West Salem Public House (WSPH) delivers the traditional neighborhood experience as a warm meeting spot, bringing the Winston-Salem community together over delicious beverages.
There’s something about West Salem Public House that feels oddly familiar and nostalgic, even if it’s your first visit. The unassuming old cinderblock building has been made over but remains simple, clean, and unpretentious. A walkable, affordable place for residents of Winston-Salem’s historic downtown and West Salem neighborhoods, the pub offers a welcoming place to explore new drinks and friendships.
If you’re ever overwhelmed or stressed with life, visit West Salem Public House. If it’s morning, it’s coffee beverage time. Try the recommended special. Whatever it is, they make it perfect. If it’s afternoon? It’s beer or wine time. Many beer and wine options include wine by the bottle ($6 corkage fee), eight beer taps, and bottled and canned beverages. West Salem Public House is usually only a food place if you’re in the mood for a pastry or if there’s a food truck.
For seating, you’ll find three long shareable tables, a couple of lounge areas, and some bar stools facing out the front window. If you’d rather enjoy your beverage outdoors, there’s a back patio with heaters.
West Salem Public House has no big-screen TVs — That’s not the vibe of this neighborhood pub. Instead, it’s a place to read a book, do a crossword, write, or meet a new friend in the area. In the evenings, you might find live music entertainment. Taylor Dodson recently recorded a live album at West Salem Public House (now that’s pretty cool).
I love it when WSPH hosts weekend markets, which prompted my first visit. The business opens its backyard for markets so local makers and crafters can set up booths and sell their uniquely local products. They attract some of the area’s best vendors and a friendly crowd. Their next Maker’s Market is on Saturday, March 9th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate their anniversary.
West Salem Public House encompasses much of Winston-Salem’s local character — If you love the city, you’ll like WSPH. For more information on Winston-Salem’s West Salem neighborhood, check out the Neighborhood Guide to West Salem.
