Nestled in the heart of Winston-Salem’s Innovation Quarter — an eight-minute trip on the Wake Line from campus — Cugino Forno marries old-world Italian charm with a lively, modern atmosphere.
Located on the first floor of the historic Bailey Power Plant, the 5,800-square-foot space takes on an industrial-chic vibe — vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls, and the soft hum of conversation from families and friends sharing slices of authentic, Neapolitan pizza.
I visited Cuginos (for the umpteenth time) on Wednesday, Jan. 29, for a sorority dinner. We chose Cugino because the atmosphere is fun and eclectic, the menu and drinks are affordable and they have a vegan option — as I am dairy-free and pescatarian.
Cugino Forno operates on a simple, streamlined system: order at the counter, then settle in at one of the large communal tables. The menu is refreshingly straightforward, allowing the food and ingredients to speak for themselves. For those who enjoy a drink with their meal, the restaurant serves a wide selection of wine and beer.
For those seeking a meal that aligns with plant-based eating, Cugino Forno’s menu offers a rare find in the world of traditional pizzerias: the marinara pizza.
Featuring San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh garlic, and oregano, the deceptively plain pizza was bursting with flavor. The chewy, slightly charred crust — baked to perfection in their 900-degree oven imported from Naples — complements the rich, tangy tomato sauce and aromatic garlic. It was proof that great pizza doesn’t need cheese to be memorable.
It’s a small, but significant, nod to inclusivity in an industry that often overlooks dietary diversity.
As someone who values sustainable and ethical food choices, I was heartened to see how Cugino Forno bridges tradition with modern dietary preferences. Though well-steeped in the history of Neapolitan pizza, the restaurant remains forward-thinking in its offerings and approach to community dining.
In addition to the incredible pizza, the restaurant’s atmosphere is wonderful for group dinners. A warm blend of a family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant energy, Cugino Forno feels like a community hub. The restaurant offers plenty of seating, including outdoor tables, that make the most of its Innovation Quarter location.
At its core, Cugino Forno is a testament to the power of tradition and quality. Founded by three cousins — Joseph, Yilmaz, and Adam — who grew up in Turkey, the restaurant is rooted in their deep appreciation for the craft of Neapolitan pizza. After spending time in Naples learning from master pizzaiolos, the trio returned to the U.S. with a mission to bring authentic Italian pizza to the Southeast.
“Pizza is more than a meal. It’s an art and a way of life for us,” said the cousins in a statement on their website. “We take pride in our craftsmanship, attention to detail, quality ingredients, and personal connection with each and every one of you.”
Their commitment to authenticity is evident in every detail. Close to 80% of the ingredients are imported directly from Italy. Even the ovens contain stone from Mount Vesuvius, a nod to the origins of Neapolitan pizza.
Cugino Forno’s dedication to quality has resonated with the community since the opening of its Winston-Salem location in 2019. The space not only preserves the industrial charm of the Bailey Power Plant but also transforms it into a gathering place where stories are shared over slices.
So, whether you’re a pizza purist, a vegan foodie or simply someone who enjoys a good meal in a great setting, Cugino Forno is well worth the visit. From the first bite to the last, the restaurant delivers on its promise to wow — through food, ambiance, and hospitality.
If you haven’t stopped by yet, consider making the short walk from Wake Downtown to Innovation Quarter. You’ll leave not just with a full stomach, but with a newfound appreciation for the craft and care that go into every pizza.
