Don Express

Are you a North Carolina local yearning for a taste of authentic Japan without leaving Winston-Salem? Look no further than Don Express, a culinary treasure that consistently earns rave reviews for its genuine Japanese street food. This isn't your typical sushi or hibachi spot; Don Express dives deep into the heart of Japanese comfort food, offering dishes that transport diners directly to the bustling streets of Tokyo.

What sets Don Express apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and flavor. Many loyal customers, some even driving over half an hour, attest to the unparalleled taste and quality of their food. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of this local family business, which prides itself on making every dish "with love." From savory rice bowls to crispy takoyaki, each bite promises a truly unique and satisfying experience that has garnered immense respect from the community.

If you're debating where to get your next Japanese meal in the Winston-Salem area, the resounding advice from locals is clear: "DON'T debate. Choose Don Express." This sentiment highlights not just the deliciousness of the food, but also the friendly staff, consistently fast service, and generous portion sizes that make every visit a worthwhile investment. It's a must-visit for anyone in North Carolina seeking a genuine taste of Japan.

Don Express is conveniently situated at 472 Knollwood St, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA. This address places it within easy reach for residents across Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas of North Carolina. Knollwood Street is a well-known thoroughfare, making the restaurant simple to locate whether you're coming from nearby neighborhoods or driving in from further out.

The area around Knollwood Street typically offers accessible parking options, which contributes to a hassle-free dining experience. Its central location in Winston-Salem means it's a convenient stop for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a leisurely meal with friends. For those who rely on ride-sharing services or public transportation, the address is straightforward for navigation.

The accessibility of Don Express is a significant advantage for North Carolina locals, ensuring that a craving for authentic Japanese street food can be satisfied without extensive travel or complicated directions. Its presence in this vibrant part of Winston-Salem further solidifies its role as a beloved local eatery.

Don Express focuses on providing an authentic and efficient dining experience with a variety of services, primarily centered around its delicious Japanese street food. Here’s what you can expect:

• Dine-In Service: Don Express offers a casual dining experience. While the indoor space might be quaint with a few tables, they have an outdoor patio area (which is being covered for added comfort) that provides additional seating, weather permitting. This "fast casual" style means you order at the front and your food is brought to your table.
• Takeout Service: For those on the go or preferring to dine at home, Don Express offers robust takeout options. You can place orders for pickup, and their service is consistently fast, ensuring minimal wait times.
• Online Ordering & Delivery: Don Express is available for delivery through popular platforms such as Uber Eats and DoorDash, offering a convenient way for locals to enjoy their authentic Japanese dishes from the comfort of their homes.
• Extensive Authentic Menu: Their menu is packed with authentic Japanese specialties beyond typical sushi, including popular items like:
  • Donburi (Rice Bowls): Such as Yakiniku Don, Cha-Shu Don, Katsu Don, Mabo Don, and Karaage Don.
  • Noodle Dishes: Including Yakisoba and Tonkotsu Ramen.
  • Japanese Street Food: Highlights include Takoyaki (fried octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and Omusubi (Japanese rice balls with various fillings like salmon, tuna mayo, or karaage).
  • Appetizers: A selection of starters like Gyoza, JFC (Japanese Fried Chicken/Karaage), Seaweed Salad, Kimchi, Shumai, and Kani Croquette.
  • Curry Dishes: Notably, Katsu Curry.
  • Bento Boxes: Traditional Japanese meal sets with assortments of favorable items, such as Karaage Bento Box and Katsu Bento Box.
• Family-Owned Business: As a family-owned and operated establishment with roots in Tokyo, Japan, Don Express brings a genuine touch to its food and service, contributing to a welcoming and authentic atmosphere.

Don Express stands out in the Winston-Salem culinary scene with several distinctive features and highlights that have earned it a devoted following among North Carolina locals:

• Authentic Japanese Street Food: This is the paramount highlight. Don Express prides itself on offering truly authentic Japanese street food, often praised as "THE BEST authentic Japanese food" in or near the Winston-Salem area. It's a place to find dishes like takoyaki, yakiniku don, and okonomiyaki, which are less common at standard Japanese restaurants in the US.
• Highly Recommended Dishes: Specific dishes consistently receive glowing recommendations from customers. The Yakiniku Don, Yakisoba, Takoyaki, and Rice Balls are frequently cited as "mandatory" or "amazing." This guidance from fellow locals makes it easy for new visitors to choose confidently from the extensive menu.
• Friendly Staff and Fast Service: Diners consistently commend the friendly staff and the consistently fast service. This creates a pleasant and efficient dining experience, whether you're dining in or picking up a takeout order.
• Generous Portion Sizes: Customers often note the large and satisfying portion sizes. This provides excellent value for money, making each dish feel substantial and well worth the price. As one review states, "you get what you pay for here."
• Family Business with a "Made with Love" Touch: Being a local family-owned business with roots in Tokyo, Don Express brings a personal and passionate touch to its cooking. This dedication is often cited as a reason for the food's exceptional flavor and the overall welcoming atmosphere.
• Unique Menu Items: Beyond the popular dishes, Don Express offers items like "Katsu Curry," "Tonkotsu Ramen," and various "Donburi" (rice bowls) that provide a deeper dive into Japanese culinary traditions not always found elsewhere in the region.
• Dedicated Local Following: The restaurant has cultivated a strong and loyal local following, with customers willing to drive significant distances to enjoy their food, underscoring its reputation and unique appeal.

While specific daily or weekly "specials" in the traditional sense (like happy hour discounts or recurring themed nights) are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, Don Express's core offering itself acts as a significant value proposition for locals in North Carolina.

The "generous portion sizes" consistently mentioned in customer reviews, combined with the "authentic" and "made with love" quality, mean that diners feel they are getting excellent value for their money with every order. The perception that "you get what you pay for here" suggests that the inherent quality and quantity of their dishes are a continuous promotion in themselves.

For the most up-to-date information on any potential rotating specials, seasonal menu additions, or limited-time offers, it's always best for North Carolina locals to directly visit the Don Express website or contact the restaurant via phone. Local businesses often announce such promotions on their social media channels or in-store, providing direct benefits to their loyal customers.

For inquiries, to place an order for takeout, or to learn more about Don Express, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 472 Knollwood St, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA

Phone: (336) 842-3008

Mobile Phone: +1 336-842-3008

Don Express also has an online presence where you can view their full menu and potentially order online for pickup or delivery through various platforms. Visiting their official website or checking their social media pages is recommended for the most current information regarding their operating hours (which are typically Tuesday-Thursday 11 AM - 8 PM, Friday & Saturday 11 AM - 9 PM, and Sunday 12 PM - 7 PM; closed Mondays) and any specific updates on their services.

For residents across North Carolina, especially those in Winston-Salem and beyond, Don Express offers a truly compelling and unique dining proposition that makes it highly suitable for locals. Unlike many Japanese restaurants that focus primarily on sushi or hibachi, Don Express provides an authentic dive into the world of Japanese street food and comfort dishes. This distinct offering allows locals to explore a broader and more genuine side of Japanese cuisine right in their hometown.

The enthusiastic endorsements from customers, some willing to travel significant distances, underscore the exceptional quality and flavor that Don Express consistently delivers. Phrases like "THE BEST authentic Japanese food" and "transports you to Japan with every bite" are not just idle compliments; they speak to the restaurant's ability to create a truly immersive and satisfying culinary experience. The friendly staff, fast service, and generous portion sizes further enhance the dining experience, making it both enjoyable and great value for money.

As a family-owned business, Don Express also embodies the spirit of supporting local establishments, contributing to the vibrant community of Winston-Salem. It's a place where every dish is "made with love," fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. For North Carolina locals seeking genuine flavors, excellent service, and a memorable meal that feels like a discovery, Don Express is undoubtedly a top recommendation and a true local gem.

Don Express

472 Knollwood St, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, USA