Fiddlin' Fish Brewing Company

In the heart of the industrial district of Winston-Salem lies a cozy and unique spot — Fiddlin' Fish Brewing Company. This independent, family-owned business has been delighting locals and visitors to the USA since 2017 with high-quality craft beer inspired by the beauty of nature and the spirit of mountain music.

The brewery is located in a converted old market building, which gives it a distinct industrial charm. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, featuring high ceilings, an open view of the brewing tanks, and a spacious taproom with large garage doors that open onto a covered patio during good weather.

One of the interior's main highlights is a giant mural created by a local artist, which emphasizes the brewery's connection to the region's culture. This is more than just a bar; it is a cultural space where modern design meets the traditions of North Carolina, creating the perfect setting to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

To inquire about availability or to host a private event, we recommend contacting the management in advance. This is especially true for large groups planning a visit on weekends when the venue can get crowded.

Below are the main contact details to help you plan your visit:

The primary activity here is, of course, exploring the extensive craft beer menu. Visitors are invited to try both year-round classics and experimental new releases. We recommend trying the Ardmore Amber with its soft caramel notes or the rich Black Mountain Chocolate Stout, brewed with real cocoa.

For those who want variety, "flights" — sets of several small pours of different beers — are available. Additionally, you can always find a great snack to pair with your drink: popular local food trucks are regularly stationed at the entrance. You can find everything from authentic tacos from Taqueria Luciano’s to exquisite French dishes, making every visit a unique gastronomic experience.

Inside the brewery, everything is set up for social interaction. Guests can enjoy a free collection of board games, relax on the patio for a chat, or cheer for their favorite team — the hall features eight large TVs and a massive projection screen. It’s an ideal spot for both lively groups and those looking for a quiet evening watching the brewing process through the glass partitions.

Located in the heart of the Industry Hill neighborhood, the brewery is situated at 772 Trade St NW. It is easy to find by looking for the Big Winston Warehouse complex, a prominent landmark in downtown Winston-Salem. For travelers arriving by car, there are parking areas nearby, though they can fill up quickly in the evenings.

For those who prefer public transportation, city buses serving the central districts stop within walking distance. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, a walk to the brewery along the lively Trade Street or Marshall Street is a pleasant addition to the evening, offering a chance to see other interesting spots along the way.

Tourists arriving via Piedmont Triad International (GSO) airport can reach the location in about 30–40 minutes by taxi or rental car. Using Uber or Lyft is also a popular and convenient way to quickly get to the brewery from anywhere in the city.

The establishment opened its doors to visitors in 2017, settling in the historic building of the former Big Winston open-air market. The founders are members of the same family — cousins Stuart Barnhart and David Ash, along with Stuart's wife, Lindsey. They were united by the desire to create more than just a bar, but a true community where everyone feels at home.

The project's name is rooted in the founders' personal memories of summer vacations in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hiking through forests, fishing, and the sounds of traditional mountain music formed the basis of the "Fiddlin' Fish" concept. This name symbolizes the harmony between nature, creativity, and a love for high-quality brews.

The brewery's interior also preserves a piece of regional history. For example, the taproom windows offer a view of the brewhouse, which sits adjacent to elements of the old Nissen Wagon Works factory. The walls are adorned with a massive mural by local artist Hieronymus, depicting a colorful minstrel with a guitar and a giant fish, which has become the symbol of the venue.

Over the years, the brewery has become a key spot on the map of the Industry Hill district. It actively collaborates with other local producers — for instance, using cocoa nibs from their neighbors at Black Mountain Chocolate to create unique stouts — highlighting the family business's commitment to local traditions.

Guests typically spend between 1 to 3 hours visiting this spot. This is plenty of time to leisurely try several varieties from a tasting flight, enjoy a meal from the nearby food trucks, and soak in the overall atmosphere.

If you plan to visit during a major sports broadcast or a live music night, you may want to set aside a bit more time. The spacious patio and the collection of board games make it a perfect place for a long, relaxed hangout with friends.

The brewery is open to guests daily, though the hours vary depending on the day of the week. From Monday to Thursday, it typically welcomes visitors from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, hours are extended until 11:00 PM, and on Sundays, the bar closes a bit earlier, at 8:00 PM.

Since operating hours may change due to holidays or private events, we highly recommend checking the official website or the establishment's social media pages before your visit.

Its location in the historic city center makes it easy to combine a craft beer tasting with sightseeing. A stroll through the surrounding area will reveal different sides of the city, from its industrial past to charming museum districts.

Exploring the neighborhood on foot is particularly interesting, as many iconic sites are within a couple of kilometers. Here is a list of notable attractions to visit nearby: