Discover the Hidden Gem of Eastern North Carolina: A Foodie's Guide to Kinston

Located in the heart of Eastern North Carolina, Kinston is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant food scene that will tantalize your taste buds. From traditional Southern cuisine to modern twists on classic dishes, Kinston is a foodie's paradise waiting to be explored. In this article, we'll take you on a culinary journey through the city's best eats, from farm-to-table restaurants to hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up mouth-watering comfort food.

Kinston's proximity to the Neuse River and its fertile farmland make it an ideal location for growing a wide range of crops, including tobacco, cotton, and pecans. The city's agricultural heritage has had a lasting impact on its cuisine, with many local chefs incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients into their dishes. Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern comfort food or something more adventurous, Kinston's diverse dining scene has something for everyone.

Restaurant Row: A Hub for Foodies

Downtown Kinston's Restaurant Row is a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast. This charming stretch of Highway 11 is lined with a diverse range of eateries, each offering a unique take on traditional Southern cuisine. From the fried chicken and waffles at Brown's Chicken, to the wood-fired pizzas at Pizza my Heart, Restaurant Row is a place where you can indulge in a wide range of flavors and cuisines.

Top Picks on Restaurant Row

• Brown's Chicken: A Kinston institution since 1979, Brown's Chicken is a must-visit for fried chicken and waffles. Try the famous "Chicken 'n' Waffles" dish, made with crispy fried chicken served atop a fluffy waffle.
• Pizza my Heart: This popular pizzeria serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings, including fresh vegetables and meats.
• Riverlights: Located on the waterfront, Riverlights offers stunning views of the Neuse River while serving up classic American cuisine with a Southern twist.

Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Kinston's farm-to-table restaurants showcase the city's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Neuse River Greenway Trail, a 12-mile path that runs along the Neuse River, is also home to several farm-to-table restaurants, including The Greenway Grill and Newpots Pub.

Top Farm-to-Table Picks

• The Greenway Grill: Located on the Neuse River Greenway Trail, The Greenway Grill serves up seasonal small plates and entrees made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Newpots Pub: This cozy pub is known for its creative take on traditional pub fare, using fresh ingredients from local farmers and producers.
• Hard Times General Store: This family-owned general store and restaurant serves up Southern favorites like fried chicken, catfish, and burgers, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Hole-in-the-Wall Eats

Kinston's hole-in-the-wall eateries are a treasure trove of flavors and cuisines. From traditional Southern comfort food to international flavors, these hidden gems are a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

Top Hole-in-the-Wall Picks

• Moe's Fried Chicken: This unassuming eatery has been serving up crispy fried chicken since 1967. Don't be fooled by the humble exterior – the chicken is fried to perfection.
• Edna's Barbecue: This family-owned barbecue joint serves up tender, smoky meats and classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
• El Tico's Mexican Restaurant: For a taste of international cuisine, head to El Tico's, which serves up delicious Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and more.

Foodie Events and Festivals

Kinston's food scene is always buzzing with activity, thanks to the city's many foodie events and festivals. From the Kinston Food and Wine Festival to the Leland's Lavender Festival, there's always something delicious happening in Kinston.

Upcoming Foodie Events

• Kinston Food and Wine Festival: This annual festival celebrates the city's culinary heritage with food, wine, and live music.
• Leland's Lavender Festival: This popular festival features lavender-themed foods, drinks, and activities, all set amidst the beautiful Leland Lavender farm.
• Kinston's First Fridays: Every first Friday of the month, downtown Kinston hosts a foodie-friendly event with live music, food samples, and special deals at local restaurants and shops.

Conclusion

Kinston, NC, is a foodie's paradise waiting to be explored. From traditional Southern cuisine to modern twists on classic dishes, this charming city has something for every palate and preference. Whether you're in the mood for farm-to-table cuisine, hole-in-the-wall eats, or world-class fine dining, Kinston's diverse dining scene has something for everyone. So come and discover the hidden gem of Eastern North Carolina – your taste buds will thank you!