Page Three

More than just a step back in time, Old Salem is a study of a utopian community where each individual would "give according to his ability, take according to his needs." We are able to see how slavery and industrialism affected even this sheltered group, and how its problems were not unlike the problems we encounter in today's world.

We snacked on wonderful Moravian cookies from the Winkler Bakery on Main Street before heading to the Old Salem Tavern Restaurant for lunch. Their signature chicken pot pie, chock full of chicken, was so good we later bought a frozen one to take home with us. The bratwurst platter, reminiscent of the German origins of the Moravians, was another excellent choice. If you promise you won't tell anyone, we'll admit we had dinner there the night before, too; the pork schnitzel with red cabbage and spaetzle was uniquely spiced and flavorful, served in a hefty, fall-off-the-plate portion. Their fresh-baked mini pumpkin muffins are delicious; you may purchase these to take home, too. They're even better than Aunt Ethel's.

Well-sated and exhausted, we checked in to the Augustus T. Zevely Inn Bed and Breakfast, the only lodging in Old Salem on the National Historic Register. Its windows lit by traditional Moravian candles, the Zevely House has provided lodging to weary travelers for over 200 years. Innkeepers Dave and Larry continue the tradition, adding their own special touches of evening wine and cheese, complimentary bottled water in guest rooms, and fabulous breakfasts which wake guests in the morning as their aromas waft up the old stairway. (I think they have to do this so guests will crawl out from under the cozy quilts which cover the king or queen size beds in their 13 charming guest rooms.) It's a quiet, peaceful and relaxing place. Walk on tiptoes after 10p.m.

Zevely House Inn Bedroom

Just north of Old Salem, back in the 21st century, are two excellent alternative lodging choices for those who want a little more action: the Marriott and Embassy Suites hotels.

Fresh from a recent 28 million dollar renovation, the Marriott houses 315 rooms and suites, and affords such comforts as 300 thread-count sheets, brand new Serta mattresses, and duvet covers which are cleaned every time a guest checks out. Local art and furnishings compliment its luxurious accommodations, and special Marriott weekend rates will make this an attractive choice for guests.

The new Embassy Suites, with its traditional open courtyard and green vined balconies, offers 147 guest suites, each with separate living and sleeping rooms, two TV's, refrigerator and microwave oven. With cooked-to-order breakfasts and nightly cocktail hours, the Embassy Suites will be an excellent hotel for families, as living room sofas open to provide additional sleeping accommodations. (Thank goodness---Aunt Ethel snores!)

For dining close to either of these hotels, try the new wine bar and café, 6th and Vine. Located in the trendy Arts District, 6th and Vine was bubbling with an after-work cocktail crowd on the week night we visited. Its minimalist décor did nothing to detract from its menu offerings (presented on a painted wine bottle.) A tender filet of beef, prepared exactly as ordered, was accompanied by fresh green beans and golden oven-browned potato chunks. Smoked pork chops with cherry sauce were tasty and substantial. For dessert, the warm banana bread pudding was enough for at least two to share, and worth saving room for.

Just behind the building is an outdoor courtyard wine bar. Sheltered from the street by buildings, this area is a lively gathering place during the warm season.

Hmmm….fun and interesting attractions, great food, wine and accommodations, just one tank of gas…next year we're going to suggest Aunt Ethel vacation in some exotic location. As for us? We're going back to Winston-Salem.

Augustus T. Zevely Inn Bed and Breakfast
803 So. Main Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-800-928-9299
Winston-Salem Inn

Embassy Suites
460 N. Cherry Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-800-EMBASSY

Fabian's
1100 Reynolda Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-336-723-7700
Dinner Tuesday through Saturday, one seating 7:30p.m.

Marriott Hotel
425 N. Cherry Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-800-228-9290

Old Salem Tavern Restaurant
736 Main Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-336-748-8585
Lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday Lunch Sunday March through December

Old Salem Visitor Center
Old Salem Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-888-653-7253

Reynolda House Museum of American Art
2250 Reynolda Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27106
1-888-663-1149
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30a.m. to 4:30p.m.; Sunday, 1:30p.m. to 4:30p.m. Closed Monday, Thanksgiving, Christmas And New Year's Day. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and AAA members; children and students are free.

6th and Vine
209 West 6th Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-336-725-5577

Vineyards Restaurant
Reynolda Village
Winston-Salem, NC 27106
1-336-748-0269

Winston-Salem Visitor Center
200 Brookstown Avenue
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
1-336-728-4200

Page One | Page Two