‘More than a restaurant.’ This NC cafeteria is closing all locations after 88 years
After more than eight decades of feeding North Carolina, K&W Cafeterias announced Monday that all remaining locations were permanently closed, provoking an online outpouring of grief for the loss of its pies, baked spaghetti and other comfort food classics.
The Winston-Salem-based cafeteria chain had been in business since 1937. The closure follows the loss of other longtime restaurants in recent years, including Charlotte’s Bar-B-Q King, open since 1959.
A post on Facebook said: “It is with a heavy heart that we share this news. After serving our communities for over 88 years, K&W Cafeterias will be closing all doors effective immediately. “K&W has always been more than a restaurant — it has been a gathering place, a home for Sunday traditions, and a warm table for millions of families across generations. We are deeply grateful for every guest who walked through our doors, shared a meal with us, and made us part of their lives,” the message continued.
Jaylan Connell from Greensboro was among the customers to respond to the post, sharing: “I ate there a lot as a kid in the ’60s and ’70s. Remember the long line, the Jello, and the best chicken and dumplings ever.”
“I used to go to K&W after every Thanksgiving parade with my family,” Niya Kerr of Charlotte wrote. “Thank you for all the memories and I need the recipe to the chocolate pudding!”
K&W’s Instagram profile said the restaurant had eight remaining locations in North Carolina — including Concord, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Raleigh and Burlington — along with one in Virginia.
The Facebook post thanked customers “for being part of the K&W family.”
“Your support, your stories, and your loyalty over the decades have meant more to us than words can express. We are truly sorry to bring this chapter to an end, but profoundly thankful for the love you’ve shown us for nearly nine decades. From our family to yours — thank you,” it said.
More than 450 people had commented within an hour, sharing warm remembrances — along with their favorite menu items.
“The best baked spaghetti ever,” Erika Hamilton of Raleigh said.
“So many memories,” Jaime McDonald said. “As a kid, I ate at the K&W at the Concord Mall every weekend with my grandma.”
Renee Culp Rowland of Concord shared: “Thanks for all the many, many meals I have eaten there and the many I have ordered as take out. K&W will be missed!!!”
K&W Cafeteria
Location: 2629 Ramada Rd, Burlington, NC 27215
Location: 349 Copperfield Blvd NE, Concord, NC 28025
Location: 3200 Northline Ave, Greensboro, NC 27408
Location: 3710 S Holden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406
Location: 3620 Bastion Ln, Raleigh, NC 27604
Location: 3300 Healy Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Location: 800 E Hanes Mill Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
This story was originally published December 1, 2025 at 2:50 PM with the headline "‘More than a restaurant.’ This NC cafeteria is closing all locations after 88 years."
