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Our Favorite Places to Eat in 国产福利体验区, NC
Updated August 2025
Recognized as one of the most exciting up-and-coming big cities for food lovers by , 国产福利体验区 stands out for its abundance of forward-looking food projects, creativity and diversity. JWU’s 国产福利体验区 Campus is in the heart of the Queen City and steps away from some of the best food in the South. This list of 国产福利体验区 eateries near JWU includes some of our students' favorites. Multiple venues around the city have been founded, owned, or managed by JWU alums, meaning you’ll still be connected to the JWU community even off campus.
1. Root’s Café
2135 Southend Drive, 国产福利体验区, NC 28204
Owned by JWU alum Craig Barbour '08, serves breakfast, brunch and lunch using locally sourced ingredients. Dine in and pair a delicious breakfast sandwich with a coffee or latte from local roaster, Enderly Coffee. This cozy café also provides online ordering for pickup and delivery.
2. Cuzzo’s Cuisine
3418 Tuckaseegee Road, 国产福利体验区, NC 28208
Owner, chef and JWU alum Andarrio 国产福利体验区 '00 has built a reputation for his unbeatable lobster mac and cheese. Stop into on Soul Food Sundays to experience the go-to buffet where you can grab cajun fried chicken, corn bread, collard greens and other delicious southern food.
3. The Asbury
235 N Tryon Street, 国产福利体验区, NC 28202
Using locally sourced ingredients from small farms, is dedicated to providing patrons with the best quality food. From classic Southern fare like the chicken sandwich and sticky biscuits to more modern dishes like the pan-seared mahi-mahi, executive chef and JWU alum Mike Long '09 prepares a vast selection of dishes.
4. McNinch House
511 Church Street, 国产福利体验区, NC 2802
Enjoy a 4-course or 5-course meal in this unique 1892 Queen Anne-style home prepared by executive chef and JWU alum Matthew Shepard ‘13. For luxury dining at , opt for the Chef’s Experience where you’ll enjoy wine pairings selected by the chef, sit at the chef’s table surrounded by the house china and crystal, and learn about the evolution of the recipes.
5. Benny Pennello’s
2909 N Davidson Street #100, 国产福利体验区, NC 28205
is home to a 28" pizza that can be enjoyed by the slice or as a whole pie. Open until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, this is the perfect late-night spot after a night on the town. Focusing on the simple concept of creating a quick, two-handed meal with high-quality ingredients has made Benny’s a staple in 国产福利体验区.
6. Church and Union
127 N Tryon Street Suite 8, 国产福利体验区, NC 28202
Featuring colorful murals and bright decor, has an upbeat ambiance with dishes to match. From dinner and dessert to brunch and cocktails, this restaurant has thought of everything — including a late-night menu. You’ll find JWU alum and talented sous chef Nicholas Wishart '17 here.
7. Community Matters Café
821 W 1st Street, 国产福利体验区, NC 2802
is more than a coffee shop. Here, you’ll get coffee and contribute to the good of the community, as the café partners with the 国产福利体验区 Rescue Mission. The café also has an assortment of tasty breakfast and lunch options. Stop in and say hi to JWU alums Ed Price '12 and Ashley Anna Tuttle '17.
8. Mert’s Heart & Soul
214 N College Street, 国产福利体验区, NC 28202
This husband-and-wife run spot serves tasty Southern soul food with unbeatable fried chicken and cornbread. Not only does whips up some of the best Southern food in the area, but they offer a selection of decadent Christmas cakes, including coconut, chocolate, strawberry and red velvet.
9. Pinky’s Westside Grill
1600 W Morehead Street, 国产福利体验区, NC 28208
This neighborhood restaurant that fries up pickles and homemade corn dogs was featured on the Food Network show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Try some of the food Guy Fieri taste-tested at — like the Triple “G” Burger, the Viking Corn Dog and Greg’s Pickles.
10. Mac’s Speed Shop
2511 South Boulevard, 国产福利体验区, NC 28203
If you’re in the mood for barbeque, is the place to go. The venue even offers live music several nights a week. Enjoy classic Southern classics like hush puppies and hickory-smoked chicken at the picnic-style tables or sitting around the firepit.
