Tavern in Old Salem sold; to be renovated and reopened

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) — There has been a major development in the future of an iconic landmark restaurant in Winston-Salem.

The Tavern in Old Salem restaurant property is being sold by Old Salem, Inc. to a subsidiary of RSJ Properties.

The restaurant has been vacant since Dec. 31, 2019, when it closed its doors.

Old Salem, Inc. says that the new owners plan to renovate and open a new Old Salem Restaurant.

Almost weekly I get asked when will the tavern restaurant reopen” said Terry Taylor, President & CEO of Old Salem, Inc “. Since 1968 it has been the favorite local restaurant destination for a special historic dining experience for locals and guests and for monumental occasions such as birthdays, engagements, anniversaries, graduation celebrations, etc. It is just fun to step back in time and eat there.”

Taylor went on to describe the challenges Old Salem has had with reopening the tavern.

“Old Salem’s post Covid re-opening has been challenging and taken longer than anticipated, but we have worked diligently with one of the last pieces being the Tavern Restaurant. Its closure prompted Old Salem to look at new possibilities to achieve a positive outcome and, in the end, the Old Salem Board of Trustees decided that getting out of the restaurant leasing business and selling the property to an expert in the field would be the best possible outcome.

Terry Taylor, President & CEO of Old Salem, Inc

RSJ Properties is a family-owned real estate investment that bases its operation out of Charlotte. Old Salem says the renovation process will adhere to Historic Resources Commission rules and regulations.

The renovation will also add all new kitchen equipment and feature upgrades to the outdoor dining area as well as parking.

“We are honored that Old Salem, Inc. has entrusted our company to bring The Old Salem Tavern, a landmark restaurant, back, to serve the patrons of Old Salem and the Winston-Salem Community,” said Bob Sweeney, president of RJS Properties, Inc. “Our goal is to preserve the Moravian history and traditions of this historic restaurant, while providing a superb lunch and dinner menu and experience.”

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