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Taste the Flavors of Kinston: A Local's Guide to the Best Food Spots

Hello families, welcome to Kinston, NC! As a proud local of this charming town, I would like to share with you one of the best aspects of our community - the food. Kinston may be a small town, but it is known as the "Festival City" and has a thriving food scene that is sure to satisfy every member of the family. So grab your appetites and let's take a tour of the best food spots in Kinston!

Farm-to-Table Delights at Chef and the Farmer

If you're looking for a true taste of Kinston, look no further than Chef and the Farmer. This farm-to-table restaurant is owned by James Beard award-winning chef, Vivian Howard, who is also the star of the hit show "A Chef's Life." The menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced ingredients, making each dish a culinary masterpiece. Don't miss their must-try dish, the fried green tomatoes topped with pimento cheese and country ham. Pro tip: make a reservation in advance, as this popular spot fills up quickly.

Experience Southern Comfort at Mother Earth Brewing

For the adults in the family, Mother Earth Brewing offers a unique and delicious experience. As the first wind-powered brewery in North Carolina, this establishment is all about sustainability. Not to mention, their beer is top-notch. I highly recommend trying their made-in-house root beer for the kids and their popular Weeping Willow Wit for the beer lovers. They also offer tours of the brewery, so you can learn about their process and try different samples.

Experience the Best of both Worlds at Chef and the Farmer's Boiler Room

Another gem from Chef Vivian Howard, the Boiler Room is located right beside Chef and the Farmer. This casual eatery offers classic southern comfort food with a twist. The must-try dish here is their famous mac and cheese, made with locally sourced cheddar and bacon. The Boiler Room also has a great selection of craft beer and cocktails, making it a perfect spot for happy hour with the family.

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth at the Sugar Hill Pizzeria

No vacation is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Head to Sugar Hill Pizzeria for some of the best desserts in town. From handcrafted gelato to decadent cakes and pastries, you'll find it all here. They also have an extensive menu with delicious wood-fired pizzas, perfect for a family lunch or dinner. Don't forget to try their homemade cannoli, a local favorite.

Fall in Love with Southern BBQ at King's Restaurant

You can't visit Kinston without trying some authentic southern BBQ. And when it comes to BBQ, King's Restaurant is the place to be. This family-owned establishment has been serving up delicious BBQ since the 1930s. Their slow-cooked pork is a must-try, along with their famous signature sauce. They also have a variety of sides to choose from, including hush puppies and sweet potato casserole.

Kinston has so much more to offer in terms of food, but these are just a few of my personal favorites. So come on over and discover the flavors of Kinston for yourself. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Happy eating!