Winston’s Grille, Raleigh, NC

Yesterday was a fun and food filled day of filming with 3 Hungry Guys at Winston’s Grille. I really don’t know where to start because the food and service was just THAT GOOD. When I stepped in, I really didn’t know what to expect. I’m embarrassed to admit that it was my first time into the 30 year old restaurant, but I am proud to say it won’t be my last. I got to learn about what this magical place is and isn’t, and I want to share what I learned with you.

Side note: I hope Winston’s is ready for me to become a regular. I already know what I’m getting on my second visit, and it might include two desserts. Go big or go home, am I right?!

Because I want to focus on what a great success Winston’s is, I’ll start with reiterating that they just celebrated their 30 year mark. And whats truly remarkable about them is that most of their staff has been with them for at least 20 years. They do have a “newbie” that has been there for 10 years now, but I’m sure he is starting to feel like Winston’s is his second home, if not his first. After all, not even 10 second after walking in, you’ll surely feel some southern hospitality come your way. This is one of the main reasons I did not want to leave after we got done shooting. I felt like I had known their crew for years. They really know how to make you feel special, invited and welcomed.

While we were there, we got to meet Scott Waters, the Executive Chef (pictured below) as well as Roger Carter, the Assistant General Manager along with a few others.

But just so you know, Scott is the bees knees. He will make sure your food is nice and hot, the way its suppose to be, but especially your collard greens.

Pictured below are few of my favorite entrees that I got to taste.

First up is their Seared Tuna – Sashimi tuna topped with sesame seeds, seared and served with wasabi, pickled ginger and a teriyaki sauce. #TODIEFOR.
This dish has a kick to it due to the wasabi, but if you’re a sushi lover, this is the dish for you!

Second up is their Shrimp and Grits – Shrimp sautéed with tomatoes, shallots, shitake mushrooms, basil and applewood smoked bacon served over creamy grits

And let me tell you. Winston’s, hands down, takes this dish to a new level. I didn’t even know I liked, or could like, Shrimp and Grits this much. I wasn’t born in the south and never really understood the dish until now.

If you’ve read some of my most recent posts, you’ve learned that I have been wanting to steer away form red met. After trying their “GRILLE” MARINATED RIBEYE

 – House ground chuck, mushroom demi-glace, mashed potatoes, and spinach,

I’m just not sure that that will ever be possible. This dish was exquisite. I’m not sure how they exactly marinate the steak, but I hope they never change this recipe. It just melts in your mouth!

Next up is their Cashew Salmon – Fresh salmon encrusted in chopped cashews and pepper with lemon-lime beurre blanc.

If you’re a seafood lover, this is for you! And if your not, then this might change that. Its hard to put into words just how fresh this tasted. It was so tender and fresh that I felt like I was being transported to a tropical beach far far away. It really does taste like something that has just been caught. I don’t think it will be possible for me to ever forget this dish.  It gets an A++

And finally, is their famous Black and Bleu salad – Blackened chicken, house greens, bleu cheese crumbles, pecans, blueberries, strawberries, carrots

This is one of their staples. It is much loved and I totally understand why. Not only is it too beautiful to eat, but it tastes just like it looks. It is refreshing and light, and not to mention gluten free. Oh and don’t even get me started on the raspberry poppyseed vinaigrette that comes with it. The perfect lunch.

Up next, drinks!

If you like to sit by the bar, relax and knock a couple back with your dinner, look no further because this place has it all. Great entrees, desserts, and drinks that are just as good. I would say their drinks are even better, but their food is just out of this world, and it all comes at a very decent price.

After a couple of takes we got to enjoy a couple of drinks. First I tried their

Blueberri Pomegranate Martini – Stoli bluberi vodka, pama pomegranate, cranberry juice, splash of sweet & sour

Sadly, as you can see, there is no documentation of it. It was that good. Before you know it, it was gone.

Secondly I tried their,

Watermelon Mojito – perfect for the summer. Both of these drinks were very refreshing and on the lighter side. However, if you’re looking for something a bit stronger, they have you covered. Just try one of their amazing margaritas!

And of course I saved the best for last, dessert!
( disclaimer: these pictures don’t do these desserts justice)

1. Chocolate Souffle

Moist, dense cake topped with homemade hot fudge and finished with a scoop of our homemade vanilla ice cream and whipped cream

NO WORDS. #speachless

2. Key Lime Pie

“Our Key Lime pie has withstood the test of time with the same recipe since we opened our doors, traditionally made with key lime juice and a graham cracker crust”

This was soooo good. Perfect if you’re looking for something on the lighter side.

And lastly my ultimate favorite-

3. Bananas Foster

Fresh puff pastry filled with whipped cream and homemade vanilla ice cream, topped with bananas sautéed in a Captain Morgan caramel rum sauce.

If you love bananas, or even slightly like them, you NEED to try this dessert. I didn’t want it to end. Even after trying all that food, I was able to eat this almost entirely by myself because its that damn good.

I really hope that you enjoy this review, but most importantly, I hope you take some time out of your schedule to treat yourself to this heavenly place.

I know I certainly will be back sooner rather than later.