Milner’s American Southern: A Heartfelt Taste of Home in Winston‑Salem

A Family-Born Culinary Dream

When Wendy teamed up with her chef‑graduate husband Buddy and his brother John after years working in the restaurant industry in Charleston, SC, the goal was clear: bring their passion for Southern cuisine closer to family and community. It wasn’t a matter of if they would open a restaurant together—it was when and where.

With deep roots in Winston‑Salem from chefs Buddy and John’s childhood ties, the trio chose to make a real splash here over 20 years ago.

Their vision? A place where ownership and chef-driven passion shine through every dish.

Since opening in 2005, Milner’s American Southern has been a testament to that dream: owner-led with the Milners personally in the kitchen and dining room daily, their presence and oversight elevate both the food and service—making it a true Southern experience through and through.

Southern Classics with a Contemporary Twist

Though the menu has remained largely intact since day one, favorites like the Moravian Cookie-Pecan Crusted Salmon, Lowcountry-style shrimp & grits, and their signature lump crab cakes continue to win hearts. The owners pride consistent quality: “we use the best quality beef … our steaks and our pork chops.” Their buttermilk fried chicken—served with Carolina Gold rice, collard greens, and tomato gravy—is a true Southern comfort classic. And the mac & cheese? It’s creamy, golden, and has a surprise flavor you must experience for yourself.

But the depth of the menu doesn’t stop there. Guests rave about the sautéed shrimp and gnocchi, parmesan-crusted trout, and standout specials like the overnight pot roast. Appetizers like fried green tomatoes with basil boursin cheese and sesame-seared rare tuna blend Southern soul with modern flavor. For heartier appetites, the black spice grilled pork chop, filet mignon with demi-glace, and house-ground Angus burger topped with pimento cheese hit the mark. Each dish, perfectly presented as well.

It’s hard to stray once you’ve found a favorite. As Wendy noted, “people come in with the intention of trying this or that, but a lot of times they end up turning to their favorite dishes.” Milner’s delivers comfort food that’s been elevated—Southern staples, refined by chef expertise, high-quality ingredients, and over 20 years of consistency.

A Warm, Inviting Atmosphere

Stepping into Milner’s feels like being welcomed into an elegant Southern home—one where comfort and sophistication meet. The dining room balances casual charm with polished details: warm wood tones, soft lighting, and a layout that invites conversation. It’s the kind of place where guests linger over a glass of wine, couples celebrate anniversaries, and families gather to mark life’s milestones.

On any given night, you might catch live jazz or see a chef emerge from the kitchen to check in on guests—little touches that make the experience personal and memorable. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive evening out, Milner’s sets the tone for connection and celebration.

In addition to their celebrated dinner service, Milner’s offers a Sunday brunch that blends Southern comfort with creative twists—think fried oysters on grits, fennel apple salads, and their signature crab cakes reimagined for mid-day dining.

Customer Love & Community Roots

Patrons frequently praise the warm, personal touch of the Milners themselves.

You’ll hear warm and welcoming talk from the chefs as they personally deliver food to the table and encourage family and friends to: “enjoy each other’s company”—a small gesture that captures the caring spirit of the whole team.

A Heart for the Winston‑Salem Community

From day one, the Milners committed to investing in their hometown. Wendy shared how they engaged local business owners—from insurance agents to payroll specialists—to help launch the restaurant, giving family and community members ownership in their success.

Their generosity continues today: Milner’s regularly donates gift cards to nonprofits, sponsors silent auctions, and supports causes like Alzheimer’s and autism organizations like NC ABC school. It’s more than business—it’s family giving back.

Beyond the Dining Room: Catering with Heart and Hospitality

While Milner’s is a go-to spot for evening dining, their catering services bring the same warmth, attention to detail, and signature Southern flavors to events throughout Winston‑Salem.

Whether it’s an elegant wedding reception, a cozy in-home celebration, or a meaningful corporate gathering, the Milners make sure every catered event feels like an extension of their dining room—just with a different backdrop.

Since they’re closed for lunch, the team focuses fully on curating unforgettable evening experiences. From the first planning call to the last plate served, clients work directly with the owners or their trusted staff, making each event feel personal and seamless.

The Milners have long-standing relationships with venues like The Barn at Reynolda Village, where they’re a preferred vendor, and are frequently called on for everything from rehearsal dinners to retirement parties.

With dishes like shrimp & grits served in elegant cocktail portions, tender filet with demi-glace, or rich tomato gravy over fried chicken, Milner’s brings its signature cuisine to life in both intimate and large-scale settings. Many clients even opt for pick-up catering for home-hosted events, trusting the restaurant’s consistent quality and thoughtful presentation.

What sets Milner’s apart isn’t just the food—it’s the feeling. Clients often describe the experience as “gracious,” “professional,” and “low-stress,” thanks to the Milners’ hands-on approach and decades of hospitality experience.

Whether you’re planning a milestone moment or simply want to treat guests to something exceptional, Milner’s delivers with heart, heritage, and hospitality that lingers long after the last bite.

Why You Should Visit (or Cater!) at Milner’s

Milner’s American Southern is more than a restaurant—it’s a piece of Winston‑Salem’s soul. Founded by three devoted Milners, it’s rooted in family love, local pride, and a commitment to serve home-style Southern food with refinement. Whether you’re savoring fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits, celebrating a milestone, or booking a catered event, you’re part of something far greater: a community legacy of warmth, flavor, and family.

So reserve your table or let Milner’s cater your next gathering. You’ll taste the care, authenticity, and Southern spirit that have made it a Winston‑Salem institution since 2005. Milner’s American Southern Restaurant and Catering is open Tuesday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Friday and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 1:45 PM for brunch and again from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. They are closed on Mondays.

So reserve your table or let Milner’s cater your next gathering. You’ll taste the care, authenticity, and Southern spirit that have made it a Winston‑Salem institution since 2005.