pick up the stud set or cummerbund they left at home.
Founded in 1766, this living history museum is the site of the original Moravian settlement of Salem, on the Wachovia land tract. It's a great place to walk around on a Saturday to explore the museums, grab a bite, or shop for some famous Moravian Sugar Cakes and cookies. Fun fact: Stephen's mom is a docent there. If you get cut off on I-40 coming into town by a 260-year-old woman donning a bonnet, that's probably her.
Stephen's favorite monadnock, this metamorphic quartzite peak rises 2400 feet seemingly out of nowhere from the peneplain (Stephen has been working his way through a stack of National Geographics). You may be able to see it from your hotel room on a clear day -- it's a 30 minute drive from downtown to the summit.
A little past Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock is a favorite for hiking and swimming. Hike to great waterfalls or the fire tower lookout, or get some sun on the sandy beach before swimming out to the diving board platform in Hanging Rock Lake. This is a Conger & Folwell favorite --- the site of Mr. Folwell's yearly polar plunge on New Year's Day. It's about 45 minutes from downtown Winston to the lake and visitor's center.