While many choose a restaurant based on how delicious the food is, another important factor is the ambiance. Just like service, a stellar or less-than-stellar atmosphere can make or break your experience. One certain restaurant located in Winston-Salem has mastered the concept of both fine food and finer ambiance. While not a 'forest' per se, you'll feel like you were transported into a magical woodland while dining at Ryan's Restaurant - Steaks-Chops & Seafood. You're going to love experiencing this restaurant in the woods in North Carolina. Scroll on to learn more.

Since 1977, Ryan's has offered Piedmont Triad residents an escape from the day-to-day and a romantic dining experience.

The restaurant offers panoramic views of large oaks. On warm spring and summer days, the large 'starlight deck' is perfect for sipping cocktails and enjoying a five-star meal.

Depending on your location in the restaurant, you also might be treated to views of the large stream nestled amongst the trees.

It's easy to see why Ryan's is one of the most romantic restaurants in North Carolina. It doesn't get more tranquil than this!

If you're looking for beautiful restaurants in North Carolina, no place is better than Ryan's.

Nothing really 'starts small' here. Even the appetizers entice you to enjoy the food, the view, and your night out.

Starters include steamed mussels in garlic butter and the perfect date night aphrodisiac: Oysters Rockefeller. Entrees range from Maine lobster, an 8 or 10 oz. filet, aged C.A.B. 14 oz. New York Strip, and 8 oz. Steak Au Poivre. Both classic and seasonal dishes infuse the dining experience with something different time-and-time again. With shrimp and grits, Chilean sea bass, and New Zealand racks of lamb, Ryan's Restaurant really has something for everyone.

Throughout the years Ryan's has received both local and national awards.

The restaurant with a view has been the consistent winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and Winston-Salem Journal's Readers Choice Award for Best Steak, Best Fine Dining and Best Restaurant with a View.

Come and experience one of the most romantic restaurants in North Carolina!

Open Monday-Saturday, Ryan's also allows a bit more casual dress (no coat and tie required) which is a relief because you'll probably be a bit full after dining here. Attended for every occasion from a fancy Friday night to graduation, anniversaries and birthdays, Ryan's offers a cozy, wooded main dining room along with private room and event space that all maintain that amazing view.

You'll find Ryan's at 719 Coliseum Drive

Winston-Salem, NC 27106. To learn more, visit their website here.

As someone who has dined here for my own special occasions, I must say nothing really compares to both the food and ambiance you'll get at Ryan's. While Winston-Salem is already a fairly 'very green' city, this puts you right in the middle of the action with a restaurant in the woods in North Carolina.

Have you experienced the magic of Ryan's Restaurant yet? What are your favorite beautiful restaurants in North Carolina?

For another 'staple' steakhouse, visit this timeless restaurant in the Triangle.